Planning to take the IELTS exam in Saudi Arabia? Understanding the test fees, payment options, and registration process is essential before you book your slot. Whether you’re aiming to study abroad, migrate to an English-speaking country, or apply for a UK visa, this guide covers everything you need to know about IELTS costs in the Kingdom.
How Much Does IELTS Cost in Saudi Arabia?
The IELTS test fee in Saudi Arabia is standardized across all major test centers, including Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, and other cities. All prices include VAT (Value Added Tax) and are payable in Saudi Riyals (SAR).
Here’s the current fee structure for 2026:
| Test Type | Fee (SAR) |
|---|---|
| IELTS Academic (Paper or Computer) | SAR 1,636 |
| IELTS General Training (Paper or Computer) | SAR 1,636 |
| IELTS for UKVI (Computer-delivered) | SAR 1,744 |
| IELTS Life Skills (A1 and B1) | SAR 897 |
| IELTS One Skill Retake | SAR 1,099 |
| Enquiry on Results (Remark) | SAR 500 |
The fee is identical whether you choose IELTS Academic or General Training, and whether you prefer the paper-based or computer-delivered format.
Note: Fees may change periodically. Always verify the current fee on the official British Council or IDP website before registering.
IELTS Test Types Explained
Before booking your test, make sure you understand which type of IELTS you need.
IELTS Academic is designed for those applying to universities, colleges, or professional registration in English-speaking countries. Most higher education institutions in the UK, Australia, Canada, the USA, and New Zealand require this version.
IELTS General Training is intended for people planning to migrate for work or settle in countries like Australia, Canada, New Zealand, or the UK. It’s also suitable for those applying for secondary education or training programs.
IELTS for UKVI (UK Visas and Immigration) is a Secure English Language Test (SELT) approved by UK Visas and Immigration. If you need a visa to study, work, or settle in the United Kingdom, this is the version you’ll likely need. It’s important to note that the British Council no longer offers IELTS for UKVI on paper in Saudi Arabia—only the computer-delivered format is available.
IELTS Life Skills tests speaking and listening skills only and is accepted as proof of English proficiency for certain UK visa categories.
What’s Included in Your IELTS Test Fee?
When you pay the IELTS test fee through the British Council, your registration includes several valuable extras:
- IELTS Ready Premium access with 40 free practice tests and preparation lessons
- Five additional Test Report Forms (TRFs) sent directly to institutions of your choice at no extra cost
- Access to online preparation materials and resources
- One official Test Report Form
These inclusions make the British Council registration particularly valuable for serious test-takers who want comprehensive preparation support.
Where Can You Take IELTS in Saudi Arabia?
Saudi Arabia has an extensive network of IELTS test centers spread across the Kingdom. The British Council operates 12 official test locations, while IDP also runs several centers in major cities.
Computer-delivered IELTS is available in:
- Riyadh
- Jeddah
- Dammam
- Al Khobar
Computer-based tests offer high availability with sessions often running daily, and results are delivered within 3-5 calendar days.
Paper-based IELTS is offered in these cities:
- Riyadh
- Jeddah
- Dammam
- Al-Hassa
- Buraydah
- Hail
- Jubail
- Madinah
- Makkah
- Tabuk
- Taif
Paper-based tests have limited dates (typically up to four times per month), and results take 13 calendar days.
Computer-Delivered vs Paper-Based IELTS: Which Should You Choose?
Both formats cost the same (SAR 1,636), so your choice depends on other factors.
| Feature | Paper-Based | Computer-Delivered |
|---|---|---|
| Test Fee | SAR 1,636 | SAR 1,636 |
| Results Timing | 13 calendar days | 3-5 calendar days |
| Test Availability | Limited (up to 4 times/month) | High (often daily) |
| Test Locations | 11 cities | 4 cities (Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, Al Khobar) |
| Speaking Test | Face-to-face | Face-to-face |
The computer-delivered option is ideal if you need results quickly or prefer typing. The paper-based format suits those who are more comfortable writing by hand or live outside major cities.
Important Residency Rules for Paper-Based IELTS
A critical policy affects how non-Saudi nationals can book paper-based tests. If you’re not officially a resident of Saudi Arabia, you cannot sit an IELTS on paper test.
What this means:
- Non-Saudi nationals must provide proof of residence (valid Iqama, Student Visa, or Long-Stay Visa) that grants at least three consecutive months of stay
- The test center will contact you to request this documentation after booking
- Short-term visitors cannot take the paper-based test
The alternative: This residency requirement does not apply to computer-delivered IELTS. If you don’t meet the residency requirement, choose the computer-based format to avoid booking issues.
How to Register and Pay for IELTS in Saudi Arabia
Booking your IELTS test is straightforward. Here’s the process:
Step 1: Choose Your Test Type Decide whether you need Academic, General Training, or UKVI. Select your preferred format (computer or paper), keeping the residency rules in mind.
Step 2: Select Your Location and Date Pick your preferred city and an available test date. Computer-delivered tests offer more flexibility, while paper-based tests have fixed monthly dates.
Step 3: Register Online Visit the official British Council Saudi Arabia booking portal or the IDP registration website. You’ll need a valid ID—passport for all nationalities, or National ID card for Saudi nationals. Non-Saudi nationals must use their passport or Iqama.
Step 4: Pay the Fee The full fee must be paid at registration. Payment options include:
- Online payment via credit or debit card
- Bank transfer to the British Council account
- Some regional digital wallets may be accepted (confirm with your test center)
After payment, you’ll receive a confirmation email with your test details and an IELTS Reference Number to access the Candidate Portal.
IELTS One Skill Retake Option
Didn’t achieve your target score in just one section? The IELTS One Skill Retake (OSR) allows you to retake a single module—Listening, Reading, Writing, or Speaking—within 60 days of your original test.
Key details:
- Fee: SAR 1,099
- Available only for computer-delivered IELTS
- Must be taken within 60 days of your original test
- Check with your intended institution or visa authority to confirm they accept OSR results
This option can save both time and money compared to retaking the entire test.
What If You Need to Cancel or Reschedule?
Life happens, and sometimes plans change. Here’s what you need to know:
Cancellation policy:
- Cancel more than 35 days before your test date: Receive a refund minus a 10% administrative fee
- Cancel closer to the test date: Refunds are only available under exceptional circumstances (serious illness with medical certificate, etc.)
Rescheduling (Test Date Transfer):
- Request a transfer more than 35 calendar days before your test: No administrative fee
- Requests closer to the test date may incur fees or require supporting evidence
Always contact your test center as early as possible if you need to make changes.
How to Get Your IELTS Results
Results are made available through two channels:
Online preview: You can view your provisional results online through the British Council or IDP results portal.
Test Report Form (TRF): Your official TRF can be collected from the test center or sent by courier. Courier charges apply: SAR 50 within Saudi Arabia, SAR 150 for international delivery.
Results timing:
- Computer-delivered IELTS: 3-5 calendar days
- Paper-based IELTS: 13 calendar days
Requesting a Remark (Enquiry on Results)
Not satisfied with your score? You can apply for an Enquiry on Results (EOR), which means your test will be re-marked by a different examiner.
- Fee: SAR 500 – 600
- Deadline: Apply within six weeks of your test date
- Processing time: 6-8 weeks
- Refund: If any of your scores change, the EOR fee is fully refunded
You can choose which sections you want re-marked—you don’t have to request all four.
Tips to Save Money on Your IELTS Test
While the test fee is fixed, you can minimize overall costs with these strategies:
- Prepare thoroughly before booking – The better prepared you are, the less likely you’ll need to retake the test
- Use free preparation resources – The British Council provides IELTS Ready Premium free with your registration
- Consider the One Skill Retake – If you miss your target by a small margin in just one section, OSR costs less than a full retake
- Book early – Last-minute bookings may require travel to distant centers, adding transportation costs
- Choose a local test center – Testing in your city saves accommodation and travel expenses
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the IELTS fee the same across all cities in Saudi Arabia?
Yes. The test fee is standardized across all British Council test centers in the Kingdom—you’ll pay the same whether you test in Riyadh, Jeddah, or any other location.
Can someone else pay my IELTS fee?
Yes. A parent, friend, or sponsor can pay on your behalf. Just ensure the correct candidate name and passport number are used during registration.
Do I need my original passport or Iqama on test day?
Yes. You must bring the original physical ID document that you used when registering. Digital IDs and photocopies are not accepted.
How long is my IELTS score valid?
IELTS results are generally valid for two years from the test date. Some institutions may accept older scores, but most universities and immigration authorities require results within this two-year window.
Can I take IELTS without attending preparation classes?
Absolutely. Many candidates self-prepare using free online resources, official practice tests, and preparation books. However, structured coaching can help if you’re struggling with specific sections.
Final Thoughts
Taking the IELTS in Saudi Arabia is a significant step toward your academic or professional goals abroad. With test fees ranging from SAR 897 for Life Skills to SAR 1,744 for UKVI, understanding the cost structure helps you budget effectively.
Remember to verify current fees and test availability directly on the official British Council or IDP websites before registering, as prices and policies may change. Good luck with your IELTS journey!
Official Resources:
- British Council Saudi Arabia: saudiarabia.britishcouncil.org
- IDP IELTS Saudi Arabia: ielts.idp.com/saudiarabia