Can I Reschedule My IELTS Exam?

Student taking an exam

Yes, you can reschedule your IELTS exam at any time before the test date. Depending on how close the change is to the original, you may incur a fee ($80 to $120), or it may be handled as a cancellation. Contact your test centre to discuss your best options. 

You may have prepared for your IELTS exam months before, but life doesn’t always go according to plan. Maybe you’ve fallen ill, have an unexpected family emergency, or realized you need more time to prepare for the IELTS. Whatever the case, you may be wondering, “Can I reschedule my IELTS exam?” 

The answer is yes, you can. However, detailed policy terms vary per test centre location. If you’ve booked your test at one of ILAC’s official testing centres in Toronto or Vancouver, keep reading. We’ll explain how to reschedule, outline the costs, and assist you in any way you need.

Can I Postpone my IELTS Exam?

You can postpone your IELTS exam at any time before your test date, but conditions and fees depend on how much notice you provide your local test centre. Here’s how rescheduling (date transfer) works at ILAC’s IELTS Toronto and IELTS Vancouver test centres: 

Timeline Key Conditions Fees
14 or more days before the original test date – Transfer & cancellation allowed

– No evidence required. 

$80
Less than 14 days before test date (with evidence of severe emergency e.g., serious illness, bereavement, etc.) 

*Not allowed for personal or work schedule reasons. 

– Transfer allowed

– Cancellations are not permitted

– New test date must be within three months of the original test date

– Complete the form within two days of your original test date. 

$80
Less than 14 days before test day (without evidence) – Transfer only; no cancellations.

– Future test date must be within three months of the original test date. 

$120

Note: All evidence is reviewed individually. Documentation (e.g., original medical certificate) must be official, in English, untampered, and relevant to your test date. We verify authenticity directly with the issuing professional to ensure we’re maintaining fairness for all test-takers. 

Can I Reschedule My IELTS Exam One Day Before?

Yes, but only in exceptional circumstances or emergencies. Apply for Special Consideration by completing the Transfer Request Form. You’ll need to provide evidence of a genuine emergency within two days of your IELTS test date. 

If your application is approved, we’ll reschedule your test day to the next available test date. Please note that changes to your personal or work circumstances are not accepted as emergencies. 

Tip: If you’re unsure of your qualification, contact your IELTS test centre immediately, and our team will help guide you through the process.

Blocks spelling out IELTS on top of a piece of red paper above test answer sheets

Image Source: Shutterstock

Can I Get a Refund Instead of Rescheduling?

You can receive a refund (minus the $80 administration charge) if you choose to reschedule or cancel your IELTS test registration at least 14 days before the test date.

While we understand that unexpected situations arise, our policy is strict for last-minute changes. Cancellations made later than 14 days before the test are not eligible for a refund; however, we’ll do our best to accommodate your needs by transferring you to a new test date.

How to Reschedule IELTS Exam

To reschedule your IELTS test:

  • Complete the Transfer Request Form. You’ll be asked to provide your personal details, original schedule, preferred test date, and card details (for the transfer test fee)
  • Provide documentation (if available). For medical reasons, please attach your original medical certificate issued by a professional.
  • Receive confirmation. Once approved, you’ll receive a confirmation email with your updated test date, time, and location.
  • Review all details. If you have any questions or concerns at any point, please don’t hesitate to contact ILAC Toronto or ILAC Vancouver directly. We’re here to help!

How Much Does It Cost to Reschedule IELTS Exam?

Rescheduling administrative fees depends on when you make the change:

  • $80 if you reschedule 14 days or more before your test
  • $80 if you reschedule less than 14 days with original medical certificates or other valid documentation.
  • $120 if you reschedule less than 14 days without special circumstances or required documents.

How Many Times Can You Reschedule Your IELTS Test?

You can only transfer the same booking once. It’s the test taker’s responsibility to choose a new date carefully and ensure they can attend on that date. If you need to change your test date again, you would need to forfeit your current booking and register for a new test.

International students walking down the stairs

Image Source: Canva

What Happens If You’re Absent on Test Day?

If you don’t show up for your IELTS exam without prior notice, you will lose your full test fee. Unfortunately, we cannot offer refunds or transfers for no-shows. We urge IELTS test takers to provide as much notice as possible if you know you cannot attend, to explore your options.

Got more IELTS-related questions? Check out these resources

In Summary

  • You can reschedule your IELTS exam date at any time before your test date, but there are timelines, fees, and procedures to follow. Policy vary depending on the test centre.
  • At ILAC’s Toronto and Vancouver test centres, transfer fees range from $80 to $120, depending on timing and circumstances.
  • Reschedule 14+ days in advance for the lowest fee and most flexibility
  • Exceptional circumstances and medical emergencies require official documentation in English.
  • You can only transfer the same booking once.
  • Refunds (minus an $80 administration fee) are available for cancellations made 14 days or more in advance.
  • No-shows without prior notice forfeit the full test fee.
  • Get in touch with your IELTS test location as soon as you know you need to reschedule. We’re happy to walk you through your options!

Book Your IELTS Test in Toronto or Vancouver

“Can I reschedule my IELTS exam?” Yes, you can at ILAC! We strive to make the entire IELTS test experience, from preparation to results day, as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Our testing centres in Toronto and Vancouver offer regular test dates and supportive staff who understand the needs of international students. We also offer ILAC Preparation courses for young adults and adults to help you achieve your best score.

Contact us today to enrol in an IELTS program, book your test, or discuss your rescheduling options.

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