Key takeaways
- Schools set their own English requirements and many waive them for applicants whose degree was taught in English. Read the admissions page of each school.
- The IELTS test fee in India is INR 19,000 at IDP in 2026.
- IELTS Academic is the version business schools usually ask for.
- Practise all four modules with timed tests before you book.
An MBA application has many moving parts, and the English test is the easiest one to prepare for with a plan. This guide covers when you need IELTS, how to learn the exact score a school wants and how to prepare.
Do you need IELTS?
Schools usually ask for an English test from applicants whose first degree was not taught in English. Some accept a waiver if your degree was taught in English, and some accept other tests such as TOEFL. The rule belongs to each school, so read the English language page of your target programme and write down the accepted tests, the minimum overall score and any minimum per section.
Academic or General Training
Business schools normally ask for IELTS Academic. General Training is mainly used for migration and some work purposes. Our guide on Academic or General Training explains the difference, and the IELTS Academic page links to the right practice tests.
What IELTS costs in India
IDP lists INR 19,000 for IELTS on computer and for IELTS Writing on paper in 2026, with a one skill retake at INR 12,650. Rescheduling and enquiry on results fees are separate. Read the official page when you book, since prices can change. Our booking and cost guide explains the process.
How to prepare for each module
- Reading. Practise on timed passages and learn the question types. Start with our free Reading tests.
- Listening. Use Listening tests and review every mistake by replaying the audio.
- Writing. Write full Task 1 and Task 2 answers under time. Our Writing tests include study notes.
- Speaking. Record yourself, and use the Speaking flashcards for Parts 1, 2 and 3.
A four week plan
- Week 1: take a full test, mark it honestly and find the weakest module. Read how band scores work.
- Week 2: drill the weakest module daily, plus one timed section of each other module.
- Week 3: full timed tests twice a week, with careful review.
- Week 4: light practice, book your slot early and rest before the exam.
If you need more time, the 30 day IELTS plan goes day by day.
Timing with your MBA applications
Scores are usually valid for two years, but check the school rule. Book the test early enough that you can retake it before your application round if you need to. Then follow the 12 month timeline.
Fees change every year and each school sets its own. The figures here come from the schools' own pages and were checked in October 2026, so confirm them on the school site before you decide. This guide is for planning and is not an offer from any school.