IELTS in Canada 2026: Dates, Fees, and Express Entry Requirements

Unlike a single national price list, IELTS in Canada is delivered through a network of local test centres, and the fee varies slightly by city. Checked test-centre pages showed Ontario and Vancouver pricing around CAD 335 to 338 before tax, and Winnipeg around CAD 361 before tax; sales tax and a card-decline handling fee can add to the total.

These figures are a planning reference, not a replacement for checkout. Confirm the exact fee, tax and available format for your test centre in the official booking screen before paying.

ieltscanada.ca states that from 22 June 2026, all IELTS tests in Canada move to computer delivery, replacing paper-based testing. The change is presented as bringing faster results and more flexible scheduling.

If you are planning a test date near or after that transition, confirm with your chosen centre whether a computer session is already the only option in your city, since some centres moved earlier than others.

IRCC's official language-requirements page confirms it accepts three English tests for Express Entry: IELTS General Training, CELPIP General, and PTE Core. IELTS Academic is not one of the accepted Express Entry tests, so double-check you are booking General Training if immigration is your goal.

IRCC also states plainly that it does not accept IELTS One Skill Retake results for Express Entry. If one section falls short, a full retake is required for this specific application, even though One Skill Retake may be accepted by other organisations for other purposes.

Start on the official ieltscanada.ca test-centre or fee page for your city, or the IDP Canada booking flow where available. Choose the correct test, city and session; enter your personal details exactly as they appear on the identification document you will use; then check the test type, venue, date and total fee before payment.

After paying, keep the confirmation email and reference number. Check the full message rather than assuming the main test date covers every appointment, because your Speaking slot can have its own time.

Start with the date by which your immigration application, university or employer must receive the result. Work backwards to allow for the result window, score submission, travel to the centre and a possible retake. The nearest available session is not necessarily the safest choice.

Take a timed diagnostic before booking. If one skill is well below the required band, choose a date that leaves enough time for focused practice and feedback. Use Nektar's IELTS study guides for preparation, but return to the official provider for every booking, fee and availability check.