In a move likely to impact prospective test-takers, the British Council Nigeria has announced a second increase in the prices of the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) for the year 2024.
This adjustment, effective from March 1, 2024, is attributed to what the Council terms as “prevailing market dynamics.”
The Council’s website update on Thursday stated, “The change in fees is due to the evolving market dynamics and increased costs in the delivery of our exams.” This statement underscores the rationale behind the decision, pointing towards factors beyond mere administrative adjustments.
According to the latest pricing structure, applicants for the IELTS computer academic and general training modules will now face a fee of N266,000. Meanwhile, those opting for paper academic and general training modules will be required to pay N256,500. Furthermore, UK visas and immigration (UKVI) applicants will now encounter a fee of N285,500, and IELTS life skills assessments will cost N249,000.
This recent hike follows closely on the heels of a previous adjustment in January, which saw a substantial 29 per cent increase in test fees. Prior to this year’s alterations, the cost of writing the IELTS test stood at N107,500. The January prices set the IELTS computer academic and general training modules at N139,000, while paper-based academic and general training modules were priced at N134,000. Additionally, UKVI tests saw an increase to N149,000, and life skills assessments were adjusted to N130,000.
The IELTS, an internationally recognized English language proficiency assessment, holds significant importance for migrants aspiring to study overseas and skilled workers seeking employment opportunities abroad. As such, any alterations in its pricing structure can have far-reaching implications for individuals seeking to pursue educational or professional opportunities outside Nigeria.
