The British Council in Nigeria has announced a 29% increase in the fees for the English Language Testing System (IELTS) examinations.
Starting from February 1, 2024, Nigerians will be required to pay N139,000 for the Computer Academic and General Training Modules, up from the current fee of N107,500. This exam is essential for many Nigerians intending to travel abroad.
The British Council stated, “We would like to inform you that there has been a review of our IELTS fees. The new price list of the IELTS range of tests offered by the British Council will be effective for registrations on or after 1 February 2024.”
The revised prices are as follows:
- IELTS on Computer Academic and General Training Modules: ₦139,000
- IELTS on Paper Academic and General Training Modules: ₦134,000
- UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI): ₦149,000
- Life Skills: ₦130,000
- One Skill Retake (O.S.R): ₦87,570
The increase in fees is attributed to the rising costs associated with delivering the exams, allowing the British Council to maintain a wide range of services and comprehensive support for candidates.
IELTS is widely recognized globally as proof of language proficiency for non-native English speakers. It is a collaborative effort between the British Council, Cambridge English Language Assessment, and IDP Education Australia, catering to individuals seeking educational opportunities, employment, or visa approvals in the UK, Canada, Australia, or New Zealand.
In light of the current ‘japa’ trend in the country, where individuals are emigrating, many Nigerians find it necessary to take the IELTS exam to meet the mandatory visa requirements of countries participating in the trend.
This recent fee increment adds to the escalating costs associated with the ‘japa’ phenomenon, further exacerbated by the devaluation of the Nigerian currency in recent times.