BRITISH COUNCIL IN NIGERIA ANNOUNCES FEES INCREASE FOR IELTS

The British Council has dealt another blow to Nigerian students and professionals aiming to study or work abroad, announcing a second hefty increase in IELTS examination fees within five months.

Effective February 1, 2024, the cost of taking the English Language Testing System for both computer academic and general training modules will hike by a staggering 29%, reaching a new high of N139,000. This comes on the heels of the September 2023 adjustment, which saw fees jump from N80,000 to N90,000, and then to the current N107,500.

The Council attributed the latest price hike to rising examination costs, but the rapid and significant increases are likely to raise concerns among Nigerians seeking international opportunities. Many already grapple with limited financial resources, and the escalating IELTS fees add another layer of hardship to their pursuit of education and career goals.

The increasing price tag could disproportionately impact students from disadvantaged backgrounds, potentially widening the access gap to global pathways. This raises questions about the Council’s commitment to promoting educational equity and international mobility.

It remains to be seen whether the Council’s justification will resonate with Nigerians facing the financial pinch. The rapid surge in fees within a short time frame might call for transparency and a detailed breakdown of the alleged cost increases.

This news is bound to leave many aspiring test-takers scrambling for solutions. Exploring alternative English language tests or seeking scholarships and financial aid could become crucial alternatives for those hoping to navigate the ever-more expensive path towards international aspirations.

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Source: Jordan105.5fm News Bulletin