中国最贵的英语考试，开始闹破产了

Core Viewpoint - The IELTS examination, despite its high fees and the financial struggles of its organizing body, the British Council, remains a lucrative business, particularly in China, where it faces increasing scrutiny and competition [6][22][30]. Group 1: Financial Struggles of the British Council - The British Council is reportedly facing severe financial difficulties, with its CEO warning that it could "disappear" within a decade if government intervention does not occur [6][30]. - The Council's revenue from teaching and examinations peaked at £720 million in the 2016-2019 fiscal years but plummeted to £448 million in 2021 due to the pandemic, with a recent recovery bringing it back to £704 million in 2024 [25][32]. - The British Council has been increasingly reliant on IELTS examination fees to sustain its operations, with teaching and examination income accounting for 71.2% of total revenue in 2024, the highest in a decade [25][32]. Group 2: IELTS Examination Fees and Market Position - The IELTS examination fees have consistently increased, with the cost rising from 1,680 yuan in 2013 to 2,170 yuan in 2020, making it one of the most expensive language tests globally [13][14][18]. - China has the second-highest IELTS fees globally, only behind Hong Kong, and faces a unique market where candidates endure high costs and stringent scoring systems [18][20]. - The IELTS examination is characterized by a high volume of test-takers, with 400 million tests conducted globally, 23% of which come from China and the U.S., indicating China's significant role in the IELTS market [23][24]. Group 3: Competitive Landscape and Future Outlook - The British Council has lost its competitive edge in India, selling its IELTS operations to IDP Education, which has seen significant revenue growth from this market [28][36]. - IDP Education is planning to enter the Chinese market directly, which could further threaten the British Council's dominance in the IELTS space [36][37]. - The financial pressures on the British Council may lead to increased examination fees for candidates, as the organization struggles to maintain its operations amidst declining revenues [38][39].