Core Viewpoint - The IELTS examination, while a significant language assessment for international students, is facing financial difficulties, particularly for its organizing body, the British Council, which may be on the brink of bankruptcy due to declining revenues and increasing operational costs [5][28][29]. Group 1: Financial Situation of IELTS Organizers - The British Council, one of the main organizers of the IELTS, has reported severe financial distress, with its CEO warning of potential dissolution within ten years if government intervention does not occur [5][28]. - The British Council's revenue from teaching and examinations peaked at £727 million in the 2016-2019 fiscal years but plummeted to £448 million in 2021 due to the pandemic, representing a nearly 40% decline [22]. - By the 2024 fiscal year, the British Council's net loss reached £66 million, with its available reserves falling into negative territory at -£4.3 million [29]. Group 2: IELTS Examination Costs and Market Dynamics - The IELTS examination fees have consistently increased, with the cost rising from ¥1680 in 2013 to ¥2170 in 2020, making it one of the most expensive language tests globally [12][16]. - China has become the largest market for IELTS, accounting for 23% of the global examination volume, with the British Council being the sole official operator in mainland China [19][22]. - The disparity in examination fees across different regions highlights a significant pricing strategy, with China having some of the highest fees, second only to Hong Kong [16][19]. Group 3: Competitive Landscape and Future Outlook - IDP Education, a competitor, has begun to expand into the Chinese market, potentially capturing 40% of the market share by 2028, which poses a significant threat to the British Council's dominance [34]. - The British Council has attempted to mitigate its financial issues by selling its Indian IELTS operations to IDP Education, which has seen a substantial increase in revenue from this segment [32][34]. - The ongoing financial struggles of the British Council may lead to increased costs for IELTS candidates, as the burden of maintaining the examination infrastructure will ultimately fall on the test-takers [35].