IELTS Results & Scores: Dates, Band Scores, and Validity
The results for the computer-based IELTS exam are usually provided to test-takers within 3-5 days. On the other hand, those who take the paper-based IELTS exam receive their results on the 13th day after taking the exam. If you wish to check your IELTS results online, you must visit the official IDP IELTS website. Candidates who are unable to check their results within a few days of their release can take a sigh of relief, as the IELTS results are available on the IDP IELTS website for at least 28 days. That said, keep reading to learn more about IELTS results & scores.
How is IELTS Scored?
The IELTS exam is scored individually on a scale of 0 to 9, using a band score system to assess your English proficiency in four main skills: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. Scores are given in increments of 0.25, 0.5, and 0.75.
The overall IELTS score is calculated by taking the mean of all four section scores.
For example:
The band scores reflect your level of English:
Band 9: Expert user, fully operational command of the language.
Band 8: Very good user, only occasional errors.
Band 7: Good user, occasional mistakes but generally effective.
Band 6: Competent user, able to use English well despite errors.
Band 5: Modest user, basic communication possible but frequent errors.
Each section score, along with your overall band score, plays an important role in meeting the requirements set by universities, employers, or immigration authorities.
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How Long Does it Take to Get IELTS Results?
IDP ensures that you do not have to wait more than two long weeks to receive your IELTS results. That said, refer to the table below to go through the IELTS results time for different IELTS test formats.
Test | Time to Receive IELTS Results |
|---|---|
IELTS Computer-Based Test | 3-5 Days |
IELTS Online | 6-8 Days |
IELTS for Life Skills | 7 Days |
IELTS for UKVI (Paper) | 13 Days |
IELTS for UKVI (Computer) | 3-5 Days |
IELTS Paper-Based Test | 13 Days |
How to Check IELTS Results & Scores?
To check your IELTS results, visit the official IELTS website or the test centre's online portal where you registered. Log in using your credentials, including your candidate number and ID/passport details. Results are typically available online 13 days after the test date for paper-based exams and 3 - 5 days for computer-based tests. Here is a quick overview followed by detailed steps:
Step 1 - Visit the official IELTS website or your test centre's portal.
Step 2 - Log in using your credentials (registration ID and password).
Step 3 - Navigate to the results section.
Step 4 - Enter your test details (test date, module, and candidate number).
Step 5 - View and download your result.
How to Check IDP IELTS Results Through Email?
You can check your IELTS results on your registered email address. Once the IELTS results are declared, test-takers will receive an email from the conducting body of the IELTS exam, i.e., IDP (India). Furthermore, individuals can keep tabs on their registered emails to receive such crucial notifications from IDP.
How to Get IELTS Results from the Test Centre?
Individuals looking forward to getting their IELTS results from designated IELTS centres can refer to the steps below.
You must first corroborate your exam centre in which you had taken the IELTS exam.
Then, visit your designated IELTS test centre. You must carry your identity paper (or ID card) to the test centre. Make sure that your identity paper was the one that was used to register you for the IELTS exam.
You will be required to provide your candidate number. Use this number to check your IDP IELTS result.
How to Calculate IELTS Band Scores?
To calculate IELTS band scores, average the scores of the four sections (Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking) and round to the nearest half or whole band. Each section of the IELTS exam is scored on a scale of 0 to 9, with half-band increments (e.g., 6.5, 7.5). For instance, if you score 7.5 in Listening, 7.0 in Reading, 6.5 in Writing, and 6.0 in Speaking, the total average score would be calculated as follows:
Listening: 7.5
Reading: 7.0
Writing: 6.5
Speaking: 6.0
The average score would be (7.5 + 7.0 + 6.5 + 6.0) / 4 = 6.75, which rounds up to a band score of 7. It's important to remember that each section is weighted equally, so it's beneficial to perform well in all areas to achieve a higher overall band score.
What is an IELTS Test Report Form (TRF)?
IELTS Test Report Form (TRF): IELTS test-takers receive their IELTS results in the TRF (Test Report Form) format. Individuals who take the exam are provided with only one TRF. The TRF, or Test Report Form, is an official document that contains an individual's official IELTS scores. The TRF document includes a candidate's IELTS scores for each section, including Listening, Writing, Reading, and Speaking. These documents are typically favoured by international universities for applicant verification because they incorporate an individual's IELTS scores. In other words, students who want to study abroad must submit their TRF reports, which include their IELTS results.
You can send your IELTS scores to up to five universities you designated during your initial application for free. This benefit applies within one month of your exam date. The delivery method employed by the testing organisation will vary based on the university's preference. Scores can be delivered electronically via email, or through traditional methods like regular mail, courier service, or even overseas postage depending on the institution's location.
How to Send IELTS Exam Results to Universities?
You can send your IELTS scores directly to up to five universities or institutions at no extra cost. This option is available during the registration process, where you can specify the institutions to receive your results. If you need to send scores to more than five institutions, you can request additional Test Report Forms (TRFs) through your test centre for a fee.
This allows you to share your performance with as many organisations as required for your academic or professional pursuits. Make sure to plan your requests carefully to take full advantage of the complimentary reporting service. Here's how you can send your scores :
During registration, list the institutions where you want your scores sent.
If additional reports are needed, request them via your test centre for a fee.
What is the IELTS Score Validity?
The IELTS score validity period is two years from the date of the test. This ensures the score reflects a candidate's current English language proficiency. After this period, institutions may not accept the results as proof of language ability. The validity applies to all test types, including Academic and General Training.
Candidates planning to use their IELTS scores for immigration, education, or employment should confirm specific requirements with the relevant organisation. Retaking the test after the validity period is necessary to obtain a new score. Always check the latest guidelines for any updates on IELTS score acceptance policies.
Retake the IELTS Exam
The IELTS exam offers flexibility to candidates who wish to improve their scores, whether it's their overall band or a specific section. If you feel your performance in one or more sections fell short of your expectations, you have the option to retake the test.
With the IELTS One Skill Retake, candidates can retake a single section of the test rather than sit for the entire exam again. This option is particularly beneficial for those who have performed well in most sections but struggled with one, such as Writing or Speaking. The score from the re-taken section will replace the previous score for that section, while the scores for the remaining sections remain unchanged.
Enquiry on IELTS Result
If you feel that your IELTS scores do not accurately reflect your performance, you have the option to request an Enquiry on Results (EOR). This service allows you to have your test scores re-evaluated by senior examiners who were not involved in the initial assessment.
The Enquiry on Results process can be initiated within 6 weeks from the IELTS test date. To submit your EOR request, please log in to your candidate portal. Once logged in, navigate to the "EOR" tab and click on 'Apply Now' to complete the online application form.
The administrative fee for the EOR application, including all taxes, is as follows:
IELTS: INR 12,750 (inclusive of all taxes)
IELTS for UKVI: INR 12,900 (inclusive of all taxes)
IELTS Life Skills: INR 12,000 (inclusive of all taxes)
IELTS on Computer: INR 12,750 (inclusive of all taxes)
