IELTS Results: When They Arrive, Where to Check Them and How Long They Are Valid

When results arrive

• Computer-based test: usually within 1–5 days.
• Paper-based test: usually within 13 days.

The availability of computer-based and paper-based formats and the exact result release time differ by country and test centre. Check the official IELTS booking website for your country (ielts.org lists the official booking sites).

Results are published online in the dashboard of the organisation where you booked your test. The paper Test Report Form is issued at the test centre or sent by post, and most universities and other receiving organisations get the result directly in electronic form.

What your result includes

A band score for each of the four sections — Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking — and an Overall band score on the 0–9 scale in half bands. How band scores are calculated is explained in our article IELTS band scores.

How long results are valid

The recommended validity period is 2 years from the test date. Most universities, employers and immigration authorities in India, Pakistan, Nigeria and the Philippines accept results within this period, but some organisations set their own requirements. Check the requirements of the organisation where you plan to apply in advance, especially if you are applying near the end of the second year.

If your result is lower than expected

1. Enquiry on Results. You can request a re-mark of one or more sections within a limited period after the test. The service is paid and the fee differs by country — check the official booking site for your country. If your band score increases, the fee is refunded. An Enquiry on Results is most often considered for Writing and Speaking when the band is noticeably lower than expected.
2. One Skill Retake. Retake one of the four skills within 60 days of your original computer-based test. Availability, eligibility and fees differ by country and test centre — check the official IELTS booking website for your country.
3. Full retake. There is no limit on the number of attempts. You can retake the full IELTS test (Academic or General Training) whenever you are ready.

How to approach the test with confidence

Taking the test just to "see how it goes" is expensive, and fees differ by country. Before you book, take one or two mock tests and compare your «IELTS band forecast» with the requirements of your chosen programme. This helps you practise effectively, organise your preparation and enrol for the real test when you are ready.