IELTS Results, Re-marking (EOR), and Validity

Receiving Your Results

• Timeline:
  • Computer-delivered IELTS: Results are typically available online in **3-5 days** after your test date.
  • Paper-based IELTS: Results are typically available online **13 days** after your test date.
• Accessing Results Online: You can usually preview your results online through the portal of the test centre where you booked (IDP or British Council). This online preview is typically available for a limited time (e.g., 28 days).
• Test Report Form (TRF): You will receive one official paper copy of your Test Report Form (TRF). This is usually posted to you or available for collection from the test centre shortly after the results are released online. Test centres will NOT give results over the phone or via email.
• Sending TRF to Institutions: You can request up to five copies of your TRF to be sent directly to institutions (universities, immigration bodies, etc.) free of charge at the time of booking or potentially for a fee later.

Score Validity

• Your IELTS Test Report Form (TRF) is generally considered valid for **two years** from the test date.
• However, some organisations may accept scores older than two years under certain conditions, while others might have stricter validity requirements.
• Always check the specific requirements of the organisation you are applying to regarding the validity period of your IELTS score.

Enquiry on Results (EOR) / Re-marking

If you are unhappy with your results and believe there might have been an error in marking, you can apply for an Enquiry on Results (EOR), also known as a re-mark.

• Application Window: You must apply for an EOR within **six weeks** of your test date.
• Process: You can usually choose to have one or more sections of your test re-marked (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking). Your test materials will be sent to senior examiners for re-assessment.
• Cost: There is a fee for the EOR service. This fee is typically **refunded** if your band score in any re-marked section increases. Check the current fee with your test centre.
• Timeline: The EOR process can take several weeks (typically 2-21 days, but can vary). You will be notified of the outcome by your test centre.
• Outcome: The re-mark decision is final. Your score can either increase, decrease, or stay the same. If your score changes, you will be issued a new TRF.
• Consideration: Re-marks are most likely to result in a score change for the subjective Writing and Speaking sections, rather than the objectively marked Listening and Reading sections. Consider carefully if a re-mark is worthwhile based on your performance perception and the potential benefit versus the cost and time.

Unhappy with just one skill?

Check if the IELTS One Skill Retake option is available for you.