IELTS results and scores
Your IELTS score gives institutions, governments and employers confidence that you have the English skills you need to succeed. Read on to find out about IELTS scoring and getting your results.
How do I get my IELTS test result?
Getting your British Council IELTS result is simple and convenient, and we’re here to support you through the whole process:
If you didn't get the result you need, resit just one skill with One Skill Retake
How to download IELTS test report (TRF)
When your scores are ready, you’ll get an email with a link for an IELTS result download in the Test Taker Portal. If you took IELTS on computer or IELTS Online, you can also download your Test Report Form (TRF) from the portal. We cannot disclose your IELTS result via email or over the phone. Your IELTS result is valid for two years.
What is the IELTS Test Report Form, and when will I receive it?
The IELTS Test Report Form (or TRF) is the official confirmation of your test result that can be shared as proof of your English language proficiency. This can either be a paper copy or an electronic version (eTRF)..
If you have taken IELTS on paper, your results would be available 13 days after your test date and in 1-2 days if you have taken IELTS on a computer. The paper copy of the TRF can be collected in person at the test centre or delivered by post; please check with your test centre what option is available locally. Please allow at least seven working days for the postal delivery of the TRF.
If you have taken IELTS Online or IELTS on computer, you will receive your results electronically only. You can download the electronic version (eTRF) from the Test Taker portal 1-8 days after your test. We will not issue an additional paper Test Report Forms.
You can print your electronic Test Report Form (eTRF) to send it to the organisations you are applying to, or you can send it via email. Alternatively, you can send your results direct to the organization through the Test Taker portal. If you lose your Test Report Form at any stage, or have questions about your results, please contact us.
How can I get copies of my Test Report Form?
Most institutions you’re applying to will need original copies of your IELTS Test Report Form, meaning photocopies will not be accepted. However, if you have taken IELTS Online, you can print out your eTRF or send it via email.
We can send up to five additional copies of your Test Report Form directly to the institutions you are applying to (e.g. universities, companies, immigration offices, etc). If you would like us to do this, please include the relevant addresses on the Test Taker Portal within two years of taking the test.
While paper versions remain the norm, some universities and institutions have now subscribed to the electronic download of IELTS scores. Please check with your local test centre before sending a hard copy of your results or asking us to do so.
Quick guide to getting your IELTS result
In this video, IELTS Teacher Emma takes you through how you can get your IELTS result online in under five minutes.
How long will it take to get my IELTS score?
The time it takes to get your IELTS result depends on which type of test you take.
1-5 days (typically within 2 days)
Up to 13 days
6-8 days
Up to 7 days
I received my result one day after the exam which is amazing and it's all clear on the website.”
- Test taker (IELTS on computer)
- Morocco
Need to improve your IELTS test result?
If you didn’t get the result you need, we offer a couple of options that may improve your score:
If you took IELTS on the computer, you can resit one section of the exam rather than the whole test with One Skill Retake.
If you think that your results don’t accurately reflect your English skills, you can have any, or all, sections re-marked for a fee.
What is the IELTS Test Report Form?
The IELTS Test Report Form (TRF) is the official confirmation of your test result that you can share as proof of your English language proficiency.
What can I expect on a TRF?
The TRF confirms your IELTS result and can be shared with institutions, employers and migration authorities. The form includes your photo and personal details, along with your IELTS score. Your IELTS result will be shown as an overall score, plus scores for each section.
How to get a paper TRF
You can collect the paper copy of your TRF in person at your test centre. Alternatively, you can request to receive a copy by post. Check with your test centre which option is available locally.
How to get an eTRF
If you took IELTS on computer or IELTS Online, you will receive your IELTS scores digitally. You can download your eTRF from the Test Taker portal. We will not issue an additional paper Test Report Forms.
Getting your IELTS result: FAQs
Yes, you will receive an email notification with a link to view and download your IELTS scores as an official Test Report Form (TRF) from the Test Taker Portal. Some test centres may also provide SMS alerts and an Online Results Service.
If you can’t view your results in the Test Taker Portal, contact your IELTS Test Centre directly.
If you are having issues logging into the Test Taker portal, contact your IELTS Test Centre directly for support.
You will receive just one copy of your Test Report Form. Replacement copies are not issued in the event of loss or damage. However, we can send up to five free copies to a recognising organisation within the two year test validity period.
Occasionally, IELTS results are delayed due to quality control checks. These are random checks to ensure scores are fair and accurate. Other reasons include a review of test performance if there are technical issues, discrepancies or suspicions of malpractice. In some cases, delays can also be caused by national holidays like Christmas or New Year. Contact your Test Centre if your results are not available during the normal timeframe for the test you took.