Navigating through your International English Language Testing System (IELTS) results can initially seem a bit daunting, but with a proper understanding of the grading system, you’ll be able to make sense of your score in no time. This blog aims to offer an in-depth understanding of IELTS results, their interpretation, and how they can shape your future pursuits.
IELTS: An Overview
The IELTS is a standardized test that assesses your English language proficiency if English is not your first language. It’s accepted by most academic institutions in English-speaking countries and is also recognized by various professional organizations worldwide. There are two versions of IELTS: Academic, for those seeking higher education or professional registration, and General Training, for those migrating to Australia, Canada, or the UK.
IELTS Scoring System
The IELTS employs a 9-band scale to measure and report test scores consistently. Each section—Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking—is scored individually, and the average of these scores provides your overall band score.
Listening and Reading Tests
The IELTS Listening and Reading Tests are scored out of 40. Your raw score (the number of correct answers) is then converted to the IELTS 9-band scale using a conversion table. This table varies from test to test, implying that there isn’t a fixed percentage of questions you need to answer correctly to achieve a particular band score.
Writing and Speaking Tests
The IELTS Writing and Speaking Tests are marked according to performance descriptors, which describe written and spoken performance at each of the 9 IELTS bands. For these sections, you’re assessed on various criteria such as coherence and cohesion, lexical resource, grammatical range and accuracy, pronunciation, etc.
Receiving and Interpreting Your IELTS Results
Your Test Report Form (TRF) is published 13 days after your test date, and it will contain your scores for each testing area and an overall band score. The overall band score is the average of your scores for the four sections, rounded to the nearest whole or half band.
If you’ve taken the IELTS on a computer, your results will be available within 3 to 5 days after your test.
Each organization sets its own IELTS score requirements. Universities typically require an overall score of 6.0 or 7.0 to ensure that you can effectively communicate in an English-speaking environment.
Enquiry on Results
If you are not satisfied with your IELTS score, you can apply for an Enquiry on Results within six weeks of your test date. Your test will be remarked by a senior IELTS examiner, with results usually available within 2 to 21 days. If your score changes as a result of the re-marking, your fee is refunded, and you are issued a new Test Report Form.
Can I send my IELTS results electronically?
How can I send my IELTS results to an organization electronically?
You can request to send your IELTS results electronically to the institutions of your choice. You need to provide the name and address of the institution, and the IELTS test center will send the results for you.
Is sending IELTS results electronically available for all test takers?
No, sending IELTS results electronically is not available for all test takers. It depends on the institution’s preference and its agreement with IELTS. You should check with the institution to see if it offers this service.
What is the process for sending IELTS results electronically?
You need to provide the name and address of the institution, and the IELTS test center will send the results for you.
The IELTS exam is an important step for those looking to embark on an international journey, whether for study, work, or migration. Therefore, understanding your results and using them effectively is crucial to achieving your goals. Remember that preparation is key, so study hard, use resources wisely, and good luck with your IELTS journey!
Frequently asked questions about IELTS results
What do I do if I lost my TRF?
If you lose your Test Report Form, you can request a replacement by contacting the test center where you took the exam. You will need to pay a fee for the replacement, and it may take a few weeks to process.
Can someone else collect my IELTS results for me?:
Yes, someone else can collect your IELTS results on your behalf. You need to provide written authorization to the IELTS test center stating the name of the person who will collect the results for you. The person collecting the results must also present a valid ID.
What if I need my IELTS test date changed?
If you need to change your IELTS test date, you can do so by contacting the IELTS test center where you registered for the exam. You must do this at least five weeks before the scheduled exam date, or you may incur a penalty fee.