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More people succeed with IELTS, because IELTS is the language test more people trust.
Did you know that over 12,500 organisations around the world rely on IELTS results as a true reflection of a test taker’s English skills?
Because of this, the IELTS partners have a responsibility to our test takers and to recognising organisations to ensure the highest confidence in the accuracy of test.
That is why we have multi-layered processes in place before, during and after test day to ensure you and organisations can have the highest trust in your test result.
Due to IELTS’ multi-layered approach to results validation, results can be withheld for further analysis after the 13-day period if required.
IELTS results may be withheld and analysed to ensure the integrity of the test and fairness to all test takers. These measures are essential to protect the validity of results for the millions of test takers that take IELTS every year.
If you received a notice saying your result has been delayed, please know you can contact our team for more information. Hotline IDP: 02 011 8688
First, where can you learn more?
In the terms and conditions, we have outlined some of reasons why we may need to withhold your result to ensure you, and organisations, can have confidence in your result.
When you sign up to IELTS, we encourage you to review the terms and conditions before you sign them. You can read these here: IELTS Test terms and conditions
The following points you should consider under terms and conditions
Your result may not be issued in the required timeframe (13 days after the test) if the IELTS Test Partners decide that it is necessary to review any matter associated with your test or the administration of your test, including making enquiries as to whether any rules or regulations have been breached. You understand that in exceptional circumstances you may be required to retake one or more IELTS sections.
This means you may not receive your results within 13 days if IELTS needs to conduct additional checks. The most common reasons for this delay are: 1) A re-check of your test is required by IELTS 2) Quality control procedures are being carried out on how your test was administered.
If any irregularity is identified in connection with your test, your result may be cancelled even after it has been issued. In such cases, you may be asked to retake one or more IELTS components.
This means an "irregularity" refers to any issue or unusual circumstance related to your test or how it was conducted that is considered unacceptable. your results may be cancelled, and you may need to take your test or parts of your test again
If any information on your Test Report Form - submitted by you or your agent to Recognising Organisations - has been altered, your original test results may be cancelled.
This means please ensure all information is accurate and only work with trusted, reputable agents.
IELTS reserves the right to withhold or cancel results for further analysis or quality control checks.
By signing the application form, you agree to the possibility of result delays and confirm your acceptance of the IELTS terms and conditions.
Then, what should you do? if your results are delayed?
If your results are delayed, please be patient. There is no set time frame for how long the delay may last. While some test takers receive their results within 1 - 2 weeks, others may need to wait up to a month - or in rare cases, as long as 3 months.
However, if you believe your score does not reflect your English language ability, there are a few options you may like to consider:
One Skill Retake: With the One Skill Retake option, you can retake a single section of the IELTS test to improve your score without having to retake the entire exam.
Enquiry on Result: If you believe there has been an error in your IELTS results, you can request an Enquiry on Result to have your test re-evaluated by senior examiners.
Appealing an investigation: If your result was investigated as part of our quality and integrity processes, you have the option to appeal the decision for further review and consideration.
If you do decide to re-sit your IELTS test, make sure you take a moment to review this post to ensure you are putting yourself in the best position to achieve your best score: Need to re-sit IELTS? Read our expert tips to help you | IDP IELTS