Get a second chance to achieve your desired score with IELTS One Skill Retake
As one of the most recognised English proficiency tests worldwide, the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) opens doors to universities, employers, and immigration authorities. A high IELTS score can significantly enhance your prospects, whether you’re aiming for admission to a prestigious university, securing a job in an English-speaking country, or meeting visa requirements.
Given the importance of the IELTS score, achieving the desired band score can sometimes require retaking the test. However, rather than reattempting the entire test, improving a specific skill may be a more effective strategy. This is where the IELTS One Skill Retake (OSR) comes into play, providing test takers with a second chance to improve their overall IELTS score by concentrating on a single section.
What is IELTS One Skill Retake?
The IELTS One Skill Retake is a relatively new feature that allows test takers to retake just one of the four sections (Listening, Reading, Writing, or Speaking) of the IELTS test rather than the entire test. This option provides test takers with a flexible and targeted approach to improving their overall band score, especially if they have performed well in most sections but fell short in one area. Test takers can choose to retake the section up to 60 days after their initial test, giving them ample time to prepare and focus on the specific skill they want to improve.
Moreover, the IELTS One Skill Retake is a feature unique to the IELTS on Computer test, making it the only major English proficiency test to offer such an option. This feature also allows test-takers to choose between using their original overall band score or the new one after the updated Test Report Form (TRF) is released, offering even more flexibility and control over their results.
How widely accepted is IELTS OSR by universities and governments?
The IELTS One Skill Retake is recognised by over 1,200 organisations globally, including top educational institutions.
IELTS OSR is now accepted by all New Zealand universities, the NZ government and UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). This allows you to submit your best English test score with your university and visa applications!
It’s essential to verify with the specific institution or government body to which you are applying. Here is a compiled list of organisations that accept One Skill Retake scores sorted by country.
When to consider a One Skill Retake
There are several scenarios where opting for an IELTS One Skill Retake might be the best strategy. However, before you decide if a One Skill Retake is right for you, you will first need to ensure:
You have completed a full test at a centre that offers IELTS One Skill Retake.
Your full test was an IELTS on Computer test.
You will sit for your IELTS One Skill Retake within 60 days of your full IELTS test.
Once you've confirmed your eligibility, consider these scenarios where a One Skill Retake might be beneficial:
Specific performance gap
If you notice a significant gap between your scores in different sections, an IELTS One Skill Retake could be a smart move. For example, if your Listening, Reading, and Speaking scores are strong, but your Writing score is significantly lower, retaking just the Writing section could help you achieve a more balanced overall band score. This focused approach means you can concentrate your efforts on closing that specific gap, which can lead to a substantial increase in your total score.
Financial and time constraints
Preparing for and retaking the entire IELTS test can be both time-consuming and costly. By retaking only one section, you can reduce the preparation time and focus more intensively on improving that particular skill. This approach not only saves money but also minimises any stress associated with re-preparing for the full test.
Goal-specific score requirements
Different goals, such as university admissions or visa applications, often have specific IELTS score requirements for individual sections. For example, some universities in Australia may require a minimum score for a particular skill area. If you meet the overall band score but fall short in one section, retaking that specific skill can help you meet the exact criteria needed. This is particularly important when applying to competitive programs or when your visa application depends on achieving specific scores in each section.
How much is One Skill Retake for IELTS?
With IDP, the price for an IELTS One Skill Retake is lower than the cost of retaking the entire test, making it a more economical option for those who only need to improve one area. For instance, in Singapore, an IELTS One Skill Retake costs SGD$238 (AUD$280) and in the Philippines, it costs PHP 7,780.
The fee remains consistent regardless of whether you retake the Speaking, Listening, Reading, or Writing sections. Additionally, there are no extra charges for registration, payment processing, or even last-minute bookings.
How to book One Skill Retake for IELTS
Booking an IELTS One Skill Retake through IDP is a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you:
Visit the IDP Website: Navigating to the IELTS section.
Log in to Your Account: Use your existing IELTS account credentials to log in.
View Your Past Results: Once logged in, navigate to the section where your previous test results are displayed.
Select the One Skill Retake Option: Click the “retake” button.
Choose Your Test Date and Centre: Select a test date and centre that is convenient for you. Remember, the IELTS One Skill Retake must be taken within 60 days of your original test.
Complete the Payment: Once your payment is confirmed, you’ll receive a confirmation email with the retake test details.
Choose IDP for your One Skill Retake
Deciding whether to opt for an IELTS One Skill Retake depends on your specific needs and circumstances. If you’re aiming to improve your IELTS score without retaking the entire test, the One Skill Retake offers a flexible and targeted approach that’s particularly beneficial for those who need to meet specific score requirements for academic, professional, or migration purposes.
If you’re still considering which English proficiency test to take, the IELTS, with its One Skill Retake option, stands out as a valuable choice. It not only offers the flexibility to retake a single section but also provides comprehensive support to help you achieve your desired score. And, with IDP’s extensive preparation resources for guidance, including free IELTS online tests and IELTS preparation courses, you can confidently prepare and achieve the scores you need.
The IELTS by IDP app also provides plenty of official materials to help you prepare for your test, including practice tests, and expert tips. When you’re ready, book your IELTS test to begin your journey!