Overview of IELTS Score

The IELTS exam has four sections (listening, reading, writing, and speaking) and each of them is marked on individual band scores. The IELTS band score analyses the test taker’s ability on the band scale of 1-9. The highest IELTS band score received is 9 who is marked as an expert user, the lower the score, the worse.

How Long is an IELTS Score Valid For?

The IELTS results are received within 5 to 7 days of the exam. The IELTS score validity is of 2 years commencing from the date of receiving it. The reason behind the validity of the IELTS score being only 2 years is - it ensures the originality of the knowledge that the candidate has learned while preparing for the IELTS exam. A higher score validity can result in the deterioration of the candidate’s knowledge.

But the IELTS score validity is distinctive in certain countries, let us study the same.

IELTS Score Validity for Canada

The IELTS score validity for Canada is two years.

Note: In the case of Canadian Immigration, candidates need to submit the IELTS test validity within a year of submitting the application.

IELTS Score Validity for the USA

The IELTS exam is accepted by over 3,400 institutions in the US. IELTS test is operated throughout the USA test centers by providing support. The IELTS score validity for the USA is two years.

IELTS Score Validity for Australia

The IELTS score validity for Australia was two years previously for Australian General Skilled Migration or GSM applications. But it has been extended to three years which is a part of the other changes being incorporated in the GSM visa program.

IELTS Score Validity for UK

The IELTS score validity for the UK is two years only after the test date. If the candidate is not satisfied with their test scores then they can proceed with an inquiry on results or EOR service within 6 weeks of the release date.

Note: If the candidate is applying for a tier 1 visa or a general visa then having a score of 7.0 in each of the four skills is necessary.

Validity of IELTS Certificate

The IELTS certificate validation is calculated from the time of their receiving results. The IELTS certificate will also be considered invalid once it crosses the two years’ duration. Test-takers can retake the IELTS exam if their certificate crosses the validity period.