It is not possible to "fail" the test. Candidates receive a Band Score for each of the four modules as well as an Overall Score. There is a nine-band range starting with Band 1 – Non-User (candidates who cannot use English beyond a few isolated words) up to Band 9 – Expert User (candidates with a fully operational command of the language). Most universities in the UK request an Overall Band Score of around 6.5 as an entry requirement for academic courses.

You can find a further description of the Test Band Scores here.

The chart below illustrates how the IELTS band scores compare
with the Common European Framework (CEF) levels and other University of Cambridge exams.

Please note that the IELTS scores referred to in the table are
the overall scores and not the individual module scores.

Online Results

IELTS candidates can view their results online from 4 pm on the 13th day after their exam date. This service is available to all candidates. To access your results please go to the IELTS Online Results webpage and follow the instructions: http://ielts-results.britishcouncil.org/

Sending Test Report Forms to institutions

Copies of your Test Report Form can be sent directly to institutions on your behalf within the two years of their validity. We despatch up to five copies free of charge.

Re-evaluation of Results

If you are not satisfied with your results, you have the option of applying for a re-evaluation of your test. This process is called Enquiry on Results. This is a paid service, the remark fee is GBP 60. Candidates requesting a re-mark of their results must complete an Enquiry of Results Form and submit it, together with proof of payment of the re-mark fee, at the test centre at which they took their test within 6 weeks of the test date. The result of the re-mark is available 6-8 weeks after British Council London receives the materials.

If the re-mark results in an improvement of the candidate's score, the candidate receives a full refund of the re-mark fee.