You can access your results online from 3pm on the 13th day after the written test date. Please go to the British Council on-line results system and follow the instructions. You will need to enter your candidate number, Passport or ID number, Date of birth and then select the date you took the test.

We will send your copy of the official Test Report Form (TRF) by post on the 13th day after the written test and if you complete page 3 of the IELTS application form we will send on copies of your TRF to the institutions you are applying to.

Please note that due to security reasons only one personal copy of the Test Report Form can be sent to each candidate.

We are not permitted to release the results earlier nor to give you any information regarding your results by phone or in person, by e-mail or fax.

For further details on what the Test Report Form contains please see page 4 of the IELTS handbook .

What do the IELTS scores mean?

			Candidates receive a band score for each separate skill (listening, reading, writing and speaking) plus an overall band score.
			The scores are on a scale of 1 to 9 including half bands e.g. 6.5
			There is no pass or fail mark.

Section 4 of the IELTS handbook outlines what candidates can do at each level and what scores academic institutions will generally require. However please note that the institutions to which you are applying will normally stipulate which band they require. You can consult the global recognition site  to search for individual institutions and the scores they require for different courses.

In addition, you can see how the scores relate to the Common European Framework levels designed by the Council of Europe.

If you would like further detailed information on how the scores are marked and processed please consult teachers and researchers data.

How long is my test result valid for?

As with most English language qualifications, it is recommended that IELTS scores are only valid after a 2 year period if you can prove you have kept up your language level. It is at the discretion of the receiving institution if they wish to accept your results after this period. Please note we can’t issue a Test Report Form on your behalf after the 2 year period.

What if I am not happy with my results?

If you are not satisfied with your results, you have the option of applying for a re-mark of your test. This process is called Enquiry on Results and costs €90. Should your score improve as a result of this re-evaluation, this amount will be refunded to you.

To make use of this service send an email to ielts@britishcouncil.fr

Please note that we must receive your form and payment within 6 weeks of the test date.

Can I retake the test if I don’t get the score I need?

You can take the test as many times as you wish and at the next available date. However, it should be noted that to significantly improve a score it is necessary to engage in further study. IELTS research indicates that scores are unlikely to improve dramatically without extensive English language tuition in the interim.

See our section on IELTS preparation for a range of options to help you prepare for the test.