Your results are delivered two weeks after the exam.

Scores are recorded on an official Test Report Form, showing overall ability, as well as performance in listening, reading, writing and speaking. An original Report Form and  one copy are provided.

The exam has a two-year validity. It is possible to retake the exam the following session.

All scores are given on a nine band scale from non-user to expert user with 'a fully operational command of the language'. Different institutions have their own entrance requirements and may require minimum scores in particular modules. In general, universities request an Overall Band Score of 6.0 or 6.5 for entrance to academic courses. You are advised to check the score required with the particular institution to which you are applying.

IELTS Bands:

Band 1 NON USER
Essentially has no ability to use the language beyond a few isolated words.

Band 2 Intermittent User
No real communication is possible except for the most basic information using isolated words or short formulae in familiar situations and to meet immediate needs. Has great difficulty in understanding spoken and written English.

Band 3 Extremely Limited User
Conveys and understands only general meaning in very familiar situations. Frequent breakdowns in communication occur.

Band 4 Limited User
Basic competence is limited to familiar situations. Has frequent problems in understanding and expression. Is not able to use complex language.

Band 5 Modest User
Has partial command of the language, coping with overall meaning in most situations, though is likely to make many mistakes. Should be able to handle basic communication in own field.

Band 6 Competent User
Has generally effective command of the language despite some inaccuracies, inappropriacies and misunderstandings. Can use and understand fairly complex language, particularly in familiar situations.

Band 7 Good User
Has operational command of the language, though with occasional inaccuracies, inappropriacies and misunderstandings in some situations. Generally handles complex language well and understands detailed reasoning.

Band 8 Very Good User
Has fully operational command of the language with only occasional unsystematic inaccuracies and inappropriacies. Misunderstandings may occur in unfamiliar situations. Handles complex detailed argumentation well.

Band 9 Expert User
Has fully operational command of the language; appropriate, accurate and fluent with complete understanding.