This guide explains how long you wait to get your IELTS results, using very simple English. You’ll learn about:
- Different test types (paper, computer, online, UKVI)
- When you can check your results
- How you receive them
- What you can do if you need re-marking
- How IvyPlug helps with your test planning and applications
1. IELTS Test Formats
The time you wait for your result depends on which test you take:
- IELTS on paper: the traditional written exam
- IELTS on computer: you type your answers using a computer at the test centre
- IELTS Online: you take the exam from home
- IELTS for UKVI: tests for UK Visas & Immigration, available in paper or computer format
- IELTS for UKVI Life Skills: a speaking and listening test required for UK visa purposes
Each format has a different result time.
2. How Long Each Test Takes to Release Results
The British Council and IELTS partners publish a standard timeframe for each test:
| Test Type | Waiting Time |
|---|---|
| IELTS on computer | 1–5 days (typically within 2 days) :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1} |
| IELTS Online (home) | 6–8 days :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2} |
| IELTS on paper | Up to 13 days :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3} |
| IELTS for UKVI (Paper/Computer) | Up to 13 days :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4} |
| IELTS for UKVI Life Skills | Up to 7 days :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5} |
Here’s what that means:
- Computer-based tests are fastest: you often get results in 1–2 days, sometimes even same day :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}.
- Online tests take a bit longer—normally up to a week.
- Paper tests are the slowest: expect up to 13 days before you see your online result.
- Special UKVI tests follow similar timeframes.
3. When You Can View Your Results
You won’t get your result by email or phone. Instead:
- IELTS sends you an email/SMS notification when your result is ready
- You log in to the Test Taker Portal to view it :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
- Online previews are not official—you must wait for the official Test Report Form (TRF/eTRF)
Official certificates arrive as follows:
- Paper test: physical TRF posted ~13 days after test, plus postal delivery time :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
- Computer/Online test: electronic TRF downloadable 1–8 days after the test, no paper copy :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
4. Real Student Experiences
Reddit users confirm these timelines:
“i took exam on 14th, already got my results next evening day. In most cases it takes 3‑5 days.” :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
“took 24 hrs after the exam … got result via text message on 27th July.” :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
These stories show that computer-based results are usually fast, often within 1–3 days.
5. Why There Might Be Delays
Occasionally, the exam board needs more time. This happens if:
- Your test needs careful checking
- They are verifying your identity matches your ID
- You took a very large test in your region
Even then, you won’t wait more than the maximum published time :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}.
6. Re‑Marks and One‑Skill Retake
6.1 Enquiry on Results (EOR)
- If you think a score is wrong, you can request a review within 6 weeks of your test :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}.
- This can take 2–21 days depending on sections reviewed.
- Fees apply but are refunded if scores improve.
6.2 One Skill Retake (Computer Only)
- Option to retake just one section within 60 days.
- Results are available quickly, like the main test.
7. What You Should Do After Getting Your Results
7.1 Download or print your TRF/eTRF
This is official proof. Universities, employers, or visa offices need it.
7.2 Send scores to organisations
- Up to five free reports can be sent electronically or by post :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}
- Extra copies may cost fees and take 7–10 days :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}
7.3 Check score validity
IELTS scores are valid for two years. After that, you’ll need to retake the test :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}.
8. Frequently Asked Questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| How fast are computer‑based results? | Usually in 1–2 days, sometimes same day, but max 5 days :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}. |
| When will I get paper test results? | Available online 13 days after test; physical copy by mail soon after :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}. |
| I took IELTS Online. How long to wait? | Results usually in 6–8 days; eTRF in 1–8 days after that :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}. |
| What about UKVI tests? | UKVI results follow the same timelines: up to 13 days for paper/computer; 7 days for Life Skills :contentReference[oaicite:20]{index=20}. |
| Can I speed it up? | No. Results come as quickly as possible once marking is complete :contentReference[oaicite:21]{index=21}. |
| I haven’t received results after 13 days. What now? | Contact your test centre to check on your scores. |
9. How IvyPlug Can Help You
Preparing for IELTS and using the results can be stressful. IvyPlug offers support in:
- Test planning: choosing the test type (computer or paper) based on your goal
- Reminders: helping you track result release times
- Document preparation: advice on sending TRFs to universities or visa offices
- Re‑mark help: guiding you through Enquiry on Results if needed
- One‑Skill Retake advice: helping you decide whether to retake a single section
10. Summary
- Computer-based IELTS results arrive fastest (1–5 days)
- Online IELTS results arrive in 6–8 days
- Paper IELTS results arrive in up to 13 days
- Notifications come by email/SMS; you view results on the portal
- Official certificate arrives soon after online release
- Score checks, additional reports, or re-marks can add extra time
Conclusion
Getting your IELTS result depends on the test type, but it never takes more than 13 days. Computer tests are fastest—often under 2 days—and paper tests take about two weeks. Keep your ID and portal login handy, and download your Test Report Form as soon as it’s available. For extra help with planning, document sending, or re-mark requests, IvyPlug supports students like you every step of the way.
Good luck with your IELTS test—you’re almost there!