How long do the results take?
ielts.org publishes timings by test type. On its results page, IELTS on computer is usually within 1-2 days, IELTS on Paper within 13 days (7 in India), IELTS Online usually 6-8 days, and IELTS for UKVI Life Skills within 9 days. A second page on ways to take IELTS says computer results are available 1-5 days after the test, and within 5 days when Writing is taken on paper. That page also says UKVI tests must be taken at an official IELTS test centre.
| Test type | Published timing |
|---|---|
| IELTS on computer | Usually 1-2 days; range 1 to 5 days |
| Computer, Writing on Paper | Within 5 days of the test date |
| IELTS on Paper | Within 13 days |
| IELTS Online | Usually 6-8 days |
| IELTS for UKVI Life Skills | Within 9 days |
Neither page gives a separate figure for IELTS for UKVI Academic or General Training. Ask your test centre or check its booking page for the timing that applies to your test, and do not plan travel or a deadline around the fastest figure.
Where is the UKVI number?
GOV.UK explains the reference number in its guidance on secure English language tests. For IELTS SELT Consortium tests the SELT unique reference number is called the UKVI number. The page warns that if you do not include the reference number, your application may be refused. Check that page for the current rule.
On the report form, ielts.org says the UKVI unique reference number was moved to the bottom of the form in 2024 (see the next section). If you cannot find it, ask your test centre.
What changed on the UKVI TRF
An ielts.org notice says the updated IELTS for UKVI Test Report Form format would be implemented on 29 August 2024. It lists three changes:
- each of the four skills now shows its own CEFR equivalent;
- a new section summarises the candidate's performance;
- the UKVI unique reference number sits at the bottom of the form.
The same notice says computer tests taken before that date receive the previous version, that the IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training report forms are unchanged, and that the changes do not affect how scores are calculated, used or interpreted. Your band scores mean the same thing as before; only the layout and extra information differ.
Are paper copies sent to the Home Office?
GOV.UK says you do not need to submit any documents with the immigration or nationality application. Test results and scores are checked using the SELT online verification system. Check the GOV.UK page and your application's own instructions for the current rule.
How long is the result valid?
GOV.UK states that results are valid for 2 years from the date the test is awarded. It also says a test taken in the UK can be used for UK and overseas applications. Whether a particular route accepts your date and level is a question for that route's own page, so check it before you book a test.
Asking for a re-mark
If you believe a score is wrong, ielts.org describes an Enquiry on Results. Your papers are re-marked by senior Examiners or Markers, and a result can come back the same day or up to 21 days after you apply. If you hear nothing after 21 days, ielts.org tells you to contact your test centre. The fee is fully refunded if the band score changes, and the centre then issues a new TRF. The ielts.org page states no deadline for applying and no UKVI-specific rule, so ask your centre about both before relying on a re-mark for an application date.
This page is general information from the pages linked above, not personal immigration advice. Check the named official pages for the current rule before you apply.
How lessons with Mike can help
Mike does not run the test and cannot see or change your result. What he can do is help you prepare for the four skills before you sit it: Writing Task 1 and Task 2 marked against the public band descriptors, and Speaking Parts 1 to 3 in the real format with feedback in the moment. Lessons are one-to-one, live on Google Meet, in English, and written progress notes are left in your account. If your target band is on a UKVI letter or visa page, see the score by route first, then book a lesson. Mike's background is on his about page.
