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A Complete Guide On IELTS Score Validity
Students from non-native English-speaking countries who plan to study abroad often need to take an English Language Proficiency test, which is a requirement at universities worldwide. This requirement applies to various levels of study, including diplomas, advanced diplomas, graduate certificates, undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs. Once international students successfully complete the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) exam, they are required to submit their scorecards to their chosen universities. Given that students may apply to multiple top universities, it's crucial to consider the validity period of their IELTS scores. In this blog, we will provide you with essential information regarding the validity of IELTS scores.
Overview Of IELTS Score Validity
IELTS consists of four sections – Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking. Each section holds 25% of the score. The band score ranges from 0-9 where a higher score indicates increased proficiency of the candidate. Band scores are given for each band and for the overall test.
Individual band scores evaluate proficiency in the particular section. Universities set the requirement of minimum band scores and overall score based on the course and other criteria. The level of skill in the ielts band score validity is explained in the table below.
| Level of Skill | Band Level | Remarks |
| Non-user | 1 | No capacity to use English language |
| Intermittent | 2 | Does not hold understanding of language in all bands. |
| Extremely limited | 3 | Has an understanding only of general terms. Unable to communicate continuously. |
| Limited | 4 | Repeated mistakes in understanding the language. |
| Modest | 5 | Holds partial command of the language |
| Competent | 6 | Holds fair understanding of complex words and can understand practically |
| Good | 7 | Minimal mistakes and holds operational command of the language |
| Very Good | 8 | Good command of the language in all bands with a few occasional mistakes |
| Expert | 9 | Accurate and appropriate command of the language |
IELTS Score Validity Country-wise
IELTS exam score validity refers to the time period until which the scores can be submitted to a university. After the expiration of IELTS exam score validity, the student will have to retake the exam and utilize the fresh scorecard to apply to universities. Validity of IELTS score for international students is determined by the government of each country. We have detailed them in the table below for your reference.
| Country | Score Validity |
|---|---|
| UK | 2 years |
| U.S. | 2 years |
| Australia | 2 years |
| Germany | 2 years |
| Canada | 2 years |
Validity Of IELTS Score Certificate
IELTS score validity is for a limited time period. Since the skills, expertise and proficiency of any language tend to depreciate over time if it is not used, there is validity of IELTS. IELTS score validity is decided by the Immigration department of the central government of the countries applying for a student visa. The validity is determined by considering several factors and it tends to be revised over time periods as required.
The scorecard validity is considered from the date the results of the IELTS are published. It is not from the date the test was taken. As an international student, you might want to apply to multiple universities and in several countries to get into the best universities in the world to pursue your studies. You can apply for different intakes and various course specializations. Since the validity of the IELTS scores is in place, there is no maximum cap on the number of times you attempt or retake the test. You can undertake the IELTS test any number of times in your lifetime for the purpose of studying abroad.
Suggested : IELTS Exam Dates 2023
Wrapping Up
Once you have decided on the course you want to study abroad, you can begin preparing for IELTS and undertake the test. IELTS tests are conducted four times a month and can be taken either online or offline. You can book your test in advance by logging onto the official website of IELTS or visiting the nearest center. However, the first step is deciding on the course specialization and the universities you must apply to to meet your educational goals. You can reach out to our bluehawks counselors at any time for guidance to make the right choice.
