Have you taken your IELTS test, received your official Test Report Form, and need to improve your score in just one area? IELTS One Skill Retake allows you to retake one of the four skills: Listening, Reading, Writing, or Speaking.

We know most test takers get the scores they need the first time. But if you feel you haven’t performed to your best in all areas, IELTS One Skill Retake can help you get back on track.

Here are 5 tips to get you ready for IELTS One Skill Retake!

How to succeed in IELTS One Skill Retake - 5 tips you must know!

Tip 1: Know where to improve

Want to know where you went wrong on your IELTS test? And how to improve for your IELTS One Skill Retake test?  

If you plan to take IELTS One Skill Retake soon and would like expert feedback on your English skills, we recommend IELTS Assist.

With IELTS Assist, you get a sample test for IELTS Reading, Speaking or Writing. An official IELTS coach will look at your work, and give you expert and detailed feedback on your performance.

IELTS Assist allows you to improve on your mistakes and prevent them when you sit your IELTS One Skill Retake.

Tip 2: Understand IELTS marking criteria

At IELTS, we share with you how we test, how we mark your work, and what is important.

When preparing for your IELTS One Skill Writing or Speaking, make sure you understand what examiners look for, and how your band score is calculated.

Example: You scores a 6.0 for Speaking on your IELTS test, but you need a 7.0. When you read the Speaking assessment criteria, you'll see that a band 6.0 allows for "occasional repetition, self-correction or hesitation." At an IELTS 7.0, you should "speaks at length without noticeable effort" although "some repetition and/or self-correction" is still okay.Can you see areas where you can improve?

Tip 3: Access an IELTS Masterclass

Preparation is essential for IELTS One Skill Retake, just like it is for the full IELTS test.

So, when you read Tip 1 and understand your strengths and weaknesses, and you've accessed the marking criteria we told you about in Tip 2, it's time to listen to an expert.

Our free IELTS Masterclasses are designed to help you target an advanced level of English. You’ll get tips on how to achieve a higher score. We’ll explain the marking criteria and help you avoid mistakes. 

Tip 4: Don't rush, and take your time

If you want a better score for one of the skills of your IELTS test, you need to book and sit the IELTS One Skill Retake test within 60 days of your original test. That means you have enough time to prepare.

Okay, sometimes you need your English language test results quickly. For example, when you're applying for a visa or for university. But, if possible, take some time to prepare before sitting IELTS One Skill Retake.

Our tip: Book IELTS One Skill Retake early because the demand is high and places are limited. But, when selecting a test date to retake your one skill, ensure you leave at least a couple of weeks to prepare.

Tip 5: Download the IELTS App

The official IELTS by IDP app is a free and easy way to access practice material and check your test results.

Prepare with confidence, using a personalised app experience, based on your level of skill. From articles and videos to online courses and practice tests, there's learning content for every type of preparation at your fingertips.

With the IELTS app, you can view exclusive preparation articles, webinars, and test taker videos. You can also hear from world-class IELTS experts as they share tips and tricks to ace your test.

IELTS by IDP app

Book, prepare, and preview your results all in one place. Download the IELTS by IDP app today!

Read more about IELTS One Skill Retake

IELTS One Skill Retake helps you show your full potential. Every year millions of people around the world use their IELTS scores to achieve their study, work and migration goals. With the right preparation and guide, you can achieve the best score.

More support and news about One Skill Retake

Whether you need to find out how to book IELTS One Skill Retake, or you want to know 5 tips on how to best prepare for One Skill Retake, we're here for you. You can also check the difference between One Skill Retake and an Enquiry on Result (or a re-mark).

Who accepts IELTS One Skill Retake?

The Australian Department of Home Affairs accepts IELTS One Skill Retake (OSR) for most visa subclasses. We are also happy to announce that IELTS One Skill Retake is now accepted by Ahpra and National Boards, Engineers Australia and Chartered Accountants ANZ for registration in their respective sectors. Always check the website of the organisation you intend to apply to for more information about eligibility requirements.

Over 12,500 organisations around the world accept IELTS. You will need to check with these organisations to see if they also accept IELTS One Skill Retake results. You can learn more about the difference between your original IELTS Test Report Form (TRF) and your One Skill Retake results.

Ready to book your test? Only IELTS offers One Skill Retake.

Find a test centre where IELTS One Skill Retake is available, and have the chance at improving your score.