Understanding the IELTS Results Enquiry Process for Paper-Based vs. Computer

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Understanding the IELTS Results Enquiry Process for Paper-Based vs. Computer

IELTS Enquiry on Results Paper vs Computer

Sometimes, your IELTS result might not reflect what you expected—and that’s when the Enquiry on Results (EOR) process comes in. Whether you’ve taken the IELTS on Paper or IELTS on Computer, this process allows you to request a re-evaluation of your test, ensuring fairness and accuracy in every score awarded.

Why the Enquiry on Results (EOR) Matters

The Enquiry on Results (EOR) is an official process that allows IELTS candidates to request a re-mark of one or more sections of their test if they believe their scores do not accurately reflect their performance. This process ensures fairness and transparency, giving candidates confidence in their results.
Whether you have taken the IELTS Exam on Paper or the IELTS Exam on Computer, the EOR process is designed to maintain consistent standards across all test formats.

Overview of the IELTS Results Enquiry Process

An Enquiry on Results is a formal review of your IELTS test scores conducted by senior examiners who were not involved in your original marking. Candidates may consider requesting an EOR if they believe an error occurred in the scoring of their Listening, Reading, Writing, or Speaking modules.
Requests must be submitted within six weeks of the test date, regardless of whether the test was paper-based or computer-delivered. If your band score changes after the review, your fee is fully refunded, and a new Test Report Form (TRF) will be issued. However, if there is no change, the original result remains valid.

The Role of Delivery Mode in Processing Your Scores

Both paper-based and computer-delivered IELTS tests follow the same assessment criteria, but their processing timelines differ.

Result Timelines:

  • Paper-Based IELTS: Results are typically released 13 days after the test.
  • Computer-Delivered IELTS: Results are usually available within 1–5 days.

Please refer to the Terms and Conditions available at: https://ielts.cert.ae/enquiry-on-results/

These differences can also influence how quickly an Enquiry on Results is processed. Because the IELTS Exam on Computers involves digital storage of test materials, examiners can access and review files faster. However, for both modes, the duration of the re-mark depends on the number of modules you select. Writing and Speaking sections may take longer to review than Listening or Reading.

Eligibility and Documents You’ll Need

To submit an EOR request, candidates must provide:

  • A valid passport or national ID used during test registration.
  • The original Test Report Form (TRF).
  • A completed EOR application form, which can be obtained from your test centre or its website.
  • Proof of payment for the re-marking fee.

These documents verify your identity and authorize IELTS examiners to re-evaluate your test materials. Some centres may request additional administrative details, so it is important to follow the specific instructions of your test provider.

Step-by-Step Guide to Submitting a Results Enquiry

  1. Locate the EOR form through your test centre’s website or request it directly from their office.
  2. Indicate the modules you wish to have re-marked;  Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking, or all.
  3. Pay the required fee using an accepted method (credit card, bank transfer, or cash, depending on the centre).
  4. Submit your documents (TRF, ID, and form) either online or in person.
  5. Track your request through your test centre.

The EOR process typically takes:

  • Up to 1 week for the IELTS Exam on Computer.
  • Up to 3 weeks for the IELTS Exam on Paper, depending on the modules selected.

Since Writing and Speaking tests are reassessed manually by senior examiners, they may require additional processing time compared to Listening or Reading.

Cost and Refund Policy Explained

In the UAE, the fee for an Enquiry on Results (EOR) varies depending on the test centre, but the average cost is AED 630. Payment can be made online or directly at the test centre.

If your band score increases after re-marking, you will receive a full refund of the fee and a new Test Report Form (TRF) reflecting your updated result. If the score remains unchanged, no refund is provided. This policy applies to both the IELTS Exam on Paper and the IELTS Exam on Computer, ensuring fairness and consistency across all formats.

Common FAQs about the Results Enquiry Process

1. Can I request an enquiry for only one section?

Yes, you can request a re-mark for one or more individual sections of the IELTS test. The fee remains the same regardless of the number of sections you choose to have re-marked. 

2. Will my score ever go down after re-marking?

No, your IELTS band score cannot decrease after an Enquiry on Results. It will either remain unchanged or increase.

3. How long does it take to receive an updated Test Report Form (TRF)?

The processing time for an EOR varies depending on several factors, including the number of sections requested for re-marking. Typically, you can expect to receive your updated TRF within 3 to 21 days after submitting your request.

Tips for a Successful Results Enquiry Experience

  • Review your test performance carefully before applying for re-marking. Focus on areas where you genuinely believe a scoring error may have occurred.
  • Seek professional feedback from an IELTS instructor before submitting your request.
  • Apply early to avoid missing the six-week deadline.
  • Retain copies of your application and receipts for tracking and record purposes.

These steps ensure your application is accurate and processed efficiently.

After the Enquiry: Next Steps and Re-Test Options

  • Once your Enquiry on Results is complete, you’ll receive an official confirmation of the outcome:
    If your score increases, you’ll be issued a new Test Report Form (TRF) reflecting your updated result.
    If your score remains the same, your original TRF stays valid for use in university or visa applications.
  • Either way, the EOR process reinforces IELTS’s commitment to fairness, accuracy, and reliability across all test formats.

Ready to take the next step?
 Visit ielts.cert.ae/enquiry-on-results for full details or to begin your EOR submission with CERT.

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