IELTS announced on 24 October 2023 that UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) has approved IELTS One Skill Retake for use under the Secure English Language Test (SELT) requirements. Candidates who take IELTS for UKVI and miss the score they need in one skill can retake that skill alone.
Key facts
- Announced 24 October 2023
- Approved by UK Visas and Immigration
- Test IELTS for UKVI
- Today On computer in selected locations, within 60 days, once per test
How it works now
The 2023 announcement did not give a start date or list of locations. The current IELTS booking page says One Skill Retake is accepted by UKVI for IELTS Academic and General Training taken on computer in selected locations. The retake must be booked and sat within 60 days of the original test, and only one retake is allowed per original test. Results come in three to five days on a new Test Report Form, and you can choose to use either the original or the new form.
Why it matters
Many UK visa routes set a minimum CEFR level in each skill, so a single weak section can block an application. Retaking one section avoids paying for and sitting the full test again.
What this means
If you plan to use IELTS for UKVI, check before you book whether your centre offers One Skill Retake for the UKVI version, since it is not available everywhere. Book the original test early enough that a retake within 60 days still fits before your visa deadline. If you fall short in two or more skills, you will need to resit the full test. Confirm the level you need for your route on GOV.UK before choosing between a retake and a full test.