IELTS Validity – How long is IELTS score valid?

Validity of IELTS results

For the computer based test, the results will be released within 5 to 7 days but for pen and paper based test, it is 13 days, from the date of sitting the exam. IELTS result is valid for two years from the date of issue of the test result. The IELTS system automatically deactivates the test result when it reaches its 2nd year. 

The 2-year validity of IELTS exam is based upon the phenomenon of second language loss or ‘attrition’.

The phenomenon of second language attrition

Second-language attrition is the steady decrease of second-language skills in an individual, which occurs whenever the learner uses the second language to a lesser degree. The language use may be limited due to various reasons and thus, another language becomes dominant.

Theories of forgetting

It is important to know about the various research activities conducted on memory to understand second language attrition in detail.

Decay theory says that if something new is learned, a memory trace is created. This trace will decay, if not used in the course of time, and by this process, forgetting occurs.

Based on the recent studies scientists report that it is evident that all the four competence areas are affected. Some of them tend to be more affected than others. Examples could be:

• Grammar
• Lexical resource

There are various ways in which it can be observed. They are:

• Speech tempo decreases
• Longer and frequent speech pauses
• Fluency suffers 
• reduced accessibility in vocabulary retrieval ( Both in familiar and unfamiliar situations)
• A gap in grammar (especially tenses and conjunction of verbs)

All these factors contribute to the loss of language over a period of time.

Misconceptions about IELTS validity period

Misconception 1: IELTS validity varies across countries.

Clarification: The validity period of 2 years is the same throughout the world. So the terms “IELTS exam validity period for New Zealand/India” are meaningless.

Misconception 2: IELTS validity period is different for pen and paper based test and computer delivered test.

Clarification: The validity period of 2 years is the same regardless of the mode of taking the test.

Misconception 3: IELTS validity period is different for Academic module and General module

Clarification: The validity period of 2 years is the same regardless of the module.

No extension on Validity

There is no provision to extend the validity period of the IELTS test. Once it expires you have no option, but to retake the test.

Also check : 

• How to get band 8 in IELTS
• IELTS Test dates
• IELTS Test centres
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• Universities in Australia accepting IELTS Score 6
• Universities in UK accepting IELTS Score 6
• Universities in Canada accepting IELTS Score for MBA
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