IELTS adjusts scores for multiple test-takers in Vietnam

Several Vietnamese test-takers on Wednesday shared on social media groups for IELTS preparation that they had received emails informing them of revised scores.

The emails explained that a technical error had impacted certain tests.

According to the notice, the issue led to changes in the component scores for the Listening and Reading sections, which could also affect the overall band score.

Test-takers are advised to log in to the IELTS Test Taker Portal to view their updated results and download the new official Test Report Form (TRF).

IELTS emphasized that the previous TRF is no longer valid once the updated form has been issued.

The technical error affected tests taken from mid-2023 through September 2025.

Most score adjustments ranged from 0.5 to 1 band.

One candidate, who took the IELTS organized by the British Council on May 18, 2024, said his Reading score had originally been reported as 7.0, significantly lower than expected.

Though he doubted his score, he thought that the scoring system could not be wrong.

However, after receiving the email about the issue and checking the updated results, his Reading score was corrected to 8.5, representing a 1.5-band increase.

Many test-takers who have received the emails reported that the adjustments were of limited practical significance.

Most had already used their original IELTS scores for university applications or study abroad purposes and did not require the revised results, as significant time had passed.

Nevertheless, IELTS has offered affected candidates the option of a full refund or a free retake.

This entitlement can be claimed by submitting an online form by May 1, 2026.

Refund processing is expected to take up to 60 working days after IELTS receives all necessary information.