Faster, cheaper, less stressful – that’s what IELTS One Skill Retake offers. This blog walks you through how it works, its advantages, who accepts it, and what you need to know before booking.

What is IELTS One Skill Retake?

IELTS One Skill Retake is an official feature that allows candidates to retake just one section of the IELTS test – Listening, Reading, Writing, or Speaking – instead of repeating the full exam. It follows the same format, timing, and scoring as the original exam.

Launched globally by IELTS partners (IDP and British Council) and gradually being recognized by institutions worldwide, this option allows candidates to keep valid scores in other skills while focusing only on the part they need to improve. In short: one skill, one retake, one more chance to reach your target band.

Advantages of IELTS One Skill Retake

If you’re wondering why IELTS One Skill Retake is worth considering, let’s break down the benefits that truly matter for test-takers.

Targeted improvement on one skill: Instead of re-preparing for all four sections, you can direct your energy toward the skill that needs the most attention. This targeted practice means sharper progress in less time.
Unchanged test structure and fairness: The retake follows the same format, timing, and scoring system as the original test. No surprises, no shortcuts, just a level playing field for a fair second attempt.
A brand-new Test Report Form (TRF): After your retake, you receive an updated TRF that showcases your improved score alongside your original valid results. It’s official, recognized, and ready to be sent to universities, employers, or immigration offices.
Retention of your valid scores: Strong in Listening? Solid in Reading? Those results remain untouched. You only rewrite the part you need, while your best performances continue to shine on your record.
Cost and time efficiency: Preparing for and paying for a full IELTS test is expensive. With One Skill Retake, you save money, reduce pressure, and focus only on the skill that makes the real difference.

Read more:

Who is eligible for IELTS One Skill Retake?

Not every test-taker can apply for IELTS One Skill Retake. Here are the key requirements you must meet.

Completed a full IELTS on a computer
Booked within 60 days of the original test date
Limited to one retake per full IELTS test
Available only at selected test centres
Offered for IELTS Academic, General Training, and IELTS for UKVI (computer-based only)

Who accepts IELTS One Skill Retake?

IELTS One Skill Retake is officially recognized by a growing list of universities, professional bodies, and immigration authorities worldwide. Your new Test Report Form (TRF) is equally valid as a full IELTS result, but acceptance policies depend on each institution.

👉 Check the official list of organizations that currently accept IELTS One Skill Retake here: British Council – Recognising Organisations

How to book IELTS One Skill Retake

Ready for your second chance? Let’s walk through the full booking journey together.

Step 1: Sign in to your IELTS profile

Use the same IELTS account you created when booking your original test.

Step 2: Go to your test history

Under your profile, open the section showing your past IELTS test results.

Step 3: Select “One Skill Retake”

Next to your eligible test result, you’ll see the One Skill Retake option. Click to begin.

Step 4: Choose the skill you want to retake

Select Listening, Reading, Writing, or Speaking – but only one skill per test session.

Step 5: Pick your test centre and date

OSR is available only at selected centres. Choose a centre that offers the option, and book within 60 calendar days of your original test date.

Step 6: Confirm your details and pay the fee

Double-check your personal details, review the test date, and complete payment to finalize your booking.

Step 7: Receive confirmation

You’ll get an official booking confirmation by email. Keep this safe because it includes your test day details.

How much does IELTS One Skill Retake cost?

The fee for IELTS One Skill Retake is set by each test centre, so prices vary across countries. What stays the same is that OSR is always cheaper than retaking the full IELTS test. Below are some official fees in popular test locations:

Country	One Skill Retake Fee
Australia	AUD $300
Hong Kong	HK$1,629
India	INR 11,300
United Kingdom (Manchester)	£160
United Kingdom (Nottingham)	£165
Vietnam	VND 2,940,000 (IELTS Academic/General Training) · VND 3,320,000 (IELTS for UKVI)

Key notes for IELTS One Skill Retake

Before booking your IELTS One Skill Retake, keep these important points in mind – small details that can make a big difference.

One skill, one retake, one time only: You can only retake one skill per test session, and just once for each full IELTS attempt. There are no “do-overs” beyond that.
Book within 60 days: The retake must be scheduled within 60 calendar days of your original IELTS test date. Miss this window, and your only option is a full retake.
Available for computer-based tests only: IELTS One Skill Retake applies to Academic, General Training, and UKVI, but only if your first test was taken on a computer. Paper-based test-takers aren’t eligible.
Not offered everywhere: OSR is gradually rolling out, so availability depends on the test centre. Always confirm with your chosen centre before planning your booking.
A new TRF, with all your scores: After the retake, you’ll receive a fresh Test Report Form that shows your new score for the chosen skill, along with your original valid results. This TRF is official and can be sent to universities, employers, or immigration authorities.
Be ready – lower scores do count: If your score drops in the retake, the new TRF will still reflect it. Institutions will see the updated version, so only book when you’re prepared to improve.

See also: Common IELTS Mistakes and how to avoid them

Conclusion

One weak skill shouldn’t hold back your whole dream. With IELTS One Skill Retake, you get the chance to focus, refine, and rise without wasting time, money, or energy on what you’ve already mastered.

If you’re aiming for that extra band to meet your study, work, or visa goal, IELTS One Skill Retake is your second chance made official. Ready to take it? Explore more resources and start practicing with IELTS Test Pro today.

FAQs

Can I take a One Skill Retake at a different test centre?

No. You must book and sit your IELTS One Skill Retake at the same test centre where you took your original computer-based IELTS test. Availability varies, so always confirm with your centre before planning.

What’s the OSR results time?

Results are typically released within 3-5 days after your retake, the same timeframe as a standard computer-based IELTS test.

What happens if my score is lower on the retake?

Your new Test Report Form (TRF) will show the updated lower score. Institutions will see the retake result, so it’s best to book OSR only when you’re well prepared.

How long are OSR scores valid?

OSR scores are valid for two years, just like a full IELTS test score.

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