How to Get IELTS Certificate: A Complete Guide for International Students

Latest Update:  The upcoming latest IELTS May test dates are as follows: 08th May, 2025 (recently closed) 17th May. 2025 24th May, 2025

More than 3 million IELTS (International English Language Testing System) exams are taken annually, making it the most widely used English language test. For Indian students aspiring to study, work, or migrate abroad, obtaining an IELTS certificate is often a mandatory step. 

This comprehensive guide explores the process for obtaining your IELTS certificate, offering clear strategic steps from registration to receiving your results. By the end of this blog, you'll have a detailed understanding of how to get IELTS certificate and each phase of it, ensuring you're well-prepared for this crucial examination.

How to Get IELTS Certificate: Test Declaration & Process

As IELTS is recognized by over 11,000 institutions in more than 140 countries, the IELTS exam results are vital evidence used by universities, employers, and immigration authorities worldwide to assess your language proficiency levels.

Whether you're aiming for a student visa in Canada, a job in the UK, or a work permit in Australia, your IELTS certificate holds value across the globe. 

The IELTS test offers two main types of certificates: Academic and General Training, each serving a different purpose.

1. Academic IELTS: This version is primarily for students applying to study at universities or higher education institutions where English is the primary language of instruction, such as Oxford and the Australian National University.

It assesses your ability to understand and work with complex academic materials, such as textbooks, lectures, and research papers.

1. General Training IELTS: This version is intended for those applying for migration, work experience, or training programs in English-speaking countries. 

The test evaluates practical English language skills more aligned with everyday situations rather than academic contexts.

Choosing between the two depends on your goals: academic advancement or migration/work opportunities. Select the test type that aligns with your requirements to avoid confusion and wasted effort.

Now, let's see how to get IELTS certificate along with the complete process for obtaining your IELTS certificate.

The Process for Obtaining Your IELTS Certificate

Obtaining an IELTS certificate is a well-structured process, but it can be overwhelming for first-timers. Many first-timers face hurdles such as choosing the correct test type, managing time effectively, and overcoming test anxiety, which can impact their overall performance.

Understanding each phase of the IELTS process, from registration to receiving your results, is key to avoiding mistakes and ensuring a smooth journey. 

Here's a detailed, step-by-step breakdown of the process for obtaining your IELTS certificate with actionable insights and tips to help you succeed.

Step 1: Register for the IELTS Test

Registration for the IELTS test is the first official step toward obtaining your certificate, but there's more to it than simply signing up.

• Online Registration: Registration for IELTS must be done from exam provider i.e. British Council, or Cambridge. As of latest, over 1,600 test centers are available globally, including 36 centers across India.
• Choose Test Type: Depending on your goals (study, work, migration), choose between Academic IELTS or General Training IELTS. More than 50% of test-takers opt for the Academic test due to its relevance to higher education.
• Test Date Selection: IELTS exams are conducted multiple times a month. To avoid a last-minute rush and ensure availability, it's advisable to book at least 6-8 weeks in advance, especially if you're aiming for specific deadlines like university applications.
• Fee Payment: The IELTS exam fee in India generally ranges from INR 14K to 15.5K, which covers the entire exam process. These costs reflect the standard market rate for IELTS in India, but fees may vary slightly across test centers.

Step 2: Prepare for the IELTS Exam

Your IELTS exam preparation plays a crucial role in determining your success. A solid prep plan is critical; with a little strategy, you can master the test sections efficiently.

• Understand the Test Format: IELTS is divided into four types: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. Each section is scored on a band scale from 1 to 9; your overall score is an average.
  • The Listening test is 30 minutes long, consisting of 4 recordings.
  • The Reading section is 60 minutes and includes 3 passages.
  • The Writing section, also 60 minutes, requires you to complete 2 tasks (one essay and one report/letter).
  • The Speaking test is a face-to-face interview lasting 11-14 minutes.
• Effective Study Plan: Divide your study time between understanding the format, practicing questions, and taking timed mock tests to simulate exam conditions.
• Practice Makes Perfect: Use official prep resources such as IELTS Official Practice Materials. For example, IELTS Listening Practice Tests can help you score higher.
• Mock Tests: Aim for at least 4-5 full-length practice tests before the actual exam, which will likely improve their scores.

Step 3: Take the IELTS Test

This is where all your preparation pays off. You've registered, you’ve studied, and now it’s time to face the exam. Here's how to ensure you're ready:

• Arrival Time: Arriving early is critical. Be there at least 30 minutes before the test begins. The test center follows strict check-in procedures, and delays could prevent you from sitting the exam.
• Test Sections Breakdown:
  • Listening and Reading are computer-based in most centers, though some still have paper-based options.
  • Writing remains paper-based.
  • Speaking is a face-to-face interview with a trained examiner. Many students find this part challenging due to nervousness, but remember, it’s an opportunity to showcase your communication skills.

Step 4: Receive Your Results

Your results are released 13 days after the test date, but here's what you should know to prepare for that moment.

• How Scores Are Calculated: Your IELTS band score is based on the average of the four section scores. For example, if your scores are 8.0 (Listening), 7.0 (Reading), 6.5 (Writing), and 7.5 (Speaking), your overall band score will be 7.0.
• Digital Results: Results are available online after 13 days. You can access them through the test provider's portal.
• Physical Results: A hard copy of your Test Report Form (TRF) will be sent to your registered address. You can request additional copies for a small fee, which can be sent directly to universities or employers.

By following this clear, structured process, you’ll be equipped to confidently tackle the IELTS exam, whether it's for university admissions, immigration, or employment opportunities abroad.

Maximize your IELTS score with upGrad's free IELTS preparation course, featuring focused lessons, expert feedback, key practice for writing tasks, and more!

Now that you know how to get IELTS certificate, let's see what to do after getting your results and how to use it effectively for your goals.

What to Do After Receiving Your IELTS Certificate?

Once you download your IELTS score card, the real journey begins. This certificate is not just a document; it’s your key to unlocking educational opportunities, employment, and migration abroad. However, simply having the certificate isn't enough. 

Knowing how to use it effectively can save you time, reduce confusion, and maximize your chances of success.

Here’s how and where to use it:

• For Study: Universities worldwide, including over 1,200 institutions in the UK alone, require you to submit your IELTS Test Report Form (TRF) as part of your admission process.
• For Work: Many multinational companies and organizations, especially in countries like Canada and Australia, use IELTS scores to verify English proficiency for hiring and visa eligibility. 

In fact, around 75% of Canadian employers prefer candidates with a valid IELTS certificate.

• For Migration: Immigration authorities in countries such as Australia, New Zealand, and the UK rely heavily on IELTS results for visa approval. For example, Australia's Skilled Migration Program requires a minimum IELTS score of 6.0 or above in each module.

Getting these details right after you receive your certificate helps you avoid delays in admissions, visa applications, or job offers.

Before you start sending your IELTS certificate to institutions or employers, it's essential to understand how long your scores remain valid and what that means for your plans.

Let's see ahead!

Understanding the Validity of Your IELTS Certificate

The validity of your IELTS certificate is crucial when planning your next steps, as the score remains valid for only 2 years from the date of your exam. 

This time frame exists because your English proficiency may change over time, and institutions or immigration authorities want to ensure your skills are up to date. 

• For instance, if you plan to apply to universities such as Stanford University or submit your IELTS scores for a visa application, schedule your test with enough time for processing and deadlines, keeping the validity period in mind. 
• Some institutions, particularly those for immigration purposes, may require a test date closer to your application submission, as seen with the UK Home Office, which mandates that IELTS results be within 2 years for visa applications.
• If your certificate expires, you’ll have to retake the exam, which means additional costs and valuable preparation time that could delay your plans. 

So, planning ahead is vital to ensure your score doesn’t expire right when you need it.

Once you’re clear on the validity of your IELTS certificate, the next step is to share it with the relevant authorities or organizations. Here's how you do it efficiently.

How Do You Send Your IELTS Test Report Form (TRF) to Institutions?

How you send your IELTS scores directly impacts your application process, so understanding how to do this properly is essential. For instance, most top-tier universities, such as Harvard or the University of Melbourne, require IELTS scores to be sent directly from the test center for verification. 

This ensures authenticity and prevents fraudulent submissions. Depending on the requirements of the institution or organization, you may need to either submit physical copies or utilize electronic submission systems. 

Misunderstanding the procedure could lead to delays in admissions, so it's important to know the exact requirements of the institution you're applying to.

So here are the steps to keep in mind while sending your TRFs to institutions:

• Official Copies: You will receive one original Test Report Form (TRF). Most universities or employers ask for an official copy sent directly by the test center or uploaded via an official portal.
• Additional Copies: You can request up to 5 extra copies for free at the time of registration, or order them later for a fee.
• Electronic Submission: Many institutions now accept digital submissions through the IELTS partners' official channels.
• Direct Delivery by Test Center: Some organizations require the TRF to be sent directly by the test center for verification. Confirm this with the institution before sending your copy.
• Keep a Copy: Always keep a scanned copy or photograph of your TRF for your records and future reference.

Sometimes you may feel your score doesn't reflect your actual ability. Here’s what you can do if you want to challenge your results.

What to Do if You Need to Re-mark Your IELTS Results?

If you're dissatisfied with your IELTS scores or feel an error has been made in the marking, requesting a re-mark (an Enquiry on Results or EOR) is your next step. 

This process is often overlooked, but it can be the key to achieving the score you need, especially if you're on the brink of meeting entry requirements for prestigious institutions or visa approvals. 

However, it’s important to note that revaluation results don't always lead to a score change; statistically, only about 1-2% of re-mark requests result in a change. Despite this, the process offers a chance to review your performance and potentially secure the higher score you need. 

So, here are the key details to consider while you opt for this option:

• Time Limit: You must apply for a re-mark within 6 weeks of your test date.
• Cost: The re-marking fee in India is around INR 13.5K, which will be refunded if your score changes.
• What Gets Re-marked? You can request a re-mark of any or all of the four test components: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.
• Processing Time: Results of the re-mark typically take 2-3 weeks.
• Impact on Scores: Scores can go up or down after a re-mark, so be prepared for any outcome.

There you go! 

Also Read: IELTS Average Score by Country: Academic & General Detailed

Now that you have a solid understanding of how to send your IELTS Test Report Form and what to do if you need to re-mark your results, it's time to focus on the next key step: avoiding common mistakes.

Common Mistakes in the IELTS Application and Test Process

The IELTS application and test process can be tricky, and even a small mistake can significantly impact your outcome. From registration errors to preparation missteps, many candidates unknowingly set themselves up for failure. 

These errors not only waste time and money but can also delay your goals, whether it's applying for university, getting a job abroad, or meeting immigration requirements. 

Let’s understand the critical mistakes that can trip up your IELTS journey and how to sidestep them effectively.

Registration Mistakes to Avoid

The registration process might seem like the easiest part of your IELTS journey, but many candidates make mistakes here that can create unnecessary complications. 

Whether choosing the wrong test type or failing to meet essential deadlines, these errors can prevent you from sitting the exam or delay your application process. 

• Choosing the Wrong Test Type: One of the most common mistakes is choosing the wrong test type: Academic vs General Training. 

Make sure you select the test that aligns with your goals. If you're applying for university admissions, the Academic test is required, while the General Training test is for migration or work experience purposes.

• Incorrect Personal Details: Double-check all personal information (like your name and passport number) when registering. Even a small typo could cause discrepancies with your identification documents on test day, which may prevent you from taking the exam.
• Forgetting to Required Documents: Some centers require additional documents, such as a passport-sized photograph or proof of identity. Missing these could result in a rejected application.
• Late Registration: IELTS exam slots are booked months in advance, especially during peak periods. Registering too late can limit your options and force you to select dates that don't align with application deadlines.
• Not Confirming Your Test Venue: Always confirm the location of your test center. Test centers sometimes change places, and showing up at the wrong venue can result in missing your exam.

Next, let’s see the common preparation mistakes.

Key Preparation Mistakes That Can Affect Your IELTS Score

Many candidates make preparation mistakes that significantly affect their band scores, especially when they don't understand the test format, skip vital sections, or ignore time constraints. 

The IELTS exam is designed to test a wide range of language skills, and focusing only on a few areas can result in an overall lower score. Here's how to avoid the most common preparation mistakes impacting your performance:

• Not Familiarizing Yourself with the Test Format: Failing to understand what to expect in the Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking sections can leave you unprepared for the types of questions you'll face. 

For example, not knowing that the Listening vocabulary section involves multiple-choice questions, matching, and short-answer responses can be a disadvantage.

• Neglecting Practice Under Real Exam Conditions: Taking practice tests is essential, but practicing without the time constraints of the actual exam won't help you build the necessary time management skills. 

Simulate the real exam experience by timing yourself and following all the test rules.

• Overlooking Weak Areas: Focusing only on the sections where you are already strong can be a big mistake. 

Many students focus on reading and listening, but neglect writing and speaking. Weak performance in any section can drastically affect your overall score.

• Ignoring Task Requirements in Writing: It’s easy to lose focus and write off-topic responses in the Writing section. 

For instance, in IELTS writing task 2, you must present an argument or opinion on a specific issue, but deviating from the topic can reduce your score drastically. Ensure your response is relevant, well-organized, and adequately addresses the question.

• Not Practicing Speaking Enough: The speaking test often intimidates candidates, but it's important to practice speaking English regularly. 

Students who don't engage in English conversations outside study sessions tend to get nervous during the speaking test. Consider practicing with peers or even recording yourself to improve fluency and confidence.

By being mindful of these common mistakes and preparing strategically, you’ll set yourself up for a successful IELTS exam experience. 

Also Read: 50+ Essential Idioms for IELTS Speaking to Improve Fluency

Let’s explore some effective tips and strategies to help you excel in every section of the IELTS exam, ensuring you achieve the score you need for your goals.

IELTS Tips and Strategies for Success

Preparing for the IELTS exam is about knowing the right strategies to maximize your score in each section. 

Whether you're struggling with listening comprehension, facing difficulties writing essays, or nervous about the speaking test, a few targeted IELTS last minute tips can make all the difference.

Here’s how to enhance your performance in each section and maximize your study time.

1. Listening: How to Enhance Listening Skills

Listening is often among the most challenging sections, mainly because of the speed and variety of accents. But with focused strategies, you can significantly improve your listening skills.

• Listen Actively: Practice listening to different accents and contexts, whether it's British, American, Australian, or Canadian English. Platforms like BBC Learning English and TED Talks are great resources for diverse accents.
• Focus on Keywords: Don't try to write every word during the listening test. Instead, focus on identifying key information: dates, names, places, and numbers. The answers are often embedded in key terms, so identifying these can help you stay on track.
• Use Practice Tests: Practice listening to test materials from IELTS practice papers. This will help you become familiar with the types of questions, such as multiple choice, fill-in-the-blank, and matching questions.

2. Reading: Skimming and Scanning Techniques

In the reading section, time management is key. You'll have 60 minutes to complete 40 questions, so knowing how to find information quickly is crucial.

• Skimming: Before reading each passage in detail, quickly skim through the entire text to understand the topic and structure. Look at the headings, subheadings, and any bolded or italicized words. This will help you predict the kind of information you’ll be looking for when answering questions.
• Scanning: For specific details, such as numbers, names, or dates, scan the passage. Focus on finding these particular details without reading the entire passage word-for-word.
• Highlight Keywords: While scanning or skimming, highlight or underline key words to keep track of important information and potential answers.
• Practice Under Time Constraints: Using reading practice materials to complete the section in under 60 minutes helps build speed and accuracy.

3. Writing: Writing Tips for Band 7+ (Structure, Vocabulary)

Many candidates lose valuable points in the writing section, especially if they fail to meet the band score criteria. A Band 7+ score in writing requires more than good grammar; it demands structure, coherence, and a rich vocabulary.

• Task 1 (Academic): In this task, you'll need to describe data from a graph or chart. Always begin by paraphrasing the question to show you understand the information. Focus on summarizing the key trends or features in the data, not just listing facts.
• Task 2 (Both Academic and General Training): Your essay should have a clear introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Avoid jumping into your opinion immediately. First, explain the issue, then provide a clear argument supported by evidence.
• Use Cohesive Devices: Use transition words and phrases (moreover, furthermore, in addition) to improve the flow of your writing. This helps in cohesion, a key criterion for a higher band score.
• Expand Your Vocabulary: To score higher, use topic-specific vocabulary and avoid repetition. For instance, instead of using "good" repeatedly, use synonyms like "beneficial," "effective," or "advantageous."

4. Speaking: How to Build Confidence and Perform Well in Speaking Tests

The speaking test often causes anxiety, but confidence is the key to performing well. Here's how to approach the IELTS speaking test and ensure you speak clearly and fluently.

• Practice Speaking Regularly: Build confidence by practicing common speaking topics, English conversations with friends, family, or online language partners. Record yourself speaking and listen back to identify areas for improvement.
• Structure Your Responses: For each speaking task, have a clear introduction, main points, and conclusion. For example, when answering “Describe a time when…” begin with a brief introduction to the topic, then explain the details, and finish with your thoughts on the experience.
• Don’t Overthink: During the test, focus on speaking naturally. If you don’t understand a question, don't panic; ask the examiner to repeat it. Nervousness often affects fluency, so staying calm is essential.
• Use Natural Intonation: Pay attention to your pronunciation and intonation. The examiner is not just listening to the words, but also to how clearly you speak.

By incorporating these tips and strategies into your preparation, you'll approach the IELTS exam with confidence and clarity.

How Can upGrad Help You Achieve Your IELTS Goals?

Achieving your ideal IELTS score requires more than just sitting for the exam; it’s about adequate preparation and overcoming challenges. Understanding the test format, avoiding common mistakes, and using the right strategies are essential. However, preparing for IELTS while juggling other responsibilities can be overwhelming.

That's where upGrad comes in. With personalized coaching and expert guidance, upGrad helps you pinpoint areas of improvement and provides the support you need to succeed. Our specialized approach ensures you're ready and confident for your exam.

So why wait? Book a career counseling session with upGrad experts for insights and a customized study plan that fits your goals!