The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a critical exam for individuals aiming to study, work, or migrate to English-speaking countries. Traditionally, candidates who underperformed in one of the four modules - Listening, Reading, Writing, or Speaking - had to retake the entire exam.

However, since its introduction in 2023, the IELTS One Skill Retake option has revolutionized the process by allowing candidates to retake only the module they need to improve, making it more efficient and targeted. 

This article outlines the key features of the IELTS One Skill Retake, updated with the latest developments for 2025, to help test-takers navigate this game-changing option.

What is the IELTS One Skill Retake?

The IELTS One Skill Retake is designed to help candidates enhance their scores in a specific skill without retaking the entire test. This option is available for IELTS Academic and General Training tests conducted on a computer, as well as IELTS for UKVI (United Kingdom Visas and Immigration). 

It provides a focused, cost-effective, and flexible approach for candidates to achieve their desired band scores.

Key Features of the IELTS One Skill Retake

The IELTS One-Skill Retake is a significant advancement in the IELTS testing process, allowing candidates to retake only one module—Listening, Reading, Writing, or Speaking—if they believe they did not perform to their full potential. Below are the key features, updated with the latest information for 2025:

1. Targeted Improvement: The One Skill Retake enables candidates to focus on the specific skill they need to improve. Instead of retaking all four modules, candidates can dedicate their preparation to a single area, saving time and creating a more efficient study plan.

2. Cost-Effectiveness: Retaking a single module is generally less expensive than retaking the whole test. In India, for example, the fee for the IELTS One Skill Retake remains INR 16,250, equivalent to the cost of the initial computer-delivered IELTS test. This affordability makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious candidates.

3. Familiar Test Format: The One Skill Retake mirrors the format and timing of the original IELTS test for the chosen module. This familiarity reduces anxiety, as candidates face the same question types and tasks, allowing them to focus on improving their performance.

4. New Test Report Form (TRF): Upon completing the One Skill Retake, candidates receive a new Test Report Form that includes the updated score for the retaken module alongside the original scores for the other three modules. The TRF clearly indicates that it reflects an IELTS One Skill Retake result, ensuring transparency for institutions and employers. Candidates can choose to use either the original or updated TRF for their applications.

5. Eligibility and Time Frame: To be eligible, candidates must have completed a full IELTS test on a computer at a test center that offers the One-Skill Retake. The retake must be booked within 60 days of receiving the original test results, encouraging prompt action to address weaknesses. In 2025, this eligibility criterion remains unchanged, but more test centers worldwide have adopted this feature.

6. Streamlined Booking Process: Candidates can book their One Skill Retake through the IELTS Test Taker Portal. After logging in, they can view their results, select the skill to retake, choose a test date, and complete the registration process. A confirmation email with test details is sent upon booking, ensuring a seamless experience.

7. Expanded Global Availability: As of 2025, the IELTS One-Skill Retake is available in numerous countries, including Australia, Canada, India, Uruguay, Indonesia, and others. The program has expanded significantly since its initial rollout in Australia in 2023, with over 700 organizations worldwide, including the Australian Department of Home Affairs, Engineers Australia, and various universities, now accepting One Skill Retake scores. Test-takers should verify availability with their local test centers and confirm acceptance by their target institutions.

8. No Impact on Original Scores: The original scores from the full test remain valid and unchanged after a One Skill Retake. Candidates can choose to submit either their original or updated scores, offering flexibility when applying to educational institutions, employers, or immigration authorities.

9. Enhanced Support and Resources: In 2025, test-takers benefit from additional preparation resources tailored for the One Skill Retake. For instance, booking with the British Council grants free access to IELTS Ready Premium, a platform offering personalized study materials, practice tests, and masterclasses. Online resources like Gurully.com and E2 Language also provide mock tests and coaching to help candidates refine their skills for the retake.

Eligibility and Booking Process

To qualify for the IELTS One Skill Retake, candidates must meet the following requirements:

• Have completed a full IELTS test on a computer (paper-based tests are not eligible).

• Book the retake within 60 days of receiving their original test results.

• Use a test center that offers the One Skill Retake option.

Steps to Book an IELTS One Skill Retake:

1. Log in to your IELTS Profile: Access your account on the IELTS website or the test center’s portal where you registered for the original test.

2. View Your Results: Review your test results to confirm eligibility for a retake.

3. Select the Skill to Retake: Click the ‘Retake’ button next to the skill you wish to improve.

4. Choose a Test Date: Select a convenient date within the 60-day window.

5. Complete Registration: Provide the required personal information and pay the registration fee.

6. Receive Confirmation: An email confirmation with your test details will be sent after booking.

Results for the One Skill Retake are typically available within 3–5 days, allowing candidates to assess their progress quickly.

Benefits of the IELTS One Skill Retake

The One Skill Retake offers numerous advantages, making it a candidate-friendly option:

• Focused Preparation: Candidates can hone in on a single skill, increasing their chances of achieving the desired score.

• Reduced Stress: Eliminating the need to retake all four modules alleviates pressure, allowing for more confident preparation.

• Unlimited Retakes: There is no limit to the number of times a candidate can retake a specific skill, provided they meet eligibility criteria each time.

• Flexible Score Usage: Candidates can choose between their original and updated scores, offering strategic options for applications.

• Test-Taker Endorsements: Feedback from early adopters highlights the feature’s impact, with a Melbourne-based test-taker calling it “a game-changer” for providing a second chance to meet study or migration goals.

Comparing Rescheduling vs. Retaking

It’s important to distinguish between rescheduling an IELTS test and opting for a One Skill Retake:

• Rescheduling involves changing the date of a booked test due to reasons such as illness or personal emergencies, often with an administrative fee.

• Retaking: Involves registering for a new test to improve scores. The One Skill Retake allows candidates to focus on one skill, unlike a complete retake, which requires repeating all four modules.

Latest Updates for 2025

• Increased Acceptance: Over 700 organizations globally, including universities, professional bodies, and immigration authorities such as the Australian Department of Home Affairs, now accept IELTS One-Skill Retake scores. Candidates should verify acceptance with their target institutions.

• Wider Availability: The program has expanded to more countries, including India, Canada, Uruguay, and Indonesia, with ongoing rollouts to additional test centers.

• Enhanced Preparation Tools: Resources like IELTS Ready Premium and platforms like Gurully.com and E2 Language offer specialized coaching and mock tests to support One Skill Retake preparation.

• Test-Taker Feedback: Social media posts on X reflect enthusiasm for the One Skill Retake, with users praising its flexibility and ability to target specific areas of weakness without requiring a complete retake of the entire exam.

The IELTS One-Skill Retake, introduced in 2023 and expanded in 2025, is a transformative option for test-takers seeking to meet their academic, professional, or migration goals. 

By allowing candidates to retake a single module, it saves time, reduces costs, and alleviates stress, making the IELTS process more accessible and flexible. 

With its growing global availability, increased institutional acceptance, and enhanced preparation resources, the One Skill Retake empowers candidates to showcase their true English proficiency. 

For the latest information and to book a retake, visit the official IELTS website or contact your local test center.