IELTS One Skill Retake: A game-changer for test takers

If you missed the targeted score because of the reading part, and got only by 0.5 points. Do not worry, because there is some good news for you. You do not have to give the whole exam just because you missed your desired score for one module.

Let’s introduce you to IELTS One Skill Retake (OSR), a much-needed update designed to make the IELTS journey a little smoother for test takers like you.

What is IELTS One Skill Retake?

Candidates may only take one IELTS test section – listening, Reading, writing, or speaking – during the IELTS One Skill Retake. Yes, just because one of the four modules didn't go as planned doesn't mean you have to retake them all.

Let’s say you scored:

• Listening: 8.0
• Reading: 7.5
• Speaking: 7.0
• Writing: 6.0

That writing score may be preventing you from reaching your goal of at least 6.5 in each skill. Previously, you would need to retake the entire IELTS exam. Right now? You can retake only the writing portion.

Why is this important?

The following factors make OSR a perfect game-changer:

1. Saves time and energy

Preparing for all four skills again can be challenging and time-consuming. By enabling you to focus solely on the skill that needs improvement, OSR increases the effectiveness and focus of your preparation.

2. Saves money

It is not cost-effective to take the IELTS exam more than once, and the entire test can be costly. OSR is more cost-effective because you are only paying to retake a single section of the test rather than the full one.

3. Reduces stress

There's no need to worry about destroying those parts because you already did a good job with them. With OSR, you only need to concentrate on honing one skill, and your previous scores are preserved.

How does it work?

Here's a thorough explanation:

• Take the IELTS exam in either the Academic or General Training format.
• Schedule a One Skill appointment. If you're not satisfied with your score for a particular skill, retake it.
• The OSR and your initial IELTS must be taken at the same testing site.
• Your updated Test Report Form (TRF) will show your best results from each section, both the original and the updated ones.

Note: You can take the OSR within 60 days of the date of your initial test.

What about universities and immigration?

That is an important question. Although not all of them do so yet, many universities and immigration authorities now accept IELTS OSR results.

Before scheduling the One Skill Retake, confirm that the organization or institution you plan to attend accepts OSR scores.

• -OSR is accepted at several UK universities
• -A few places in Australia
• -In Canada, the number of colleges is steadily increasing

As OSR gains popularity, more and more organizations are updating their policies.

Who can take IELTS OSR?

To be eligible, you must:

• Have taken the IELTS on a computer (OSR is not yet available for paper-based tests).
• Take the OSR at the same test centre where you took the original test.
• Retake the skill within 60 days of the original test date.

Check with your local centre (such as British Council or IDP) to see if it's available in Bangladesh or any of the other countries and test centres where it's currently available.

Should you go for it?

Here are some things to consider:

Go for OSR if:

• You’re confident your lower score doesn’t reflect your real ability.
• You have limited time before a university or visa deadline.
• You’re on a budget but still want to improve your overall band score.

Avoid OSR if:

• You need to improve in multiple skills.
• Your original test wasn't on a computer.
• You’re aiming for significant score improvement across the board.

Tips to prepare for One-Skill Retake

Since you’ll be focusing on just one skill, your preparation can be more targeted.
Here’s how:

Writing:

• Get expert feedback on your essays.
• Practice under timed conditions.
• Work on structure, coherence, and grammar.

Speaking:

• Practice speaking out loud on IELTS topics.
• Record yourself and evaluate fluency and pronunciation.
• Work with a tutor or a language partner.

Reading:

• Focus on skimming and scanning techniques.
• Practice different types of questions: matching, multiple choice, etc.
• Improve your vocabulary for better comprehension.

Listening:

• Listen to podcasts, lectures, and interviews.
• Take mock tests and analyze your mistakes.
• Practice note-taking during listening sessions.

How MIE English Academy can help you?

Do not worry if you want to win over every one of your modules so that you do not have to take the One Skill Retake. Got you here, MIE English Academy has everything required for you to get your desired dream.

Whether it’s writing, speaking, or Reading, our expert mentors will:

• Identify your weaknesses through mock tests.
• Provide personalized feedback and improvement plans.
• Conduct intensive skill-specific practice sessions.
• Offer simulation tests to boost your confidence before the retake.

We don’t just teach—we coach you toward your dream score!

And the best part? Our students have already started seeing success with One Skill Retake strategies tailored by our IELTS experts.