Enquiry on Results (EOR) is the official process that allows a candidate to request a re-mark of their IELTS test scores if they believe their result may not accurately reflect their performance.
It is a formal score review conducted by qualified examiners.
This process is commonly used when candidates feel one skill score is unexpectedly low.
What Can Be Reviewed
Candidates may request a review of:
- Listening
- Reading
- Writing
- Speaking
- Entire test result
Depending on local test centre policies, you may choose one or multiple modules.
How It Works
After submitting an Enquiry on Results request:
- Your test is sent for re-evaluation
- A senior examiner or independent examiner reviews the score
- Original marks may stay the same, increase, or rarely decrease (depending on policy and process updates)
Writing and Speaking are the most commonly reviewed sections because they involve examiner judgment.
Best Sections for EOR
Writing
Useful if you expected a stronger score based on past performance.
Speaking
Useful if your test performance felt significantly better than the band awarded.
Listening / Reading
Less common because these are objective answer-based sections, though clerical checks may still apply.
When Candidates Usually Consider EOR
You may consider it if:
- You missed a required band by 0.5
- One score is much lower than your others
- Your result differs sharply from recent practice scores
- You need a score urgently for visa, study, or work purposes
Example Scenario
A candidate receives:
- Listening 8.0
- Reading 8.5
- Writing 6.5
- Speaking 8.0
If Writing seems unusually low and they need 7.0, an EOR may be worth considering.
Time Limits
Requests usually must be made within a limited period after results release (commonly a few weeks), but exact deadlines depend on your test provider and country.
Always check your local test centre.
Fees
There is normally a fee for Enquiry on Results.
In many cases:
- Fee may be refunded if the score changes
Policies vary by provider and location.
How Long It Takes
Results may take:
- a few days
- one week
- several weeks
depending on location, test type, and modules reviewed.
Common Problems Candidates Face
Requesting Without Reason
Not every disappointing score changes.
Reviewing Objective Sections Only
Listening/Reading changes are less common.
Missing Deadlines
Late requests may not be accepted.
Emotional Decisions
Use evidence from performance and history.
High-Scoring Strategy (When Deciding)
Good Reasons to Apply
- Consistent mock scores higher
- Strong confidence in Speaking/Writing performance
- Need only +0.5 band
Weaker Reasons
- Simply unhappy with score
- No clear performance basis
- Large jump expected without evidence
Important Notes
Policies can vary by:
- British Council
- IDP Education
- Country-specific centres
- Computer or paper delivery formats
Always confirm current local rules.
Quick Tips
- Writing and Speaking are most common EOR choices.
- Apply before deadline.
- Keep realistic expectations.
- Check refund policy first.
Why Strong Candidates Use It Wisely
Well-informed candidates use Enquiry on Results strategically when a score appears inconsistent and a small band increase would make a major difference.
