Why do many candidates have to adjust their IELTS test scores?

TPO - IELTS has discovered a technical issue that caused some candidates to receive incorrect results. All affected candidates have been contacted via email to inform them of the adjustment of their test results.

Many IELTS test takers from 2023 to September 2025 are advised to check their mailboxes because their test scores may change due to a technical error.

A candidate unexpectedly received an email informing him of a technical problem affecting some IELTS tests.

“This has resulted in a change to your component scores (Listening, Reading) and an increase in your overall score. We regret that your original score was not calculated correctly and sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this may cause,” IDP said in a letter to test takers from 2024.

Hoang Anh ( Hanoi ) said that she took the IELTS test in June 2024 but it was not until November 12 that she unexpectedly received a letter informing her of the change in results. Accordingly, Hoang Anh's Reading score increased from 7.0 to 8.0 compared to the previous result.

Although the score was raised, it did not mean much to her because the result was used for university admission in 2025.

Many IELTS test takers from 2023 to September 2025 are advised to check their mailboxes because their test scores may change due to a technical error.

According to the candidates, after receiving the letter from IELTS, they were directed to view the updated scores and access the test report form on the portal. This also means that the previous test report form is no longer valid for use.

BC and IDP have proposed a solution to the problem by allowing candidates to retake the test completely free of charge or receive a 100% refund of the test fee. Candidates wishing to do so will fill in the application form before May 1, 2026. For those wishing to receive a refund of the test fee, the unit will process the request within 30 days from the date of receiving the candidate's request.

On November 13, responding to the press, an IELTS spokesperson said that recently, IELTS discovered a technical problem that led to a small percentage of candidates receiving inaccurate results between August 2003 and September 2025.

Over 99% of IELTS tests globally during this period were unaffected and there are currently no incidents affecting ongoing tests.

It is understood that IELTS has been working with registration organisations, test centres, regulatory bodies and relevant authorities on the matter.

IELTS confirms that the technical issue has been identified and fully resolved. Additional safeguards are in place to prevent this issue.

However, information about candidates having their IELTS scores adjusted up or down has attracted the attention of many people.

Some universities have informed that they will review in detail candidates who used ILETS scores for university admission in 2025 to ensure accuracy and transparency in the admission process.

Source: https://tienphong.vn/vi-sao-nhieu-thi-sinh-phai-dieu-chinh-diem-thi-ielts-post1796020.tpo