How to Send Your IELTS Scores to Universities – Step-by-Step Guide
Once you’ve taken the IELTS test, the next big step is making sure your scores reach the universities or institutions you’re applying to. This part is essential—after all, your IELTS results are a key part of proving your English proficiency for admissions or visa requirements.
Let’s break down exactly how to access your scores and send them securely to universities and organisations.
What Is an IELTS Test Report Form (TRF)?
After your test, you’ll receive your IELTS Test Report Form (TRF). This is your official scorecard, and it comes in two formats:
- Paper copy (physical document)
- Electronic copy (eTRF), which is a secure digital version
The TRF includes your overall band score as well as your scores in Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. This is the document universities and institutions use to assess your English language ability.
How Do Universities Verify IELTS Scores?
Universities don’t just take your word for it—they use the IELTS Results Verification Service, a secure platform that allows them to confirm your scores directly with IELTS. But first, you need to send them your results.
How to Send IELTS Scores – Two Methods
There are two main ways to share your IELTS scores, and it depends on how your chosen university wants to receive them:
1. By Postal Mail (Paper TRF)
If a university prefers physical copies of IELTS scores:
- Contact your IELTS test centre and request to send your paper TRF to the university.
- You can send scores free of charge to up to five organisations within one month of your test.
- Need to send it to more than five? There may be a small administrative fee per additional recipient.
- Make sure you provide the correct postal address of the university.
2. Electronically (E-delivery via IELTS Results Service)
If the institution accepts digital scores:
- You can request this either through your IELTS booking portal or by contacting your test centre.
- Digital scores are sent via the IELTS Results E-delivery Service, which is fast, secure, and globally accepted.
- There’s no limit to the number of institutions you can send scores to electronically.
Tip: Always confirm with the university which method they prefer (postal or electronic), and get the correct:
- Mailing address for postal delivery, or
- Account name or institution code for e-delivery
How to Access Your IELTS Scores Online
You can view your IELTS results online before sending them:
- Log into your IDP IELTS account (or British Council account, depending on your test provider).
- Use the same passport or ID number you used when registering.
- Enter your candidate number provided during registration.
This lets you see your scores even before receiving the physical or electronic TRF.
FAQs – Sending IELTS Scores to Universities
Q: Can I send scores after applying to a university?
Yes. Many universities allow you to send IELTS results after submitting your application, but it’s best to do so before the application deadline.
Q: How long does it take for universities to receive my scores?
Postal delivery may take several days to weeks, depending on location. E-delivery is typically received within a few hours to 2 days.
Q: Can I resend my scores later?
Yes. Even after the initial five free reports, you can request additional deliveries at any time—just be aware of possible fees.
Q: Do I need to send my IELTS scores to UCAS for UK universities?
No, IELTS scores are sent directly to each individual university, not through UCAS.
Need help choosing universities that accept IELTS or understanding admission requirements? Kampus Group is here to guide you every step of the way. Let us know what countries or programs you’re applying to—we’ll help you make it happen.