IELTS One Skill Retake: What You Need to Know
- Lauren Simpson
- Jan 15
- 4 min read
Updated: Jan 20

The IELTS One Skill Retake is a valuable opportunity for candidates who have taken the IELTS Computer-Based test and wish to improve their score in a specific section. Unlike before, where candidates had to retake the entire exam, the One Skill Retake option allows you to focus solely on Listening, Reading, or Writing—sections where you may have fallen short of your desired score—without having to redo the Speaking section.
What is IELTS One Skill Retake?
The IELTS One Skill Retake allows you to retake a single section of the IELTS Computer-Based exam, specifically Listening, Reading, or Writing, if you're not satisfied with your score in that section. This is ideal if you performed well in other areas but need to boost your score in one specific skill area. For example, if you scored well in Speaking and Listening, but your Writing score was lower than expected, you can retake just the Writing section.
Important: The IELTS One Skill Retake option is not available for the Speaking section. If you need to improve your Speaking score, you will have to retake the entire IELTS exam.
How Does the IELTS One Skill Retake Work?
Eligibility: The One Skill Retake is available for candidates who have taken the IELTS Computer-Based exam and received their results. You can retake the Listening, Reading, or Writing section only, provided you have already taken the full test.
Booking the Retake: Once you've decided which section to retake, you can book your One Skill Retake through the official IELTS test center where you took your computer-based exam. Not all test centers offer this service, so it’s important to confirm that your test center participates in the One Skill Retake program.
Test Format: The One Skill Retake follows the same test format as the original IELTS exam for the section you are retaking. For instance, if you retake the Writing section, you will be required to complete the same types of writing tasks as in the original exam.
Test Results: After taking the One Skill Retake, only the score for the section you retook will be updated. The scores for the other sections (Speaking, if applicable, and any sections you didn’t retake) will remain unchanged. This means that your overall IELTS band score will be recalculated based on the updated section.
Why Should You Choose the IELTS One Skill Retake?
Cost-Effective: Retaking the entire IELTS exam can be expensive and time-consuming, especially if you only need to improve one section. With the One Skill Retake, you only pay for the section you wish to improve.
Time-Saving: If you’ve already performed well in certain sections of the test, you don’t have to retake them. Instead, you can focus solely on the section you want to improve.
Convenience: The One Skill Retake allows you to improve your score in a targeted way, without having to redo the entire exam. This option is especially useful if you only need a small improvement to meet your goals.
Reduced Stress: The IELTS exam can be stressful, and the idea of retaking the whole exam may feel overwhelming. The One Skill Retake removes that stress, giving you a chance to focus on the section where you need improvement.
When Should You Consider an IELTS One Skill Retake?
When You Are Close to Your Desired Score: If you’ve done well in most sections and only need a slight boost in one, the One Skill Retake is an efficient way to achieve your target score.
When You Need a Specific Score for University or Visa Purposes: If you need to meet the requirements for university admission, migration, or job opportunities, the One Skill Retake can help you target the section that’s holding you back.
When You Want to Save Time: If you’re applying for a program or visa and are running out of time, the One Skill Retake offers a faster way to improve your score without needing to wait for the next full test.
How to Prepare for an IELTS One Skill Retake
Analyze Your Original Results: Review your previous test results to identify where you performed poorly. Was it due to lack of practice or a specific area like writing coherence or reading speed? Understanding your weaknesses will guide your preparation.
Targeted Practice: Focus on the section you're retaking. Use official IELTS practice tests, online resources, and mock tests to hone the skills you need to improve.
Seek Expert Guidance: If you’re unsure about your weak points or need help improving quickly, consider working with an IELTS coach or taking prep classes. IELTS Uganda provides specialized training for each section of the exam.
Practice under Timed Conditions: It’s important to get used to the pressure of the timed test. Practice completing the tasks within the allotted time to build your speed and accuracy.
Final Thoughts
The IELTS One Skill Retake is a flexible and cost-effective option for candidates who only need to improve one section of their IELTS Computer-Based exam. It’s perfect for those who performed well in most areas but need a boost in just one skill. However, it’s important to note that this option is available only for Listening, Reading, or Writing, and not for the Speaking section.
With focused preparation and the right approach, the One Skill Retake can help you achieve your desired IELTS score faster and more efficiently. Whether you're preparing for university admissions, immigration, or job applications, IELTS Uganda is here to guide you toward success.
Start Preparing Today with IELTS Uganda: Ready to improve your score in the IELTS exam? Contact us today to get personalized coaching for your IELTS One Skill Retake or any other section you need help with!