The Pros and Cons of IELTS Writing Revaluation: Increasing Your Score

Many IELTS candidates wonder whether revaluation of their test scores is worth the effort and cost, especially if they are just a few points away from their desired band. In this article, we explore the top factors to consider when deciding whether to go for revaluation or to retake the test.

Understand Your Current Writing Score and Evaluation

Before proceeding with revaluation, it's crucial to critically evaluate your current performance. Check if your ideas are relevant to the topic, if they are fully supported and extended, if good collocations are used, and if any complex sentences have been included. Additionally, ensure that your sentences are free from errors. Only 10 to 20 percent of candidates see an improvement in their scores through revaluation. If your score is only a few points away from your target, it might be worth exploring this option.

Case Studies and Real-Life Experiences

Some candidates have reported no changes in their scores after revaluation. For instance, a candidate mentioned, "With a score of 6.5, I made several changes to my writing essays and letters, still hoping for an increase. However, after revaluation, my score remained the same." On the other hand, some candidates have seen a small improvement. One such candidate scored 8 in the speaking section, and recommends not wasting time or money on revaluation, noting, "Truly speaking, it's not worth the effort."

Strategies for Effective Revaluation

While revaluation is an option, consider the following strategies to ensure the best possible outcome:

Review and Revise: Carefully review your essays and letters, focusing on relevance, support, complexity, and coherence. Ensure that each argument is well-founded and that you use a range of vocabulary and complex sentence structures. Seek Feedback: Get feedback from experienced teachers or mentors who can provide insights on areas for improvement. Past Performance: Reflect on your previous writing scores. If you consistently scored above 6.5, there might be a better chance of an increase. Cost-Effectiveness: Weigh the financial and time costs of revaluation against the potential benefits. Given that reevaluation is not cheap, consider whether retaking the test might be a better option if you are aiming for a significant score increase.

Conclusion and Final Recommendations

The decision to pursue revaluation depends on your individual circumstances. If you are confident that your score can be improved by just a few points, it might be worth the effort. However, if you are in the higher bands (e.g., 7 or above), the benefits might not be worth the investment.

All in all, my advice is to:

Thoroughly review your essays and letters before applying for revaluation. Consider past performance and the potential for improvement. Factor the cost and time involved in reevaluation into your decision. If retaking the test seems more advantageous, it might be the better option.

Good luck with your studies, and if you decide to retake the test or pursue revaluation, ensure you are fully prepared for the challenges ahead. All the best!