HOW THE IELTS TEST IS SCORED

Each candidate is graded based a 9-band score. They are graded from a scale of 1(lowest) to 9(highest).

The scoring system for the IELTS test is the same regardless of the format.

The IELTS 9-Band Scale

• Band score: 9
• Skill level: Expert user

Description: The test taker has fully operational command of the language. Their use of English is appropriate, accurate and fluent, and shows complete understanding.

• Band score: 8
• Skill level : Very good user

Description: The test taker has fully operational command of the language with only occasional unsystematic inaccuracies and inappropriate usage. They may misunderstand some things in unfamiliar situations. They handle complex and detailed argumentation well.

• Band score: 7
• Skill level: Good user

Description: The test taker has operational command of the language, though with occasional inaccuracies, inappropriate usage and misunderstandings in some situations. They generally handle complex language well and understand detailed reasoning.

• Band score: 6
• Skill level: Competent user

Description: The test taker has an effective command of the language despite some inaccuracies, inappropriate usage and misunderstandings. They can use and understand fairly complex language, particularly in familiar situations. 

• Band score: 5
• Skill level: Modest user

Description: The test taker has a partial command of the language and copes with overall meaning in most situations, although they are likely to make many mistakes. They should be able to handle basic communication in their own field.

• Band score: 4
• Skill level: Limited user

Description: The test taker's basic competence is limited to familiar situations. They frequently show problems in understanding and expression. They are not able to use complex language.

• Band score: 3
• Skill level: Extremely limited user

Description: The test taker conveys and understands only general meaning in very familiar situations. There are frequent breakdowns in communication.

• Band score: 2
• Skill level: Intermittent user

 Description: The test taker has great difficulty understanding spoken and written English.

• Band score: 1
• Skill level: Non-user

 Description: The test taker has no ability to use the language except a few isolated words.

• Band score: 0
• Skill level: Did not attempt the test

 Description: The test taker did not answer the questions.

The Band Score that a candidate will get depends on the candidate’s level of expertise in the IELTS test.

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