If you've been researching the IELTS test, you'll know the importance of a good overall score. It can determine your eligibility for courses and visas, so it is worth understanding exactly how it works. Put simply, it is a combination of the band scores for each of the four test sections – but how are they put together? We take you through the details of IELTS scoring and how examiners approach it.
How is an overall IELTS score calculated?
The IELTS test has four sections: reading, writing, listening and speaking. The overall IELTS test score is calculated using your average score for each of these. The weighting given to each section is equal.
All IELTS scores are marked on a scale of zero to nine, with each number along the way referred to as a band. Once your scores for each section are averaged out, your overall score will be rounded up or down to the nearest whole or half band. For example, if you receive an overall score of 7.0, this may have been rounded up from 6.75, or rounded down from 7.125.
The following examples set out how final IELTS scores are calculated:
|
Reading |
Writing |
Listening |
Speaking |
Average / 4 |
Final Score |
|
6.5 |
7.0 |
5.0 |
6.5 |
6.25 |
6.5 |
|
6.0 |
5.5 |
6.5 |
6.5 |
6.125 |
6.0 |
Find out more about understanding English language test scores.
What is the IELTS marking scale?
When an examiner marks your IELTS performance, the results are calculated using a scale from zero to nine. Each band score reflects a particular level of skill. For example, a score of seven would constitute a good user.
In the table below, each band score and skill level is clarified with a detailed description.
|
Band |
Skill level |
Description |
|
9 |
Expert user |
Operational command of English with accuracy, fluency and understanding. |
|
8 |
Very good user |
Operational command of English with only a few errors and misunderstandings. |
|
7 |
Good user |
Understanding of complex language, but with some inaccuracies and inappropriate language usage. |
|
6 |
Competent user |
Effective command of the language despite some inaccuracy and inappropriate usage. Understanding strong in familiar situations. |
|
5 |
Modest user |
Partial command of the language. Can understand language in certain situations, but with many mistakes. Capable of basic communication. |
|
4 |
Limited user |
Limited command and understanding of the language. Not able to use complex language. |
|
3 |
Extremely limited user |
General and limited understanding only. Frequent communication breakdown. |
|
2 |
Intermittent user |
Difficulty in understanding written and spoken English. |
|
1 |
Non-user |
No English language ability except for a few words. |
|
0 |
Did not attempt the test |
The test taker did not answer the questions. |
Take our advice on preparing for the IELTS test.
How are IELTS band scores calculated?
The calculation of band scores does differ depending on the IELTS test section. Let's look at each one more closely.
IELTS listening
The IELTS listening test consists of 40 questions. Each of the questions is worth one mark, and there is no negative marking for incorrect answers. Your score out of 40 is converted using the IELTS nine-point scale for your final section band score.
The marking scheme below shows you how many correct answers you will need on average for each section band score from 5 to 8.
|
Band Score |
Score out of 40 |
|
8 |
35 |
|
7 |
30 |
|
6 |
23 |
|
5 |
16 |
Wondering if your result will allow you to study the subject you would like? Find out the IELTS scores needed for popular courses.
IELTS reading
IELTS reading tests also have 40 questions. Each correct answer is worth one mark. Your section score out of 40 is again converted using the nine-point scale.
However, an important thing to note about IELTS reading tests is that there are two different types: Academic and General Training. While both are graded on the same scale, their content differs.
Academic tests tend to contain more advanced vocabulary and more complex writing styles. As such, people who take them will usually need fewer correct answers than those who take General Training ones to attain a higher band score.
The marking schemes below show you the score out of 40 you will typically need for a range of section band scores on both tests.
Academic Reading
|
Band Score |
Score out of 40 |
|
8 |
35 |
|
7 |
30 |
|
6 |
23 |
|
5 |
15 |
General Training Reading
|
Band Score |
Score out of 40 |
|
8 |
38 |
|
7 |
35 |
|
6 |
30 |
|
5 |
23 |
|
4 |
15 |
IELTS writing
The IELTS writing test is made up of two tasks. The second is given double the weighting of the first, but both are given scores on the nine-point scale for four different criteria.
These criteria are:
- Task achievement (for task 1) and task response (for task 2)
- Coherence and cohesion
- Vocabulary used
- Accuracy and use of grammar
For both tasks, the scores for each criterion are added together and then divided by four to create an overall score. Then, these two task scores are combined – factoring in the heavier weighting of the second task – to give the final writing band score.
Explore the differences between the IELTS and TOEFL tests.
IELTS speaking
IELTS examiners assess the speaking test using four criteria, all of which are weighted equally and given separate scores on the nine-point scale. These criteria are:
- Coherence and fluency
- Vocabulary
- Pronunciation
- Accuracy and grammar
The final band score for the IELTS writing test is the average of the scores given for each of the criteria.
We hope this has helped you understand how IELTS scores are calculated. While you're here, you may also find our guide to university applications interesting. If you're looking for more information on the exam, you can read about the types of IELTS test, or the benefits of IELTS.
Disclaimer: IDP Hotcourses Abroad is part of IDP Education, co-owner of IELTS.
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