• IELTS

IELTS Band Scores: How they are calculated

13277 Reads
3 min Read

By:CANAM Group
Updated On:May 31,2023 05:52 PM IST

The IELTS test is a great way to measure your English language proficiency for academic or immigration purposes. If you’re interested in taking the test, you’ll need to know how to interpret an IELTS band score. The IELTS band score measures your reading, Writing, Speaking, and listening ability. This blog will explain how to calculate your IELTS band score so that you can easily register for the exam.

IELTS Band Scores: How they are calculated

How to Calculate Your IELTS Band Score: A Step-by-Step Guide

An IELTS band score is your final score on the test. It's a great way to measure your English language proficiency without attaching a letter grade. IELTS scores can range from 0 to 9 for each module. 8 band and above is considered "high-level proficiency" in English and could be applicable for higher education, employment, or immigration purposes. The IELTS score is calculated by adding your test score to each module. For example, if your Reading and Writing test scores are high and your Speaking and Listening test scores are average, you'll get around Band 6.

1.Before calculating your IELTS band score, you must know your exam test scoring guide.

2.Once you have the scoring guide, you can calculate your overall IELTS band score.

3.Overall Band Score in IELTS test = Reading Band Score + Writing Band Score + Listening Band Score + Speaking Band Score.

4.The next step is to calculate the overall average IELTS band score. You can use the charts below to find your IELTS band score. The charts will show you how to calculate your IELTS band score.

Step 1: Know the Scoring Guide for Your Test Date

Step 2: Calculate Your Overall Band Score

Once you have each module's score, add them to get your overall band score. Overall Band Score = Reading Band Score + Writing Band Score + Listening Band Score + Speaking Band Score. The next step is to calculate the overall IELTS band score by finding the average of all scores.

Which IELTS Band Should You Aim for?

Once you know how to calculate your IELTS band score, you'll need to know which IELTS band you should aim for. The IELTS band score will depend on what you're using the test for.

Here are the minimum IELTS band scores for your test date. If you're hoping to use your IELTS test score for academic purposes, you'll need to aim for a minimum IELTS band score of 6.5. If you're hoping to use your IELTS test score for immigration purposes, you'll need to aim for a minimum IELTS band score of 7.5. If you're taking your IELTS test for a job, you'll need to aim for a minimum IELTS band score of 8.

Band score	Skill level	Descriptors
9	Expert user	The person taking the test is fluent in the language their proficient use of the english language demonstrates their thorough comprehension of it.
8	Very good user	The test-taker has excellent linguistic proficiency and few errors. They have good situational awareness. They might interpret some unfamiliar contexts incorrectly.
7	Good user	The test-taker generally has a strong knowledge of the English language, while there are occasional errors and incorrect usage in some circumstances. They are good at interpreting complex sentences and comprehending intricate thinking.
6	Competent user	Although there are some errors and some incorrect language usage, the test-taker has a strong command of the language. In familiar settings, they may interpret complex language well.
5	Modest user	The test-taker can deal with general meaning and has a limited command of the English language. They misjudge frequently. They have minimal communication skills for their sector.
4	Limited user	The test-taker can deal with general meaning and has a limited command of the English language. They misjudge frequently. They have minimal communication skills for their sector.
3	Extremely limited user	The test taker understands only the general meaning in very familiar situations. Communication breakdowns occur frequently.
2	Intermittent user	The test taker finds it extremely challenging to comprehend spoken and written English.
1	Non-user	Except for a few isolated words, the test-taker is unable to use the English language.

The score that you predict using these tools could be different from the actual score as many other factors might affect the final score that you receive. Once you start getting good scores consistently, you may apply for the real test.

FAQ

How is my IELTS Reading score calculated?

The IELTS Reading score is calculated based on the number of correct answers you provide. The Reading test contains 40 questions, and each question worth 1 mark. So, as per the correct answers, you will receive a score out of 40, which is then converted to a band score out of 9.

Will there be any negative marking for incorrect answers?

The IELTS Reading score is based on the number of correct answers you provide.

Hence, you do not lose marks for incorrect answers.

Can I skip a question while Reading?

At the time of IELTS Reading attempt, you can skip a question and come back to it later. There will be no penalty for doing the same.

How many correct answers in IELTS Reading do I need to get a specific band score?

In IELTS academic Reading you need to provide 30-32 questions correct to get a band score of 7.0, and around 36-38 questions correct to achieve a band score of 8.0.

Can I apply for a re-evaluation of my IELTS Reading score?

Yes, you can request a re-mark of your IELTS Reading test if you are not satisfied with your score. However, there is a fee for this service, and the process can take up to six weeks.

Get great articles direct to your inbox

The latest news, articles, and resources, sent straight to your inbox every month.

Popular Universities to Study Abroad

World class education waiting for you.

University of South Dakota - Vermillion Campus

South Dakota, USA • 204 Programmes

Tuition Fee : USD 12000-13000 / year

Keyano College

Alberta, Canada • 25 Programmes

Tuition Fee : CAD 13500-48000 / year

Study Group - University of Sussex International Study Centre

England, UK • 350 Programmes

Tuition Fee : GBP 18000-21000 / year

Waikato Institute of Technology (Wintec) - Hamilton City Campus

Hamilton, New Zealand • 57 Programmes

Tuition Fee : NZD 19105-23445 / year

Le Cordon Bleu - Melbourne Campus

Victoria, Australia • 8 Programmes

Tuition Fee : AUD 19500-20000 / year

Manukau Institute of Technology - Manukau Campus

Auckland, New Zealand • 13 Programmes

Tuition Fee : NZD 20300-24700 / year

Liverpool Hope University - Hope Park Campus

England, UK • 675 Programmes

Tuition Fee : GBP 12500-13000 / year

Pacific Lutheran University

Washington, USA • 47 Programmes

Tuition Fee : USD 0-0 / year

View All Universities

Latest at CANAM

Events, webinar, college / university visits and more.

University Visits - Lakehead University

Study in Canada • University Visit

Patiala • 12:00PM

In-Person Event

University Visit - Navitas - Australasia

Study in Australia, New Zealand, Dubai, Singapore • University Visit

VV Nagar Anand • 04:00PM

In-Person Event

University Visit - Univerity of Manitoba

Study in Canada

Chandigarh • 01:00PM

In-Person Event

Top countries destinations

Popular university and colleges for Studying abroad.

Bond University Queensland
Central Queensland University - Rockhampton, North Campus Queensland
Charles Sturt University - Wagga Wagga Campus New South Wales
Deakin University - Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus Victoria
Engineering Institute of Technology - Perth campus Western Australia
Griffith University - Nathan Campus Queensland
La Trobe University - Bendigo Campus Victoria
LCI Melbourne - Art & Design School Victoria

Ara Institute of Canterbury - City Campus Southland
Aspire 2 International - Auckland Campus Auckland
Auckland University of Technology - City Campus Auckland
Eastern Institute of Technology - Hawke Bay Campus Hawke's Bay
Manukau Institute of Technology -Manukau Campus Auckland
Massey University - Auckland Campus Auckland
Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT) - Nelson Campus Southland
New Zealand Institute of Business & Technology (NZIBT) Auckland
The University of Waikato - Hamilton Campus Hamilton

Kent state university Ohio
San Jose State University California
Wright State University Ohio
Clark University Massachusetts
Rowan University New Jersey
Arkansas State University Arkansas
University of Wisconsin Milwaukee Wisconsin
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Illinois
University of Findlay Ohio

Popular English Language Proficiency Exams

IELTS Online

- Live Classes

Blogs and Articles

Curated content to keep you updated on the latest education trends, news and more.

Medical Courses in UK

Medical courses in the UK are recognised globally for their academic challenge, updated facilities, and comprehensive practical experience. UK Univers...

Updated on • Dec 10,2024 05:36 PM IST • study in the UK

MBBS in Germany

Studying an MBBS in Germany offers a pathway to a world-class education in medicine, attracting thousands of aspiring doctors from around the globe ev...

Updated on • Dec 09,2024 05:49 PM IST • Study in Germany

Letter of Motivation for Germany

If you are planning to study abroad, you must know that the SOP is the most essential document for the application process. In Germany, the same SOP i...

Updated on • Dec 07,2024 05:11 PM IST • Germany

Part-Time Jobs in Germany for International Students

Studying abroad is an experience of a lifetime, incorporating distinct incidents and events. Students are advised to work part-time to make this adven...

Updated on • Dec 06,2024 04:38 PM IST • Study in Germany

Health Insurance in Germany for International Students

Do you know that Germany has one of the world's oldest national health insurance systems? That's right, and the health insurance system of Germany dat...

Updated on • Dec 06,2024 04:05 PM IST • Study in Germany

Scholarships in Germany for International Students

For international students looking to pursue their higher education abroad, Germany is known as one of the most affordable study destinations. Its cre...

Updated on • Dec 06,2024 03:59 PM IST • Study in Germany

Study Permit for Canada

Planning to study in Canada? But in order to heading off to the land of the maple leaf, it's important to understand how to apply for a Canadian study...

Updated on • Dec 05,2024 05:04 PM IST • Study in Canada

Student Life in UK

The United Kingdom is home to some of the most renowned universities that provide learning opportunities to students nationwide. The country is known ...

Updated on • Dec 04,2024 04:46 PM IST • study in the UK

Master of Information Systems (MIS) in USA

In today's fast-paced and digitally-driven world, organizations increasingly depend on information systems to streamline operations, enhance decision-...

Updated on • Dec 02,2024 05:28 PM IST • USA

Bachelor of Nursing Courses in Australia

Are you passionate about helping others and drawn to the dynamic world of healthcare? A Bachelor of Nursing in Australia could be the perfect la...

Updated on • Nov 30,2024 03:16 PM IST • Australia

Study Medicine in Germany

Are you an international student planning to study medicine in Germany? We want to tell you are going in the right direction, as Germany hosts world-c...

Updated on • Nov 27,2024 05:34 PM IST • Study in Germany

Universities of Applied Sciences in Germany

Germany is gaining popularity for its top-notch universities of applied science, known as Fachhochschule. These esteemed institutes offer top-quality ...

Updated on • Nov 27,2024 05:22 PM IST • Germany

Student Life in Germany

Germany is known for its affordable education and top-class universities in Europe, but what is it like to become a student at a German univ...

Updated on • Nov 27,2024 04:18 PM IST • Study in Germany

Complete Undergraduate Admissions Guide to Study in Germany

Ever dreamt of studying in a land steeped in history and innovation? Germany, a powerhouse of education and engineering, beckons you with it...

Updated on • Nov 27,2024 03:54 PM IST • Study in Germany

PTE Score Chart 2025: PTE Exam Scoring System & Calculation

Most international institutions demand proof of strong English skills, making language proficiency tests a necessity to pursue higher education. While...

Updated on • Nov 26,2024 01:55 PM IST • PTE

Masters in Project Management in USA

Students with ISTJ Personality may have a successful future in project management as their sole personality aligns with the needs of an exceptional pr...

Updated on • Nov 26,2024 01:15 PM IST • USA

IELTS Speaking Questions

The IELTS exam is a popular way for people who want to study overseas, but don't speak English as their first language or where it's not spoken often....

Updated on • Nov 25,2024 03:45 PM IST • IELTS

Accounting Courses in USA

The United States has always been a land of opportunities, especially in education. The allure of studying accounting in the US remains strong, thanks...

Updated on • Nov 25,2024 03:33 PM IST • USA

IELTS Writing Task

IELTS Writing Task One of the most crucial aspects to scoring well on an exam is writing. The IELTS assesses both Academic and General Training in ...

Updated on • Nov 21,2024 05:46 PM IST • IELTS

Best Cities to Study in Canada

Canada is home to lakhs of international students, making it one of the most popular study abroad destination in the world. The country is celebrated ...

Updated on • Nov 21,2024 05:23 PM IST • Study in Canada

IELTS Band Scores: How they are calculated

Table of Contents

How to Calculate Your IELTS Band Score: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Know the Scoring Guide for Your Test Date

Step 2: Calculate Your Overall Band Score

Which IELTS Band Should You Aim for?

FAQ

Events, webinar, college / university visits and more.

Popular university and colleges for Studying abroad.

Bond University Queensland

Central Queensland University - Rockhampton, North Campus Queensland

Charles Sturt University - Wagga Wagga Campus New South Wales

Deakin University - Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus Victoria

Engineering Institute of Technology - Perth campus Western Australia

Griffith University - Nathan Campus Queensland

La Trobe University - Bendigo Campus Victoria

LCI Melbourne - Art & Design School Victoria

University Canada West British Columbia

University of Windsor Ontario

Dalhousie University Nova Scotia

Carleton University Ontario

Cape Breton University Nova Scotia

University of ottawa Ontario

University of saskatchewan Saskatchewan

University of regina Saskatchewan

University of guelph Ontario

Ara Institute of Canterbury - City Campus Southland

Aspire 2 International - Auckland Campus Auckland

Auckland University of Technology - City Campus Auckland

Eastern Institute of Technology - Hawke Bay Campus Hawke's Bay

Manukau Institute of Technology -Manukau Campus Auckland

Massey University - Auckland Campus Auckland

Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT) - Nelson Campus Southland

New Zealand Institute of Business & Technology (NZIBT) Auckland

The University of Waikato - Hamilton Campus Hamilton

University of Warwick England

De Montfort University England

University of West London England

University of Strathclyde Scotland

Aston University England

University of Bath England

University of Liverpool England

Durham University England

Newcastle University England

Kent state university Ohio

San Jose State University California

Wright State University Ohio

Clark University Massachusetts

Rowan University New Jersey

Arkansas State University Arkansas

University of Wisconsin Milwaukee Wisconsin

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Illinois

University of Findlay Ohio

Popular English Language Proficiency Exams

IELTS Online