Planning to take International English Language Testing System (IELTS) test? If yes, then understanding what a good IELTS score is becomes crucial. Generally, a good IELTS band score is one that meets or exceeds the requirements set by the institution or organisation you are applying to. Commonly, a score of 6.5 to 7.5 is considered good for university admission, while a score of 7.0 or above is often required for professional registration or immigration purposes. Here, we’ll look at how to calculate your score in the different sections of the IELTS test and tips to achieve your desired a good band score. unities for success in various endeavours.
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What makes a good IELTS score: Section-wise scores calculation
The IELTS exam is graded on a 0-9 band scale. Below, we will understand the scoring system for different sections of the test.
Listening test scoring system:
The IELTS Listening test has four sections, each with 10 questions, adding up to 40 questions in total. Each question is worth 1 point, so the highest possible score is 40. After the test, your total score is converted into a band score using an official conversion table from IELTS. Band scores range from 1 to 9, with scores increasing by 0.5 increments.
Band Score | Raw Score Out of 40 |
5 | 16 |
6 | 23 |
7 | 30 |
8 | 35 |
Reading test scoring system
The IELTS Reading test has 40 questions, and each correct answer earns 1 mark. These marks are then converted into a band score on a scale from 1 to 9. Both the Academic and General Training Reading tests use the same grading scale, but they differ in the types of texts.
The Academic Reading test may feature more difficult vocabulary and complex text styles. As a result, you might need to answer more questions correctly on the General Training Reading test to achieve the same band score as you would on the Academic Reading test.
Band Score | Raw Score Out of 40 |
5 | 16 |
6 | 23 |
7 | 30 |
8 | 35 |
General Training reading
Examiners use specific criteria to give a band score for each of the four categories:
Task achievement (for Task 1) or task response (for Task 2)
Coherence and cohesion
Lexical resource
Grammatical range and accuracy
All these criteria are equally important in the evaluation. The final score for the task is calculated by averaging the scores from these categories.
Speaking test scoring system
In the Speaking test, examiners use four criteria to give a band score:
Fluency and coherence
Lexical resource
Each of these criteria is equally important. The overall Speaking band score is found by averaging the scores from these four areas.
How long is IELTS score valid?
Generally, IELTS test results remain valid for two years from the date of the exam. This recommendation is based on studies about language retention. Some organisations may accept IELTS scores beyond this period, so it's a good idea to confirm their specific policies directly with them. Keeping your scores within this timeframe ensures they accurately reflect your current language abilities.
Tips to get good IELTS scores
To achieve a good score on the IELTS test, focus on consistent practice, dedication, and a well-organised study plan. Here are some strategies to help you prepare effectively:
Understand the test format: Get familiar with the IELTS format, including the sections (Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking), their time limits, and the types of questions. This knowledge will make your preparation more effective.
Improve Your English skills: Work on your overall English proficiency by reading extensively, listening to English media, watching English films or TV shows, and practicing conversations in English. This will boost your vocabulary, grammar, and comprehension.
Practice regularly: Consistently practice each section of the test to build confidence and improve performance. Use free IELTS practice materials and sample tests available online to get used to the format and timing.
Develop listening skills: Enhance your listening by exposing yourself to various English accents. Focus on understanding the main ideas, details, and the speaker’s tone. Practice listening to different audio sources and taking note of important keywords and context.
Improve reading skills: Read various English texts, including newspapers, magazines, and academic articles. Pay attention to different writing styles, vocabulary, and how main ideas and details are presented. Practice techniques like skimming and scanning for efficient information retrieval.
Refine writing skills: Practice writing essays, reports, and letters within the given time limits. Focus on organizing ideas clearly, using appropriate vocabulary and grammar, and providing strong arguments or examples.
Enhance speaking kills: Engage in regular English conversations, both formal and informal. Practice discussing various topics, expressing ideas clearly and fluently, and working on pronunciation and grammar.
Take mock tests: Regularly complete full-length mock tests under exam conditions to simulate the test environment. Review your performance to identify and address areas needing improvement.
Seek guidance and feedback: Consider joining an IELTS preparation course or working with a tutor for personalized guidance and feedback.
Stay calm and confident: On test day, stay calm and confident. Trust your preparation and give your best effort in each section.