Correct answers in each of the IELTS tests are translated into a score on the IELTS nine-band scale. Test takers get separate band scores for each of the Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking tests to measure language proficiency.
Those scores are then averaged and rounded; the test maker then uses a confidential conversion table in order to produce a final Overall Band score. Scores can be reported in either whole or half bands, Each band corresponds to a descriptive statement that provides a summary of English competence.
The statements provided below will give you a sense of what competence is required for each hand score. However; these are not the actual statements used by the test maker. For the actual descriptive statements for each band, please visit the official IELTS website, www.ielts.org.
Band 9:Expert User
Has complete control of the language: correct and effortless usage with complete understanding.
Band 8:Very Good User
Has complete control of the language with few errors. Confusion may take place in new or atypical circumstances. Is able to formulate advanced, in-depth arguments.
Band 7:Good User
Has advanced control of the language, though with a few errors or confusion in some circumstances. Uses sophisticated words and complex syntas, and comprehends dense arguments.
Band 6:Competent User
Has capable control of the language despite some errors and confusion. Can employ and comprehend moderately advanced language, but mainly in routine and typical circumstances.
Band 5:Modest User
Has limited control of the language. Is able to use plain statements in routine and typical circumstances. Commits numerous errors, and occasionally has difficultly with the general meaning of conversations.
Band 4:Limited User
Has low-level proficiency restricted to routine and typical circumstances. Uses only the most simplistic of words and syntax, and occasionally has trouble following a relatively simple, common conversation.
Band 3:Extremely Limited User
Cannot follow a relatively simple, common conversation, even with the most simplistic usc of words and syntax.
Band 2:Intermittent User
Can handle only plain wolds to express basic needs. Even the most simple phrases or syntax usage are nor well understood. Struggles significantly with spoken or written English.
Band 1:Non User
Knows a small number of random words. Has basically no understanding of English at all.
Candidates who do not attempt to answer any tasks score 0 for the test.
SCORING FOR THE LISTENING AND READING TESTS
In the IELTS Listening test, one mark is awarded for each correctly answered question. To obtain a band score of 7, you will need to answer at least 30 questions out of 40 correctly.
In the General or Academic Reading test, one mark is awarded for each correctly answered question. To get a band score of 7, you will need to answer at least 30 questions correctly.
SCORING FOR WRITING AND SPEAKING TESTS
Your writing and speaking abilities will be assessed by various criteria.
There are two sets of criteria used to assess your writing. However, there are some differences in how the General Writing and the Academic Writing tasks are assessed.
WRITING:
•General Training Writing Task 1: You are asked to write a letter with a clear purpose that contains all the information specified in the task. Depending on the task, the letter will be written in either a formal or an informal style.
•Academic Writing Task 1: You are asked to write a report based on a table, graph or diagram. You need to report the data in the task accurately, and to identify and compare the key features.
•General Training Writing and Academic Writing Task 2: You are given a prompt in the form of a question or statement, and you are required to formulate and express your point of view on a subject. You must support your ideas with relevant examples from your own experience.
In addition to the above, both the General Training Writing and Academic Writing tests are marked using the following criteria:
•Coherence and cohesion: Your response needs to be logically organised into paragraphs, and you need to connect the ideas clearly. The paragraphs must have a central topic as well as supporting statements and examples.
•Vocabulary: To obtain a high score for this criterion, you must demonstrate a varied vocabulary. You need to be able to use the words appropriately and speR them correctly.
•Grammatical range and accuacy: You should use a variety of simple and complex grammatical structures accurately. You will also be assessed on your ability to punctuate your writing appropriately.
Speaking:
Your speaking ability will be assessed by the following criteria:
•Fluency and coherence: Your ability to express ideas and opinions clearly and coherently, without long pauses and hesitations.
•Lexical Resource: Your ability to use a wide range of vocabulary naturally.
•Grammatical range and accuracjr: Your ability to use a wide range of grammatical structures without making many mistakes.
•Pronunciation: Your ability to speak clearly and use pronunciation features naturally.