IELTS Band Descriptors

IELTS Band Descriptors are a set of criteria that describe the English language skills of IELTS test takers. Each band score from 1 to 9 represents a different level of English proficiency, from “Non-user” to “Expert”.

Calculation of IELTS Band Score

The IELTS band score is calculated as the average of your scores in the four skills: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. Each skill is scored out of 9, so your overall band score can range from 1 to 9. You can also get half-band scores, such as 6.5 or 7.5.

Listening and Reading Band Score

The Listening and Reading tests are scored based on the number of correct answers you give. There are 40 questions in each test, and each correct answer is worth one mark. Your score is then converted to a band score using the following tables:

IELTS Listening Band Score

IELTS Reading Band Score

Speaking and Writing Band Score

The Speaking and Writing tests are scored based on your performance in various criteria, such as grammar, vocabulary, fluency, and coherence. The examiners use a detailed set of band descriptors to assess your performance and assign you a band score.

IELTS Speaking Band Score

Band Score  – Descriptors

9 – Can express themselves fluently, easily, and spontaneously, almost without effort

8 – Generally uses a wide range of vocabulary spontaneously and flexibly. Can handle complex sentences with ease

7 – The candidate uses a good range of vocabulary flexibly. Can handle complex sentences, although there may be occasional inaccuracies

6 – The candidate uses a relatively good range of vocabulary, generally appropriately. Can handle most complex sentences, although there may be occasional inaccuracies.

5 – The candidate uses a limited range of vocabulary. May have difficulty following complex instructions

4 – The candidate uses a minimal range of vocabulary. Has great difficulty following complex instructions

3 – The candidates can only express themselves in very general terms, even when provided with assistance.

2 – The candidate can only say a few isolated words or phrases

1 – Non-user. The candidate needs help communicating.

IELTS Writing Band Score

Band Score – Descriptors

9 – Writes fluently and spontaneously, without much obvious searching for expressions. He organizes ideas clearly and coherently. The candidate applies a wide range of vocabulary spontaneously and flexibly.

8 – The candidate writes fluently and spontaneously. He Organizes ideas clearly and coherently. The candidate applies a wide range of vocabulary appropriately.

7 – The candidate writes fluently. He uses a relatively good range of vocabulary appropriately.

6 – The candidate organizes & writes pretty fluently. He Organizes ideas reasonably clearly and coherently.

5 – The candidate writes with some difficulty. He may need help organizing ideas. He uses a limited range of vocabulary.

4 – The candidate writes with great difficulty. He may need help organizing ideas. The candidate uses a minimal range of vocabulary.

3 – I can only write concise and simple sentences.

2 – You can only write a few isolated words or phrases.

1 – Non-user. I need help communicating.

Tips for Improving Your IELTS Band Score

• Practice regularly. The more you practice, the better you will become at the different tasks and questions in the IELTS test. You can find practice materials online and in books.
• Get feedback from others. Ask a friend, teacher, or tutor to listen to you speak and read your writing. They can give you feedback on your grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, and fluency.
• Focus on your weaknesses. Once you know your weaknesses, you can focus on improving them. For example, if you have trouble with grammar, you can practice grammar exercises or find a grammar tutor.
• Use a variety of resources. Many different resources are available to help you prepare for the IELTS test. You can take help of online resources, books, and even apps.
• Take a mock test. A mock test is a great way to practice for the real test and identify areas where you need to improve. You can find mock tests online and in books.

Here are some additional tips for improving your IELTS band score in each skill:

Listening

1. Listen to English as much as possible. This could include watching English movies and TV shows, listening to English music, or listening to English podcasts.
2. Pay attention to the pronunciation of words. Try to copy the pronunciation of native speakers.
3. Practice listening to different types of English accents. The IELTS test features speakers from a variety of English-speaking countries, so it is important to be able to understand different accents.

Reading

• Read a variety of English texts. This could include newspapers, magazines, books, and online articles.
• Pay attention to the vocabulary and grammar used in the texts. Try to learn new words and phrases.
• Practice answering comprehension questions. There are many different types of comprehension questions, so it is important to practice answering a variety of them.

Speaking

• Find a speaking partner. This could be a friend, teacher, or tutor. Practice speaking English with them regularly.
• Record yourself speaking English and listen back to your recordings. This can help you identify spots where you can improve, such as pronunciation or grammar.
• Practice speaking about a variety of topics. The IELTS speaking test covers a wide range of topics, so it is crucial to be able to speak about various things.

Writing

• Write regularly. The more you write, the better you will become at it. You can write about anything you want, such as your daily activities, thoughts and feelings, or opinions on current events.
• Get feedback on your writing from others. Ask a friend, teacher, or tutor to read your writing and give you feedback.
• Practice writing different types of essays. The IELTS writing test requires the candidate to write two types of essays: a task 1 essay and a task 2 essay. It is important to practice writing both types of essays to prepare for the test.

Conclusion

Improving your IELTS band score takes time and effort, but it is definitely possible. Following the tips above, you can improve your English skills and achieve your desired band score.