To check your IELTS score, you need to understand the IELTS band scale along with the academic admission requirements and visa application score requirements. The IELTS band scale is a standardized measuring system ranging from 0-9.
Each organization requires specific band scores to determine your qualification. Academic admission requirements differ in every country with differences based on universities and program levels.
Every country has its own set of requirements for visa applications and immigration scores, with Australia using a point-allocation system, Canada utilizing the Express Entry system and the Canadian Language Benchmark measurements, while the United Kingdom and New Zealand also have varied criteria of their own.
IELTS Scoring for Listening and Reading is different from the scoring method in Writing and Speaking. The IELTS Listening and Reading sections uses an objective-based scoring while the Writing and Speaking sections employ a subjective-based scoring system. Each section has a specific conversion from raw to band scores.
Calculation of the overall IELTS score requires taking the average of all four sections guided by specific rounding rules.
What is the IELTS Band Scale?
The IELTS band scale checks how well a person speaks, writes, reads, and understands English using a scale from 0 to 9. The rating system reveals detailed information about candidates’ mastery. The levels on the scale match how well a person can use the English language in everyday settings, from beginner to expert.
| Band | User Level | Description |
| 9 | Expert user | As an expert, you have complete English skills and understand everything. You can use English easily in all situations, speaking accurately and fluently. You can discuss complex topics clearly. |
| 8 | Very good user | As a very good user, you use English very well but make a few small mistakes sometimes. You might not understand everything in unfamiliar situations. You handle detailed arguments well and use natural English phrases effectively. |
| 7 | Good user | As a good user, you have mistakes occasionally. You generally use complex language well in most situations. You understand detailed reasoning and can make clear arguments using a good range of vocabulary. |
| 6 | Competent user | As a competent user, you are generally effective at using English despite some inaccuracies. You can handle complex language in familiar situations. You present arguments with some clarity although there may be inconsistencies. |
| 5 | Modest user | As a modest user, you have partial command of English and can understand the main points. You make many mistakes in grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation. You should be able to handle basic conversations in your field using simple sentences correctly. |
| 4 | Limited user | As a limited user, you function effectively only in familiar situations. You have frequent problems understanding and expressing yourself and are unable to use complex language. You can convey basic information although your communication is strained. |
| 3 | Extremely limited user | As an extremely limited user, you manage to understand general meanings in familiar everyday situations. You experience frequent breakdowns in communication using only basic vocabulary and simple grammatical structures. |
| 2 | Intermittent user | As an intermittent user, you face major challenges when listening to and reading English. You know only a few words and phrases which makes real communication impossible. In addition, you cannot form complete sentences consistently. |
| 1 | Non-user | As a non-user, you have minimal language ability, extending to just several basic words. You have no functional communication skills in English and struggle to understand basic verbal orders or questions. |
| 0 | Did not attempt the test | You did not provide any information to be graded. You either did not attend the test or rejected key portions during your test sessions. The answers you provided had no relation to the actual tasks. |
Why the Band System Matters
The IELTS band scores are the basis of whether you are qualified for a specific position or not. Each organization or institution has its own minimum requirements. Familiarizing yourself with the band system helps you to align your goals and preparation.
What are the Academic Admission Requirements?
The general academic score requirements across countries like the United States, Canada, Australia, United Kingdom, and New Zealand differ especially on specific universities and program levels. They assess your application based on your rating in the four test sections and your overall score.
United States IELTS Academic Admission Requirements
IELTS requirements differ between US academic levels. Undergraduate programs typically require lower scores than graduate programs. Meanwhile, elite universities like Harvard, Stanford, and MIT set higher minimum requirements.
| Program Type | IELTS Score Requirements |
| Most Undergraduate Programs | 6.0 – 6.5 overall score |
| Graduate Programs | 6.5 – 7.0 overall score |
| Top Universities (Harvard, Stanford, MIT) | 7.0 or above overall score |
Canada IELTS Academic Admission Requirements
Canada has specific requirements for different areas in academic purposes. Each varies on the level of program that you want to be admitted to.
| Program Type | IELTS Score Requirements |
| Most Undergraduate Programs | 6.0 minimum overall score |
| Graduate Programs | 6.5 overall score |
| Top Universities (University of Toronto, McGill) | 6.5 or above overall score |
Australia IELTS Academic Admission Requirements
In Australia, benchmarks for academic score requirements also have key differences. They maintain clear guidelines for university admission based on the degree that you will take.
| Program Type | IELTS Score Requirements |
| Most Undergraduate Programs | 6.0 minimum overall score |
| Graduate Programs | 6.0 – 6.5 overall score |
| Top Universities | 6.5 overall score |
United Kingdom IELTS Academic Admission Requirements
The United Kingdom sets different test grades for academic programs as well, with top universities having stricter entry conditions.
| Program Type | IELTS Score Requirements |
| Most Undergraduate Programs | 6.0 – 6.5 overall score |
| Graduate Programs | 6.5 – 7.0 overall score |
| Top Universities | 7.0 or above overall score |
New Zealand IELTS Academic Admission Requirements
New Zealand test requirements also have varied minimum scores needed for you to be accepted.
| Program Type | IELTS Score Requirements |
| Most Undergraduate Programs | 6.0 overall score |
| Graduate Programs | 6.5 minimum overall score |
| Top Universities | 6.5 overall score, no band below 6.0 |
What are the Visa Applications and Immigration Score Requirements?
Your IELTS scores will heavily determine your visa applications and immigration processes wherever you wish to apply. Each country has specific requirements based on visa type, skill level, and immigration pathway. Below are some English-speaking countries and their IELTS score requirements for visa applications and immigration.
Australia Immigration Score Requirements
The IELTS score requirements in Australia is determined using the points allocation system. To understand how points are derived, familiarize yourself with the following proficiency levels and their corresponding values.
| Proficiency Level | IELTS Score Requirement | Points Awarded |
| Competent English | 6.0 in each module | 0 points |
| Proficient English | 7.0 in each module | 10 points |
| Superior English | 8.0 in each module | 20 points |
| Healthcare professionals | 7.0 overall, 7.0 in Listening, Reading, Speaking, and 6.5 in Writing | Varies by occupation |
Canada Immigration Score Requirements
In Canada, they utilize the Express Entry system which is measured using the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) system. To understand the requirements for each level, review the following 5 program options below.
| Express Entry Program | CLB Level | IELTS Listening | IELTS Reading | IELTS Writing | IELTS Speaking |
| Federal Skilled Worker Program | CLB 7 | 6.0 | 6.0 | 6.0 | 6.0 |
| Federal Skilled Trades Program | CLB5/4 | 5.0 | 3.5 | 4.0 | 5.0 |
| Canadian Experience Class (NOC 0 & A Jobs) | CLB 7 | 6.0 | 6.0 | 6.0 | 6.0 |
| Canadian Experience Class (NOC B Jobs) | CLB 5 | 5.0 | 4.0 | 5.0 | 5.0 |
| Category -Based Selection | CLB 7 | 6.0 | 6.0 | 6.0 | 6.0 |
New Zealand Immigration Score Requirements
New Zealand has different immigration options which has varying language requirements. Examine the following 5 pathways and their score requirements in the table below.
| Immigration Category | Overall IELTS Score | Individual Band Requirements |
| Skilled Migrant Category (Principal Applicant) | 6.5 | No specific band requirements |
| Skilled Migrant Category (Partners/Dependents) | 5.0 | No specific band requirements |
| AEWV (ANZSCO Skill Levels 4 & 5) | 4.0 | No specific band requirements |
| Business Categories | 3.0 – 5.0 | Varies by category |
| Residence from Work Category | 5.0 | No specific band requirements |
United Kingdom Immigration Score Requirements
The UK visa system has an established IELTS score requirement for each visa type and purpose. To ensure you meet the correct goal, review the following 6 visa categories below.
| Visa Type | CEFR Level | IELTS Score Requirement |
| Student Visa (Below Degree Level) | B1 | IELTS 4.0 in each component |
| Student Visa (Degree Level or Above) | B2 | IELTS 5.5 in each component |
| Skilled Worker Visa | B1 | IELTS 4.0 in each component |
| Health and Care Worker Visa | B1 | IELTS 4.0 in each component |
| Innovator Founder Visa | B2 | IELTS 5.5 in each component |
| British Citizenship/ILR | B1 | IELTS Life Skills B1 (Pass) or IELTS 4.0 in Speaking and Listening |
How Are IELTS Scores Calculated?
The IELTS exam consists of four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. The scoring method for Listening and Reading is different from the Writing and Speaking sections. The first two sections use an objective-based scoring while the latter uses a subjective-based scoring system. To excel in the IELTS exam, understanding the scoring criteria for each section is crucial. Additionally, incorporating effective IELTS exam preparation tips can significantly enhance your performance, particularly in the subjective sections. Practicing with sample questions and seeking feedback can help you identify areas for improvement and increase your confidence on test day. To achieve a high score in the Writing and Speaking sections, it’s essential to understand the evaluation criteria that examiners use. Many candidates find it beneficial to utilize IELTS speaking preparation tips, as these can help improve fluency, coherence, and vocabulary usage during the test. Practicing different types of questions can also enhance confidence and performance on exam day.
Listening & Reading (Objective Scoring)
IELTS scores in Listening and Reading are calculated by converting your raw scores into band scores on a scale of 0-9. The scoring method in both sections uses objective scoring.
How is the Listening Section Scored?
In the IELTS Listening section, 40 questions will be answered with each correct answer worth one mark. Scoring in this section follows these 3 key rules.
- No negative marking for incorrect answers
- Spelling must be accurate
- Use of grammar must be correct
The Listening section raw scores are converted to band scores using the following pattern.
- Raw scores of 39-40: Band score of 9.0
- Raw scores of 37-38: Band score of 8.5
- Raw scores of 35-36: Band score of 8.0
- Raw scores of 32-34: Band score of 7.5
- Raw scores of 30-31: Band score of 7.0
- Raw scores of 27-29: Band score of 6.5
- Raw scores of 24-26: Band score of 6.0
- Raw scores of 21-23: Band score of 5.5
- Raw scores of 18-20: Band score of 5.0
- Raw scores of 15-17: Band score of 4.5
- Raw scores of 12-14: Band score of 4.0
- Raw scores of 9-11: Band score of 3.5
- Raw scores of 6-8: Band score of 3.0
- Raw scores of 4-5: Band score of 2.5
- Raw scores of 2-3: Band score of 2.0
- Raw scores of 1: Band score of 1.5
- Raw scores of 0: Band score of 0
How is the Reading Section Scored?
In the IELTS Reading section, the academic and general training format have a different scoring system. It follows these 4 important rules.
- All-or-nothing marking with no partial credit
- Spelling must be accurate for answers to be labeled correct
- If there is a specified word limit, it must be obeyed
- Form must match exactly as required
For the IELTS academic reading test, the raw scores conversion is listed below.
- Raw scores of 39-40: Band score of 9.0
- Raw scores of 37-38: Band score of 8.5
- Raw scores of 35-36: Band score of 8.0
- Raw scores of 33-34: Band score of 7.5
- Raw scores of 30-32: Band score of 7.0
- Raw scores of 27-29: Band score of 6.5
- Raw scores of 23-26: Band score of 6.0
- Raw scores of 19-22: Band score of 5.5
- Raw scores of 15-18: Band score of 5.0
- Raw scores of 13-14: Band score of 4.5
- Raw scores of 10-12: Band score of 4.0
- Raw scores of 8-9: Band score of 3.5
- Raw scores of 6-7: Band score of 3.0
- Raw scores of 4-5: Band score of 2.5
For the IELTS general training reading test, the raw scores conversion is listed below.
- Raw scores of 40: Band score of 9.0
- Raw scores of 39: Band score of 8.5
- Raw scores of 37-38: Band score of 8.0
- Raw scores of 36: Band score of 7.5
- Raw scores of 34-35: Band score of 7.0
- Raw scores of 32-33: Band score of 6.5
- Raw scores of 30-31: Band score of 6.0
- Raw scores of 27-29: Band score of 5.5
- Raw scores of 23-26: Band score of 5.0
- Raw scores of 19-22: Band score of 4.5
- Raw scores of 15-18: Band score of 4.0
- Raw scores of 12-14: Band score of 3.5
- Raw scores of 9-11: Band score of 3.0
- Raw scores of 6-8: Band score of 2.5
Writing & Speaking (Subjective Criteria)
A subjective scoring system is used for the Writing and Speaking test sections unlike the objective scoring utilized in the Listening and Reading sections. Each section has four criteria, with each accounting for 25% of the final score for each section.
How is the Writing Section Scored?
There are two tasks to be taken in the Writing section with Task 2 having more effect on the final grade. The 4 criteria include task achievement/response, coherence and cohesion, lexical resource, and grammatical range and accuracy.
- Task Achievement/Response (25%): In Task 1, it checks how you show data clearly, putting emphasis on key points. During Task 2, it determines your ability to construct your argument using relevant information.
- Coherence and Cohesion (25%): This focuses on how you organize your thoughts and connect them with each other. It measures how good you are in paragraph organization and use of linking words.
- Lexical Resource (25%): It measures your word choices, if they are formed correctly, spelled right, and are appropriate for the topic.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy (25%): This centers on your correct use of tenses, punctuation, and grammar correctness as a whole.
How is the Speaking Section Scored?
The Speaking section is conducted in a face-to-face setup and has three parts: an introduction, a long turn, and a discussion. It follows 4 criteria for scoring that include fluency and coherence, lexical resource, grammatical range and accuracy, and pronunciation.
- Fluency and Coherence (25%): This measures how you speak and whether you can talk about topics without too many pauses.
- Lexical Resource (25%): This focuses on the depth of your vocabulary. It checks if your choice of words is related to the topic and if it fits the context.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy (25%): This measures your use of both simple and complex sentences, keeping consistent correct tenses, and sounding naturally as you speak.
- Pronunciation (25%): This checks how you say words and sounds, especially your tone, word stress, speech rhythm, and whether listeners can easily understand you.
How is Your Overall Band Score Calculated?
To compute for your overall IELTS band score, take the average of your four individual section scores. Specific rounding rules are implemented for a standardized rounding off of your result. For those seeking a more convenient way to obtain their overall score, various online resources provide an IELTS band score calculation tool. This tool allows you to input your individual section scores and automatically calculates your overall band score, taking the necessary rounding rules into account. Utilizing such a tool can help streamline the process and ensure accuracy in your results.
For a step-by-step approach – add your four section scores together and divide the sum by 4. If you have 6.5 in Listening, 7.0 in Reading, 6.0 in Writing, and 7.5 in Speaking, you’ll get a sum of 27. Divide this by 4, and the quotient of 6.75 is your overall IELTS score.
There are rounding rules used by IELTS for all test results. If your average ends in .25, it rounds up to the next half band. For averages ending in .75, it rounds up to the next whole band. Scores ending in other decimal values will be rounded up to the nearest half or whole band.