What are IELTS Band Scores?

How IELTS band score is calculated

IELTS scores range from Band 0 to Band 9. You receive a separate band score for each module (Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking). Your overall band score is the average of these four module scores and it is rounded to the nearest whole or half band.

Rounding rules (overall band)

If the average ends with .25, it rounds up to the next .5 (example: 6.25 → 6.5).
If the average ends with .75, it rounds up to the next whole band (example: 6.75 → 7.0).
Other averages are rounded to the nearest whole or half band as per standard IELTS rules.

Example

If your module scores are: Listening 6.5, Reading 6.5, Writing 6.0, Speaking 7.0, then the average is (6.5 + 6.5 + 6.0 + 7.0) / 4 = 6.5. Your overall band score becomes 6.5.

IELTS band score chart (0–9)

This table explains the typical meaning of each band level.

Band	Level	Meaning
9	Expert	Near-complete control of English; highly accurate and fluent, with strong understanding.
8	Very good	Strong command of English with occasional errors; handles complex language well.
7	Good	Generally effective use of English; some inaccuracies may appear, especially in unfamiliar situations.
6	Competent	Effective communication overall; some errors and misunderstandings can occur, especially with complex ideas.
5	Modest	Basic communication is possible; limited control leads to frequent mistakes.
4	Limited	Communication is mainly possible in familiar contexts; problems with understanding and expression are common.
3	Extremely limited	Conveys only basic meaning in very familiar situations; communication breakdowns happen often.
2	Intermittent	Very limited ability; struggles to understand English in most situations.
1	Non-user	Can use only a few isolated words; cannot communicate effectively.
0	Did not attempt	Did not answer the questions.

Marking criteria (module-wise)

Listening & Reading

Both are scored by counting correct answers (raw score), then converting to a band score using a standard conversion table.

Writing

Marked by examiners using criteria such as task response/achievement, coherence & cohesion, vocabulary (lexical resource), and grammar accuracy/range.

Speaking

Marked by examiners using fluency & coherence, vocabulary, grammar accuracy/range, and pronunciation.

Practice with RST

Take a timed mock test and track your progress in your dashboard.

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Listening score: raw score to band (example)

The exact conversion can vary by test version. Below is an approximate reference.

Correct answers (out of 40)	Listening band
40	9
35	8
30	7
23	6
16	5

Reading score: Academic vs General Training (example)

Academic and General Training reading can have different conversions. Below is an approximate reference.

Academic Reading

Correct (out of 40)	Band
40	9
35	8
30	7
23	6
15	5

General Training Reading

Correct (out of 40)	Band
35	7
30	6
23	5
15	4

FAQs

Is 6.75 rounded to 7.0 in IELTS overall band?

Yes. If your overall average ends in .75, IELTS rounds it up to the next whole band (example: 6.75 → 7.0).

How long are IELTS results valid?

IELTS results are typically accepted as valid for two years from the test date (rules can vary by institution).

Can I improve my band score with mock tests?

Yes. Timed practice helps you build speed, accuracy, and confidence. Use the RST mock tests and review your previous attempts from the dashboard.

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What are IELTS Band Scores?