IELTS Band Score
IELTS band scores explained
IELTS reports a band from 0 to 9 for each skill and an overall band. Half bands such as 6.5 are common.
Check your band with a mock testHow the overall band is calculated
The overall band is the average of the four skill bands, rounded to the nearest half band. An average ending in .25 rounds up to .5, and one ending in .75 rounds up to the next whole band.
Example: Listening 7, Reading 6.5, Writing 6, Speaking 6.5 gives an average of 6.5.
Listening and Reading scores
Both tests have 40 questions. Your raw score (number correct) is converted to a band. As a rough guide, around 30 correct answers is often near band 7, but the exact conversion varies by test and by Academic or General Training Reading.
Writing and Speaking scores
These are marked against public band descriptors with four criteria each. Improving your weakest criterion is usually the fastest way to move up half a band.
Frequently asked questions
What band score do I need?
It depends on your university, employer or visa. Many universities ask for 6.5 overall; check the exact requirement with the organisation you are applying to.
Related IELTS guides
IELTS Mock Test
Free IELTS Mock Test with Band Score
IELTS Writing
IELTS Writing Practice with AI Feedback
IELTS Speaking
IELTS Speaking Practice: Parts 1, 2 and 3