IELTS uses a unique 9-band scale to measure English proficiency. This guide explains exactly what each band means, how scores are calculated, which scores you need for universities, immigration, and professional bodies, and how to improve.
1–9
Score range
0.5
Increment steps
4
Sections averaged
Score Scale
Each band corresponds to an official language descriptor defined by the IELTS partners. These are the globally standardised definitions.
Full operational command of the language. Appropriate, accurate and fluent with complete understanding.
Fully operational command with only occasional unsystematic inaccuracies. Handles complex detailed argumentation well.
Operational command. Occasional inaccuracies, inappropriate usage and misunderstandings in some situations.
Effective use despite some inaccuracies and misunderstandings. Can use and understand fairly complex language.
Partial command. Copes with overall meaning in most situations, though likely to make many mistakes.
Basic competence limited to familiar situations. Has frequent problems in understanding.
Calculation
| Correct Answers | Band Score |
|---|---|
| 39–40 | 9.0 |
| 37–38 | 8.5 |
| 35–36 | 8.0 |
| 33–34 | 7.5 |
| 30–32 | 7.0 |
| 27–29 | 6.5 |
| 23–26 | 6.0 |
| 19–22 | 5.5 |
Example Calculation
Requirements
Requirements vary significantly by institution and purpose. Always verify directly with your specific programme or authority.
Many UK universities require minimum section scores (e.g. no band below 6.0)
IRCC uses the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) conversion table
Points tested (PT) visas award extra points for scores of 8+ overall
Always verify directly with the registering body - requirements can change
Strategy
Improve one section by 0.5 at a time - a 0.5 gain in all 4 sections lifts your overall by 0.5 band.
Writing and Speaking are the hardest to move. Prioritise them early; Reading and Listening scores are more quickly improved.
Overall Band Score is the mean of four sections, rounded to the nearest 0.5. 6.125 rounds to 6.0; 6.375 rounds to 6.5.
IELTS One Skill Retake (since 2023): resit a single section within 60 days if one score is dragging your overall down.
FAQ
Take a free IELTS practice test and see what band you are at right now - no registration required.