The scoring system is very straightforward. First, each section is graded based on the quality of the answers. These scores are called Raw scores. This is followed by taking the average of the raw scores that leaves us with the final band score. The band score is out of 9.
Provided below is how each section is graded by an examiner. The ttbales given below represent what is the minimum score required to obtain a particular band score.
Listening
Raw score out of 40 | Band score |
16 | 5 |
23 | 6 |
30 | 7 |
35 | 8 |
Reading
Raw score out of 40 | Band score in General |
15 | 4 |
23 | 5 |
30 | 6 |
34-35 | 7 |
38 | 8 |
Writing
This section is graded on the grounds of the following factors:
Speaking
The individual is graded on the following virtues:
The IELTS administration created the IELTS scale that links the score of a test taker with the competency level of English.
Grade | Competency level | What does the grade indicate about the user? |
0 | No questions were attempted by the candidate. | This indicates that the candidate has almost negligible English skills. |
1 | Non-user | The candidate does not have any aptitude of English exempting a few generic words. |
2 | Intermittent user | The candidate has limited English skills and struggles with spoken and written English. |
3 | Extremely limited user | The candidate’s knowledge is confined to only general use of the language often accompanied by persistent mistakes during communication. |
4 | Limited user | The candidate is only familiar with the simple aspects of the language and struggles in understanding or using complex aspects. |
5 | Modest user | Such test takers have a good hold on simple English skills and can understand, though with some difficulty, complex skills in known situations. However, they are highly prone to making mistakes. |
6 | Competent user | These candidates tend to have a sufficient hold on the language to comprehend complex terms and phrases especially in their area of interest or expertise. However, inaccuracies, improper use and mistakes are still commonly seen. |
7 | Good user | The test taker can comprehend, express or use complex language and meticulous reasoning. Although,periodic errors, and improper usage are observed. |
8 | Very good user | Such candidates have a great understanding of the language. Errors and misunderstandings are occasionally present in only unfamiliar conditions. |
9 | Expert user | These candidates have an excellent and proper understanding of the language. Their use of the language is precise and articulate. |
