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Understanding the Table of IELTS Band Score: A Complete Guide
Explore the table of IELTS band score to understand how IELTS results are calculated. Know what each band means for you.
The IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is a globally accepted English proficiency test. Whether you're applying to universities, immigration programs, or professional opportunities abroad, understanding the table of IELTS band score is essential.
Each IELTS band score reflects a specific level of English ability, and knowing how the scores are calculated can help you set realistic goals and interpret your results accurately.
What Is the IELTS Band Score?
The IELTS test evaluates your skills in four areas:
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Listening
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Reading
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Writing
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Speaking
Each section is scored on a band scale from 0 to 9. Your overall IELTS band score is the average of these four individual scores.
IELTS Band Score Table – Section-wise & Overall
Here is the official table of IELTS band score to help you understand what each band level means:
| Band Score | Skill Level | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 9 | Expert User | Fully fluent, accurate, and well-structured English |
| 8 | Very Good User | Only occasional mistakes; complex argument handling |
| 7 | Good User | Frequent command of English; some inaccuracies |
| 6 | Competent User | Generally effective use; some misunderstandings |
| 5 | Modest User | Partial command; frequent issues in understanding |
| 4 | Limited User | Basic competence; frequent breakdowns |
| 3 | Extremely Limited User | Understands only general meaning |
| 2 | Intermittent User | Great difficulty in communication |
| 1 | Non-User | No ability except a few words |
| 0 | Did Not Attempt the Test | No answers provided |
How is the Overall Band Score Calculated?
The overall band score is the average of the four section scores, rounded to the nearest 0.5 or whole band.
Example 1:
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Listening: 7.5
-
Reading: 6.5
-
Writing: 6.0
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Speaking: 7.0
-
Total = (7.5 + 6.5 + 6.0 + 7.0) ÷ 4 = 6.75 → Rounded to 7.0
Example 2:
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Listening: 6.0
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Reading: 6.0
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Writing: 5.5
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Speaking: 5.5
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Total = 5.75 → Rounded to 6.0
Score Breakdown for Listening and Reading
The Listening and Reading sections have 40 questions each. Your score is converted into a band using raw marks. Here's an estimated conversion chart:
Listening Score Conversion Table
| Correct Answers | Band Score |
|---|---|
| 39–40 | 9.0 |
| 37–38 | 8.5 |
| 35–36 | 8.0 |
| 32–34 | 7.5 |
| 30–31 | 7.0 |
| 26–29 | 6.5 |
| 23–25 | 6.0 |
Reading Score Conversion Table (Academic Module)
| 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 |
(Note: The score conversion for the General Training Reading test is slightly more lenient.)
Why the Table of IELTS Band Score Matters
Understanding the table of IELTS band score helps in:
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Setting goals for university admission or visa eligibility
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Evaluating performance post-exam
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Identifying weak areas for improvement
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Knowing university requirements (e.g., 6.5 overall with no section below 6.0)
IELTS Band Score Requirements by Country
Different countries and institutions have varying score expectations. Here’s a brief snapshot:
| Country | Minimum Band Required |
|---|---|
| UK | 6.5–7.0 (Academic) |
| Canada | 6.0–7.5 (Varies by program) |
| USA | 6.5–7.0 (Graduate studies) |
| Australia | 6.0+ (Student visa) |
| New Zealand | 6.5+ (University level) |
Always check specific requirements of your desired institution or visa category.
Tips to Improve Your IELTS Band Score
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Understand the format – Take time to familiarize yourself with all test sections.
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Practice regularly – Use mock tests and official practice materials.
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Get expert feedback – Especially important for speaking and writing.
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Focus on time management – Practice completing sections within the given time.
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Join a coaching program – Institutes like Mindmine Global provide structured training and personal feedback.
How Mindmine Global Helps
At Mindmine Global, we provide:
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Certified IELTS trainers
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Regular mock tests
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One-on-one speaking and writing feedback
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Score improvement strategies
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Complete exam registration assistance
Our students consistently achieve their target bands through focused preparation and expert support.
Conclusion
The table of IELTS band score is a critical reference tool for students and professionals preparing for the IELTS exam. It tells you not just your score, but also your English proficiency level as understood globally. Knowing how the scoring works helps you plan, prepare, and improve effectively.
If you're looking to boost your IELTS score and need guidance, Mindmine Global offers expert training and personalized coaching in Delhi.
