Most students who plan to study abroad opt for the IELTS exam to get into their preferred college as it is recognised worldwide, including Australia, Canada, the UK, the USA, Ireland, and New Zealand, as the preferred English language test. Those planning to take IELTS should know how to calculate the IELTS band score. It evaluates an individual's proficiency in Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.
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IELTS Test Format - Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking Section
How to Calculate IELTS Score?
IELTS Listening Section
IELTS Reading Section
IELTS Writing Section
IELTS Speaking Section
IELTS Score
Minimum IELTS Score Required
Calculate IELTS Score
Indian students can take the IELTS exam online whereas the paper-based format is also available in various countries. After giving the IELTS exam, it usually takes a period of two weeks to receive the IELTS results, depending upon the format you choose. To access the IELTS scores, applicants must visit the official website of IDP. Test-takers will be provided with their IELTS scores for each of the four sections on a scale of 1 to 9, along with an overall IELTS band score.
Candidates must understand the method for calculating IELTS band scores. Additionally, it is recommended to gain a comprehensive understanding of how the scoring system operates. In this article, you will learn about how IELTS band scores are calculated.
IELTS Test Format - Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking Section
Familiarizing oneself with the format of the IELTS test is crucial for maximizing his/her score and opening doors to studying abroad. It is important to note that there are two types of IELTS tests: the IELTS Academic and the IELTS General Training. Both tests consist of sections mentioned below:
Listening Section
Reading Section
Writing Section
Speaking Section
IELTS Academic Test: The IELTS Academic examination is designed for those who wish to pursue higher education at a university in an English-speaking nation.
IELTS General Training Test: The IELTS General Training examination is undertaken by individuals who are seeking to pursue education, employment, or residency in countries where English is the primary language.
How to Calculate IELTS Score?
It is crucial to know the calculation process of the IELTS band score. The IELTS examination is graded on a scale ranging from 1 (the lowest) to 9 (the highest). Additionally, candidates can receive scores with increments of 0.5, such as 5.5 or 6.5. Each section (Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking) is assigned a band score, along with an overall band score. The overall band score is determined by averaging all the individual section scores. To ensure accuracy, the IELTS band scores are rounded to the nearest whole or half band.
For Example:
Scenario 1: If a candidate obtains 5.5 for Reading, 5.5 for Listening, 4.0 for Writing, and 6.0 for Speaking, the IELTS Band Score of the candidate will be: (5.5 + 5.5 + 4.0 + 6.0) ÷ 4 = 5.25 i.e., the IELTS score will be 5.5.
Scenario 2: If a candidate obtains 5.0 for Listening, 4.5 for Reading, 4.0 for Writing, and 6.0 for Speaking, the IELTS Band Score of the candidate will be: (5.0 + 4.5 + 4.0 + 6.0) ÷ 4 = 4.875 i.e., the IELTS score will be 5.
In the IELTS Result, a candidate will receive a band score for each section as well as an overall band score, which is calculated by averaging the band scores for Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking. The band scores in IELTS are either given as a whole number or rounded up to the nearest half-band score.
Below are several illustrations that demonstrate the functioning of IELTS score banding.
If a candidate’s overall IELTS band score is 6.75, his/her final score will be 7.
If a candidate’s overall IELTS band score is 4.25, his/her final score will be raised to 4.5.
If a candidate’s overall IELTS band score is 5.85, his/her final score will be 6.
If a candidate’s overall IELTS band score is 5.1, his/her score will be 5 since it is the closest whole band score.
IELTS 2025 Writing Task 1 & 2 - Study Materials
Aspirants who are appearing for IELTS exam can download this eBook which have complete study material for academic writing task 1 (Data Interpretation) and academic writing task 2 (Essays) sections.
The IELTS Listening section is specifically designed to assess a candidate’s proficiency in:
Comprehending the key concepts and specific factual details
Recognizing the viewpoints, positions, and attitude of the speaker
Tracking the progression of ideas and arguments
The IELTS Listening examination consists of 40 questions, with each accurate response earning the student one point. Consequently, the highest possible raw score attainable is 40. Subsequently, a band score between band 1 and band 9 is assigned depending on a candidate’s raw score.
How to Calculate IELTS Listening Band Score?
The score for the IELTS Listening section is determined by averaging the scores obtained in the four different sections of the listening test.
The examination consists of audio recordings that you will need to listen to, followed by answering questions related to the content. There are four recordings delivered by native English speakers, each accompanied by ten questions, resulting in a grand total of 40 questions. Each recording focuses on a distinct type of exercise such as:
Answering all 40 questions correctly will earn you a total of 40 marks. It is highly recommended to try your best to answer every question in order to enhance your IELTS listening score, as there is no penalty for incorrect responses. Your band score is determined based on the total number of correct answers you provide.
Analyzing the specific information within a passage
Quickly glancing through and searching for specific details
Grasping the logic behind arguments and their significance
Identifying the author's viewpoint, attitudes, and intentions
The IELTS Reading assessment consists of 40 questions, with each accurate response earning the student one point. Consequently, the highest possible raw score attainable is 40. Subsequently, a band score between band 1 and band 9 is assigned according to a candidate’s raw score.
How to Calculate IELTS Reading Band Score?
In the Reading section, you will be required to respond to a total of 40 questions. These questions encompass a range of formats, including multiple choice, True/False/Not Given, matching, and sentence completion.
Unlike the Speaking and Writing tests, where answers can be subjective, in the Reading test, your responses are either deemed correct or incorrect. Consequently, the marking scheme differs slightly. For every accurate answer, you will be awarded one mark. The cumulative number of marks you obtain will determine your band score.
Demonstrate his/her extensive vocabulary and accurate grammar
Elaborate on and elucidate the information depicted in data, diagrams, and charts
The IELTS Writing score includes an assessment of a candidate’s Writing Task 1 and 2 responses. Candidates are given a band score for each of the four criterion areas: Task Achievement (for Task 1), Task Response (for Task 2), Coherence and Cohesion, Lexical Resource, and Grammatical Range and Accuracy. All four criteria carry equal weightage.
How to Calculate IELTS Writing Band Score?
The Writing test in IELTS is evaluated by an examiner across 4 different criteria, with each criterion accounting for 25% of your total score for that task.
IELTS Writing Band Score
Score Parameters
Task 1 (Task Achievement)
Presenting accurate details to give a comprehensive summary emphasizing important characteristics/phase specifics backed by relevant data.
Task 2 (Task Response)
Completing the assignment by responding to the inquiries, presenting pertinent arguments to back up the response, expressing personal viewpoints when required, and delivering a concise summary.
Cohesion and Coherence
Arranging thoughts and data into paragraphs, with each paragraph focusing on a specific central idea and utilizing a variety of connectors.
Lexical Resource
Spelling utilizing appropriate word combinations, preventing mistakes by employing alternative expressions, and incorporating a variety of terms where necessary.
Grammar Range and Accuracy
Using a variety of tenses, employing a range of sentence structures, utilizing proper punctuation, and avoiding errors.
IELTS Speaking Section
The primary purpose of the IELTS Speaking test is to assess a candidate’s proficiency in spoken English. This test involves a conversation between the candidate and an examiner, which aims to replicate a genuine and engaging real-life interaction.
The examination will evaluate a candidate’s capacity to:
Display proficiency and consistency in his/her verbal expression. For example- how effectively a candidate can connect thoughts and construct logical and seamless sentences.
Exhibit his/her variety of vocabulary and how precisely he/she employs it in relevant discussions. For example- how adeptly he/she can enhance conversations with vivid details, depth, and description.
Maintain a fluid dialogue with clear pronunciation
Present his/her perspective, engage in discourse, and provide reasoning for his/her viewpoints.
How IELTS Speaking Score is Calculated?
The IELTS Speaking band descriptors consist of bands ranging from 0-9. These descriptors are a mean calculation of all the skills demonstrated by candidates in the IELTS Speaking test. The scoring criteria for IELTS Speaking is determined by the candidate's comprehension of different accents and their ability to effectively communicate in a face-to-face conversation.
IELTS Speaking Band Score
Score Parameters
Fluency
Speaking at length, conversing without interruption or hesitation while utilizing easily comprehensible connectors for the audience.
Lexical Resource
Rewording and utilizing various word groupings, incorporating common phrases, and employing uncommon terminology
Grammar Range and Accuracy
Ensuring grammatical accuracy by utilizing various tenses and employing proper sentence structures
Pronunciation
It is important that the speech can be understood by all listeners, regardless of their accent, through the use of appropriate intonation and accurate pronunciation
IELTS Band Scores Descriptors
Here’s the IELTS band scores chart to understand the descriptor of each band score.
IELTS Band score
Skill Level
Descriptors
0
Test Not Attempted
The candidate taking the test did not provide answers to the questions.
1
Non-user level
The candidate cannot effectively utilize the language, except for a limited number of isolated terms.
2
Intermittent level
The candidate taking the test finds it challenging to grasp spoken and written English.
3
Extremely limited level
The candidate grasps only the overall idea in extremely familiar contexts. Communication breakdowns happen repeatedly.
4
Limited level
The candidate is restricted to familiar situations only. He/she is not capable of using difficult language and finds it challenging to understand and express.
5
Modest level
The candidate taking the test possesses a limited grasp of the English language and is capable of comprehending the general message. He/she frequently commits errors, yet he/she is able to effectively engage in basic communication within his/her specific area of expertise.
6
Competent level
The candidate demonstrates a strong grasp of the language, albeit with occasional errors and inaccuracies. He/she exhibits a good understanding of complex language in familiar contexts.
7
Good level
The candidate demonstrates a strong grasp of the English language, although there are occasional inaccuracies and inappropriate usage in specific contexts. He/she exhibits a solid understanding of intricate reasoning and effectively navigates complex language structures.
8
Very good level
The language proficiency of the test taker is excellent, with only a few minor inaccuracies. He/she demonstrates great competence in dealing with complex situations. However, there is a possibility of the candidate misinterpreting unfamiliar scenarios.
9
Expert level
The candidate demonstrates full mastery of the language, exhibiting fluency in English and a thorough comprehension of its nuances.
IELTS Score
The IELTS band score chart is released within 13 days of the test date for the paper-based test at the ETS official website. Whereas, candidates can get access to the IELTS computer-based test scores within 3-5 days after the test.
IELTS band scores are generally valid for 2 years from the test date. However, some educational institutions might have different policies for the acceptance of IELTS band scores.
How To Download IELTS Scorecard?
Students can get their IELTS band score chart online by browsing the ETS official website. Follow the below-mentioned instructions to download the IELTS scores:
Visit the official IELTS website.
Log in using the login details.
Click on the "View Results" or "Download TRF" section.
Enter the Test Report Form (TRF) number.
Download the IELTS score report.
Minimum IELTS Score Required
The minimum IELTS score required varies depending on the country, university, or organisation you are applying to. Therefore, there is no universal standard for the minimum IELTS score. It is important to note that each university/college/organization may have its own specific set of requirements when it comes to the IELTS score, which can significantly impact an candidate's chances of being selected.
The IELTS Listening examination comprises a total of 40 questions. Students are required to respond to these questions, and for every accurate answer, they receive one mark. The scores, ranging from 0 to 40, are then converted to the IELTS nine-band scale. The final scores are reported in whole and half bands.
Q: What is the average IELTS score required by universities in Canada?
A:
Canadian universities have different IELTS score thresholds. Undergraduate programs usually require a minimum score of 5.5 in each section and an overall score of 6.0.
Q: If I decide to cancel my IELTS exam, will I receive a refund for the exam fee?
A:
Your IELTS Exam Fees will be reimbursed, deducting the exam's 25% administrative fee. To be eligible for a refund, you must submit a request for exam cancellation at least five weeks prior to the exam date. However, if you cancel on the day of the exam, no refund will be provided. In order to obtain a refund, you must provide a valid medical certificate within five days of the test date, excluding local administrative fees.
Q: How many sections does the IELTS exam consist of?
A:
The IELTS test consists of four sections: Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking. The candidates undergo evaluation based on these four criteria. The International English Language Testing System (IELTS exam) offers two formats, namely IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training Test. IELTS Academic is recognized by universities globally, allowing candidates to apply for undergraduate or postgraduate programs.
Yes, admission to a German private university with 52% in bachelors, 6.0 IELTS band, and a 1-year gap is possible, but options are limited.
Private universities in Germany are more flexible than public ones. You can apply for courses in management, business, or IT fields. However, you must justify the gap year and ensure a strong Statement of Purpose (SOP).
It’s better to contact universities directly, as some may ask for additional documents or foundation courses before admission.
You are running short of time usually the ideal time would be 2–3 months prior,i advice that you start with your applications that you can quicky begin with your study abroad procedure.
It depends on the university you are applying to.
Most German universities do not require
GATE
for admission to a Master's in Biotechnology. However, some universities may ask for the
GRE
, especially if you are applying to a highly competitive program.
You should check the specific admission requirements of the universities you are interested in. Generally, having
IELTS (or TOEFL)
and a
German language proficiency certificate
(if the course is in German) is enough.
