To obtain a satisfactory IELTS Band Score, it is necessary to be realistic. If the goal is to reach a
certain level of English proficiency, success can only be achieved with much practice. It is important
to know what an IELTS score in any of the Sub-tests means before you set yourself a goal. An outline
of the Overall Band Scale levels is given below:
9 Expert User -Has fully operational command of the language: appropriate, accurate and
fluent with complete understanding.
8 Very Good User
unsystematic inaccuracies and inappropriacies. Misunderstandings may
occur in unfamiliar situations. Handles complex detailed argumentation well.
7 Good User
inappropriacies and misunderstandings in some situations. Generally handles
complex language well and understands detailed reasoning.
6 Competent User
inappropriacies and misunderstandings. Can use and understand fairly complex
language, particularly in familiar situations.
5 Modest User
situations, though is likely to make many mistakes. Should be able to handle
basic communication in own field.
4 Limited User
understanding and expression. Is not able to use complex language.
3 Extremely Limited User
Frequent breakdowns in communication occur.
2 Intermittent User
using isolated words or short formulae in familiar situations and to meet
immediate needs. Has great difficulty understanding spoken and -written English.
1 Non User
isolated words.
0 Did Not Attempt The Test
It takes three months of regular intensive practice to improve by one overall Band
- No assessable information provided- Essentially has no ability to use the language beyond possibly a few- No real communication is possible except for the most basic information- Conveys and understands only general meaning in very familiar situations.- Basic competence is limited to familiar situations. Has frequent problems in- Has partial command of the language, coping with overall meaning in most- Has generally effective command of the language despite some inaccuracies,- Has operational command of the language, though with occasional inaccuracies,- Has fully operational command of the language with only occasional