IELTS Score Calculator
Calculate your overall IELTS band score from section scores
Quick Examples
Your Overall IELTS Band Score
Listening
Reading
Writing
Speaking
Raw Average
Before rounding
Strongest Section
Score:
Focus Area
Score:
Points Needed for Common Requirements
Band 6.0
Band 6.5
Band 7.0
Band 7.5
Band Score Scale
IELTS Band Descriptors
| Band | Level | Description |
|---|---|---|
Calculation Steps
Add all section scores:
+ + + =
Divide by 4 (number of sections):
÷ 4 =
Round to nearest half band:
→
(.25+ rounds up to .5, .75+ rounds up to next whole)
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About IELTS Score Calculator
What is IELTS?
The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a globally recognized standardized test that measures English language proficiency for non-native speakers. It is widely accepted for study, work, and migration purposes by universities, employers, and immigration authorities in English-speaking countries.
How IELTS Scoring Works
IELTS uses a unique 9-band scoring system:
- Section Scores: Each of the four sections (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking) is scored on a scale of 0 to 9 in half-band increments (e.g., 6.0, 6.5, 7.0)
- Overall Band Score: Calculated as the average of your four section scores, rounded to the nearest half band
The Formula
Overall Band Score = (Listening + Reading + Writing + Speaking) ÷ 4
Rounding Rules
The IELTS uses specific rounding rules:
- If the average ends in .25, it rounds up to the next half band (e.g., 6.25 → 6.5)
- If the average ends in .75, it rounds up to the next whole band (e.g., 6.75 → 7.0)
- If the average ends in .125 or less after a decimal, it rounds down (e.g., 6.125 → 6.0)
- If the average ends in .625 or less after .5, it rounds down to the half band (e.g., 6.625 → 6.5)
Example Calculation
- Listening: 6.5
- Reading: 6.5
- Writing: 5.0
- Speaking: 7.0
- Average: (6.5 + 6.5 + 5.0 + 7.0) ÷ 4 = 6.25
- Overall Band Score: 6.5 (6.25 rounds up to 6.5)
IELTS Band Score Descriptors
| Band Score | Skill Level | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 9 | Expert | Full operational command of English |
| 8 | Very Good | Fully operational command with occasional inaccuracies |
| 7 | Good | Operational command with occasional errors |
| 6 | Competent | Generally effective command despite some inaccuracies |
| 5 | Modest | Partial command, coping with overall meaning |
| 4 | Limited | Basic competence in familiar situations |
| 3 | Extremely Limited | Conveys and understands only general meaning |
| 2 | Intermittent | Great difficulty understanding spoken and written English |
| 1 | Non-User | No ability to use the language |
| 0 | Did Not Attempt | No assessable information provided |
Common IELTS Score Requirements
| Purpose | Typical Requirement |
|---|---|
| UK Skilled Worker Visa | 4.0 - 6.5 (varies by job) |
| Australian PR (General Skilled) | 6.0+ (each section) |
| Canadian Express Entry | 6.0+ (CLB 7) |
| US Universities (Undergraduate) | 6.0 - 7.0 |
| UK Universities (Undergraduate) | 5.5 - 7.0 |
| UK Universities (Postgraduate) | 6.5 - 7.5 |
| MBA Programs | 7.0+ |
| Professional Registration (Nursing, Medicine) | 7.0+ |
Tips for Improving Your IELTS Score
- Take Practice Tests: Use official IELTS practice materials under timed conditions
- Focus on Weak Areas: Identify which sections need the most improvement
- Learn the Format: Each section has specific question types and strategies
- Time Management: Practice completing each section within the time limit
- Expand Vocabulary: A wider vocabulary improves all four sections
- Practice Speaking: Record yourself and analyze your fluency and pronunciation
Frequently Asked Questions
What's a good IELTS score?
A "good" score depends on your goals. For university admission, most institutions require 6.0-7.0. For skilled migration, 7.0+ is often preferred. Top universities and competitive programs may require 7.5+.
How long are IELTS scores valid?
IELTS scores are typically valid for 2 years from the test date.
What's the difference between IELTS Academic and General Training?
The Listening and Speaking tests are the same, but Reading and Writing differ. Academic is for university/professional registration; General Training is for work experience, training, or migration.
Can I retake IELTS?
Yes, you can retake IELTS as many times as you want. There's no limit on attempts.
Note: IELTS scoring criteria and band descriptors are set by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge Assessment English.