• IELTS

What is a good score for IELTS?

3039 Reads
3 min Read

By:CANAM Group
Updated On:Feb 20,2024 04:17 PM IST

An excellent IELTS score usually ranges from 7 to 9 out of 9, which denotes a high level of English ability. But what makes a decent score can differ depending on personal objectives and what organizations or institutions want. What constitutes a decent score ultimately depends on the particular goal of the test as well as the requirements established by the organization that will be receiving the results.

Wondering what a good score for IELTS is? For the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), it is essential to understand that the definition of "good" can vary depending on individual goals and the requirements of institutions. Generally, a score of 7 or above (out of 9) is considered good, as it indicates a high English proficiency level.

However, specific requirements may differ for different purposes, such as immigration, academic admission, or employment. Ultimately, the definition of a good score on the IELTS depends on its relevance to the test taker's objectives and the standards set by the receiving institution or entity.

What is a Good IELTS Score?

Most international universities will accept applicants with an IELTS Band Score of 7 or higher. However, an IELTS score of seven bands is regarded as good. Candidates should be aware, nevertheless, that raising their IELTS score would only benefit them.

How to Get a Good IELTS Score?

Here are some pointers to help candidates achieve a high IELTS score:

• Before starting their study, candidates must comprehend the exam format and create an appropriate plan that considers their time constraints.

• It is recommended that candidates work on their English language skills. Anyone can achieve this through reading and listening to English-language media, practicing grammar and sentence structure, and increasing their vocabulary.

• Aim to focus on the test's weaker portions and prepare enough mock exams. Ignoring them could make it more challenging to perform on test day. After taking the mock exams, candidates should assess their performance and adjust their study strategies.

How is the IELTS Score Calculated?

IELTS scores range from 0 to 9. The average score for each component computes the overall band score on the IELTS. Every section has an equal-weighted score. The IELTS final result is rounded to the closest whole number. A candidate's score would be rounded to the nearest whole number (6.5 in the case of a 6.25 score and to a whole number (7 in the case of a 6.75 score). The user's skill, described before, can be measured for each score. A candidate is considered a very excellent language user if they earned an 8; conversely, if they scored a 4, they are considered limited language users and may have trouble understanding and using the language.

Internationally, organizations and institutions from English-speaking nations accept IELTS scores. People taking the IELTS exam to immigrate abroad should be aware of what a good score on the exam means, depending on the kind of visa they need. A person's goals for their IELTS score—whether they be academic, professional, or immigration—constitute a significant factor. A score that the college, university, or institute accepts could help an international student obtain a student visa.

Purpose of Taking the Test

Here are some of the major purpose of taking the IELTS test:

University Admissions	For most foreign colleges, a score of 7.0 or higher is often regarded as competitive. Top-tier universities, however, might need more excellent scores—between 7.5 and 8.0. Keep in mind that specific requirements differ based on the program and university.
Immigration	The required IELTS score for visa applications varies throughout nations. To establish the benchmark, investigate the particular specifications of the intended nation.
Professional Development	Some employers may have their cutoff points for IELTS scores when hiring multilingual individuals. Look into what is needed to enter the desired industry or position.

IELTS Band Scores

Understanding IELTS band scores is necessary before determining an IELTS good score. The IELTS exam has a score range of 0 to 9. The table below provides information about each band's competence level. Worldwide, corporations have faith in IELTS scores. Their IELTS band scores determine candidates' English language proficiency. It indicates proficiency in speaking, listening, reading, and writing English.

To help candidates better comprehend the IELTS result, here’s detailed information about the various Band scores given below.

IELTS Band Score	Skill Level	Description
9	Expert	Proficient user and possess a functional command of the language. The candidate can speak and write English accurately and with fluency.
8	Very good	An expert user who possesses a functional mastery of the English language.
7	Good	A proficient user with a vital mastery of the English language, despite the odd error.
6	Competent user	A capable person with a vital mastery of the language yet with occasional errors and improper use of it in specific contexts.
5	Modest user	Moderate users who can manage basic conversation in their field and have a limited mastery of the language
4	Limited user	Limited user who only understands the language in conditions they are comfortable with.
3	Extremely limited user	When there are frequent communication failures, candidates only grasp the gist of circumstances that he/she is familiar with.
2	Intermittent	The test-taker needs help comprehending written and spoken English.
1	Non user	The exam taker can only utilize English for a few select terms.
0	Did not attempt	The test taker did not answer the questions.

IELTS Scoring for Different Sections

The IELTS exam pattern consists of 4 different sections, including Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking; each of the 40 questions in the Reading and Listening portions can result in a maximum score of 40. The IELTS administrator converts the raw scores to the band score before awarding the marks. Different band descriptions have been provided for the Speaking and Writing components of the IELTS exam. The combined score from these two areas will be the average of these descriptions.

The band descriptions for the Writing component are task achievement, coherence and cohesion, lexical resource, grammatical range, and accuracy. The band descriptions for the Speaking part are fluency and coherence, lexical resource, grammatical variety and correctness, and pronunciation.

IELTS Scores Validity

Candidates need to know that their IELTS scores are good for two years. However, the IELTS results have a three-year validity period for applications for skilled migration. While the general validity is 2 years, certain institutions might have different requirements.

*For immigration purposes in Australia, IELTS scores remain valid for 3 years.

Conclusion

A strong IELTS score varies based on personal objectives, educational institutions' or immigration policies, and visa rules. For most purposes, a score of seven or higher is regarded as satisfactory; however, a score of eight or higher is frequently preferred for competitive programs or scholarships. As a trustworthy educational consulting company, Canam can assist prospective test-takers in studying abroad and reaching their goals by offering them tools and advice specific to their needs and efficient study methods.

FAQ

Can I retake IELTS writing only?

Any one of the IELTS test sections—Listening, Reading, Writing, or Speaking can be retaken.

Is 6.5 a good score in IELTS?

The score band of 6.5 is considered as competent and is borderline B2/C1

Is IELTS 7 low?

The seven bands have a "Good" skill rating, which denotes "Excellent use of the language in some situations."

Is PTE easier than IELTS?

Aside from variations in the structure and style of assessment, both tests are relatively straightforward.

What is a fail score in IELTS?

In IELTS, there is no pass/fail score. Every test-taking performance is evaluated, and candidates receive a score between 1 and 9.

Get great articles direct to your inbox

The latest news, articles, and resources, sent straight to your inbox every month.

Popular Universities to Study Abroad

World class education waiting for you.

Navitas Group - SAE Institute of Technology - Atlanta Campus

Georgia, USA • 5 Programmes

Tuition Fee : USD 33728-33648 / year

Assiniboine Community College - Portage Campus

Manitoba, Canada • 1 Programmes

Tuition Fee : CAD 15000-15500 / year

Kaplan Group - Simmons University

Massachusetts, USA • 53 Programmes

Tuition Fee : USD 41000-48000 / year

British Columbia Institute of Technology - Annacis Island Campus

British Columbia, Canada • 3 Programmes

Tuition Fee : CAD 17000-20000 / year

University College Birmingham

England, UK • 72 Programmes

Tuition Fee : GBP 13000-14000 / year

INTO Group - Saint Louis University

Missouri, USA • 347 Programmes

Tuition Fee : USD 34200-59500 / year

INTO Group - Thomas Jefferson University - East Falls Campus

Pennsylvania, USA • 79 Programmes

Tuition Fee : USD 41900-50000 / year

Future Skills Academy - Manukau campus

Auckland, New Zealand • 3 Programmes

Tuition Fee : NZD 0-0 / year

View All Universities

Latest at CANAM

Events, webinar, college / university visits and more.

The International Education Fair

Study in Canada, UK, USA, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Germany, Ireland, France, UAE

New Delhi • 11:00AM

In-Person Event

University Visit - Fairleigh Dickinson University

Study in Canada • University Visit

Vadodara • 12:30PM

In-Person Event

University Visit - Crandall University

Study in Canada • University Visit

VV Nagar Anand • 01:00PM

In-Person Event

Top countries destinations

Popular university and colleges for Studying abroad.

Bond University Queensland
Central Queensland University - Rockhampton, North Campus Queensland
Charles Sturt University - Wagga Wagga Campus New South Wales
Deakin University - Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus Victoria
Engineering Institute of Technology - Perth campus Western Australia
Griffith University - Nathan Campus Queensland
La Trobe University - Bendigo Campus Victoria
LCI Melbourne - Art & Design School Victoria

Ara Institute of Canterbury - City Campus Southland
Aspire 2 International - Auckland Campus Auckland
Auckland University of Technology - City Campus Auckland
Eastern Institute of Technology - Hawke Bay Campus Hawke's Bay
Manukau Institute of Technology -Manukau Campus Auckland
Massey University - Auckland Campus Auckland
Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT) - Nelson Campus Southland
New Zealand Institute of Business & Technology (NZIBT) Auckland
The University of Waikato - Hamilton Campus Hamilton

Kent state university Ohio
San Jose State University California
Wright State University Ohio
Clark University Massachusetts
Rowan University New Jersey
Arkansas State University Arkansas
University of Wisconsin Milwaukee Wisconsin
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Illinois
University of Findlay Ohio

Popular English Language Proficiency Exams

IELTS Online

- Live Classes

Blogs and Articles

Curated content to keep you updated on the latest education trends, news and more.

Scholarships in France for Indian Students

Are you planning to study in France but are scared of the expensive tuition fees? But now there is no need to fear because you can take advantage of F...

Updated on • May 29,2025 05:22 PM IST • France

Intakes in Dubai for Indian Students

World-class universities, a multicultural environment and tax-free earnings are some of the benefits that attract Indian students to Dubai. However, i...

Updated on • May 27,2025 03:34 PM IST • Study in Dubai

France Student Visa 2025 – Requirements, Fees, Checklist & Application Process

Imagine this: Today is the day you will sit for your dream job interview. You practised all possible questions, wore formal attire, and collected all ...

Updated on • May 23,2025 03:36 PM IST • France

MBA in France for Indian Students in 2025

MBA is one of the most sought-after master’s programs worldwide. France is increasingly becoming popular as an overseas education destination. The r...

Updated on • May 22,2025 05:35 PM IST • France

PTE Accepted Universities in Australia

In recent years, PTE has emerged as one of the alternatives to IELTS to study abroad. Many top study-abroad destinations like USA, UK and New Zealand ...

Updated on • May 22,2025 05:31 PM IST • PTE

PTE Accepting Universities In USA

PTE stands among the most popular English language proficiency exams accepted by various institutions worldwide. Students applying to study in the USA...

Updated on • May 22,2025 05:24 PM IST • USA

MBBS in UK: Colleges, Fees, Eligibility and Scholarships

Starting a medical journey is a great choice, and pursuing a Bachelor of Medicine or Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) in the United Kingdom adds an extra la...

Updated on • May 22,2025 05:13 PM IST • UK

MBBS in Australia: Top Universities, Syllabus, Cost of Study, Eligibility, Scholarships & Jobs

Medical studies have taken the world by storm with its increasing popularity. The majority of international students prefer to study this course in Au...

Updated on • May 22,2025 04:53 PM IST • Australia

MBBS in Germany

Studying an MBBS in Germany offers a pathway to a world-class education in medicine, attracting thousands of aspiring doctors from around the globe ev...

Updated on • May 22,2025 04:36 PM IST • Study in Germany

Best Medical Colleges in USA

You looking for medical colleges in the USA is clear evidence that it is the best country to pursue medical courses. One of the most sought-after medi...

Updated on • May 22,2025 04:20 PM IST • USA

Highest Paying Jobs in New Zealand for International Students

Many students aspire to live and work in a country like New Zealand. And why not? Alongside its stunning scenery and vibrant culture, New Zealand is a...

Updated on • May 22,2025 01:03 PM IST • New Zealand

High Paying Jobs in Germany

Germany, a powerhouse of innovation and industry, offers a fantastic job market with excellent salaries and a strong work-life balance. Whether you're...

Updated on • May 22,2025 11:11 AM IST • Study in Canada

Fastest Growing Job Sectors in Germany in 2025

Thousands of job opportunities in Germany are waiting for Indians. Fill them before someone else grabs these. But how? Do you know which sector these ...

Updated on • May 20,2025 05:25 PM IST • Germany

Job Opportunities in Canada for Indians: Salaries, Best Job Sites & More

Canada has always been a highly sought-after destination for international students, thanks to its exceptional education, abundant job prospects, and ...

Updated on • May 20,2025 05:21 PM IST • Study in Canada

How to Get a Job in USA in 2025

USA is not just a great destination for studying abroad, but also for pursuing a full-time job. That’s why the internet is filled with queries like ...

Updated on • May 20,2025 05:20 PM IST • USA

Reasons to study Engineering Masters in Germany

When you think about Germany, the thing that instantly comes to mind is its safe roads, modern technology, the best cars in the world, and t...

Updated on • May 17,2025 01:22 PM IST • Study in Germany

Study in the USA after 12th

For countless Indian students, the dream to study in the USA after 12th is more than just an academic milestone- it’s a gateway to global exposure, ...

Updated on • May 15,2025 05:23 PM IST • USA

France Intakes in 2025

France is one of Europe's most popular study destinations, with 35 universities ranking in the QS World University Rankings 2025. French universities ...

Updated on • May 13,2025 03:54 PM IST • France

UK Scholarships for Indian Students 2025

Studying abroad is becoming a growing trend among Indian students as the opportunity not only allows them to explore modern and advanced education opt...

Updated on • May 03,2025 05:39 PM IST • UK • study in the UK

What is GPA? A Complete Guide for Students and Parents

Do you ever get overwhelmed by the number of grading systems in India and wonder why they can’t simply tell marks? Well, you are not alone. Each one...

Updated on • May 01,2025 01:56 PM IST • Study Abroad Guidance

What is a good score for IELTS?

Table of Contents

What is a Good IELTS Score?

How to Get a Good IELTS Score?

How is the IELTS Score Calculated?

Purpose of Taking the Test

IELTS Band Scores

IELTS Scoring for Different Sections

IELTS Scores Validity

Conclusion

FAQ

Events, webinar, college / university visits and more.

Popular university and colleges for Studying abroad.

Bond University Queensland

Central Queensland University - Rockhampton, North Campus Queensland

Charles Sturt University - Wagga Wagga Campus New South Wales

Deakin University - Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus Victoria

Engineering Institute of Technology - Perth campus Western Australia

Griffith University - Nathan Campus Queensland

La Trobe University - Bendigo Campus Victoria

LCI Melbourne - Art & Design School Victoria

University Canada West British Columbia

University of Windsor Ontario

Dalhousie University Nova Scotia

Carleton University Ontario

Cape Breton University Nova Scotia

University of ottawa Ontario

University of saskatchewan Saskatchewan

University of regina Saskatchewan

University of guelph Ontario

Ara Institute of Canterbury - City Campus Southland

Aspire 2 International - Auckland Campus Auckland

Auckland University of Technology - City Campus Auckland

Eastern Institute of Technology - Hawke Bay Campus Hawke's Bay

Manukau Institute of Technology -Manukau Campus Auckland

Massey University - Auckland Campus Auckland

Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT) - Nelson Campus Southland

New Zealand Institute of Business & Technology (NZIBT) Auckland

The University of Waikato - Hamilton Campus Hamilton

University of Warwick England

De Montfort University England

University of West London England

University of Strathclyde Scotland

Aston University England

University of Bath England

University of Liverpool England

Durham University England

Newcastle University England

Kent state university Ohio

San Jose State University California

Wright State University Ohio

Clark University Massachusetts

Rowan University New Jersey

Arkansas State University Arkansas

University of Wisconsin Milwaukee Wisconsin

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Illinois

University of Findlay Ohio

Popular English Language Proficiency Exams

IELTS Online