How is the overall IELTS band score calculated?

The IELTS test tests the English language skills of individuals and such is measured against band scores. The band scores of IELTS range from band 0 to band 9 and each of these band scores correspond to a certain level of English language competence. For instance, a band score of 6 represents the score of a competent English language user who corresponds to the effective usage of English. But it also means that there are inaccuracies and small mistakes. A 6 also represents a fairly complex understanding of the language and its uses. This is truer for situations that are familiar.

Read this article if you are planning to take the IELTS Singapore or any other.

If you are writing the IELTS, you will earn a band score for each part of a test and also an overall band score. The overall band score of IELTS is the average of the band scores you have earned in subjects like -- reading, writing, speaking, listening. Band scores of individuals are provided as either whole scores or half band scores, which are then rounded up to the number which is nearest to either the half band score or the whole band score.

For instance, if a student scores a 5 in Reading, 6.5 in Writing, 6.5 in Speaking, and 6.5 in Listening-- then the average of the 4 scores will be the overall band score, which is 6.25. This score will be rounded up to a 6.5 as the overall band score.

Every individual taking the IELTS will be given a score that ranges from 1 to 9 for every part of the test that includes - writing, reading, listening, and speaking. Individuals can score in whole numbers like 4.0, 5.0, 7.0., or half bands like 4.5, 5.5, 7.5 in each of the parts of the test.

What is the test format of IELTS?

The IELTS stands for International English Language Testing System, a standard international standard for measuring competency in the English language, divided into different parts. It has 4 papers- reading, writing, listening and speaking. The speaking and listening are the same in both the modules. The reading and writing tests however are significantly different.

Who should take the IELTS exam?

Choose to take the IELTS if you aspire to study in an English-speaking country at undergraduate or postgraduate levels, or if you are looking forward to seeking professional registration to work. It is also great for those who plan to migrate to a country that is or predominantly English-speaking.