Question 1

What is the difference between raw scores and band scores?

Accepted Answer

The Listening and Reading parts of the IELTS test  are scored out of 40 and then converted  to a  band score which ranges  from  band 1  to  band 9.
The Listening and Reading tests contain 40 questions and each correct question will be awarded 1 mark (so the maximum a test  taker can score here is 40).  Band scores, ranging from band 1 to band 9, are  awarded based on the raw scores.  

Question 2

Why do I score higher in some parts of the test over others?

Accepted Answer

It is common for people to achieve a different band score for each skill and completely normal to have a difference of up to two bands between skills. This occurs regardless of the language being tested and the type of language test taken. Listening and Speaking are often the strongest skills for most people.

Question 3

Why are the topics in the Reading and Writing test so difficult?

Accepted Answer

Every IELTS test is carefully produced and tested to ensure a consistent level of difficulty across all the test versions. We want every IELTS test  taker to have their true English-language ability reflected in their result, which is why we offer so many free and paid tools to help you  practise and prepare.

Check out our preparation  tools for tips and advice so that you can be as prepared as possible for your test date.

Question 4

Can other English language test results count towards my IELTS score?

Accepted Answer

Since IELTS is an individual English-language proficiency test, no other test results will be able to count towards your IELTS score.

Question 5

What can I do if I am not happy with my test results?

Accepted Answer

You can apply for a review of your band scores (called an Enquiry on Results) at your test centre within six weeks of the test date.
You must pay an enquiry fee, which is fully refunded if your band score changes. If your band score changes, you will be issued a new Test Report Form (TRF).

Question 6

What is the 'pass mark' for the IELTS test?

Accepted Answer

In the IELTS Life Skills test, your results are given as a pass or fail mark.
There is no pass or fail in IELTS Academic or General Training test. Scores are graded on the 9-band system. Each educational institution or organisation sets its own level of IELTS scores to meet its individual requirements.

Question 7

If I use more idioms in my Speaking test, will it increase my Speaking score?

Accepted Answer

Using idioms in the IELTS Speaking test can be helpful, but be careful because idioms are difficult to use and do not always sound natural.  Make sure you are sure how to use them correctly.

Question 8

Can I do all parts of the test on the same day?

Accepted Answer

The Listening, Reading, and Writing parts of the test are completed immediately after each other on the same day. In some test centres, you will sit the Speaking test on the same day, or up to 7 days before or after your test date.

If you take IELTS on computer, the Speaking test will be taken on the same day, either before, or after the other three parts of the test.

Question 9

What order will I complete the IELTS test in?

Accepted Answer

If you take IELTS on computer, you will do the tests in the following order on the same day: Listening, Reading and Writing, with the Speaking test before or after this test session.

If you take IELTS on paper, you will do the tests in the following order: Writing, Reading and Listening. Depending on the test centre, the Speaking test can be done on the same day, or up to 7 days either before or after the test date.

Question 10

Can I bring in my own pen and paper into the IELTS test?

Accepted Answer

For both IELTS on paper and IELTS on computer, you will not  be able to bring your own paper into the test for security reasons. If you are sitting  IELTS on computer, we  will provide you with a pencil and paper.  You also receive paper for your Speaking  test to help you organise your thoughts as you speak with the examiner.

Question 11

Why are the topics in the Reading and Writing test so difficult?

Accepted Answer

Every IELTS test is carefully produced and tested to ensure a consistent level of difficulty across all the test versions. We want every IELTS test  taker to have their true English-language ability reflected in their result, which is why we offer so many free and paid tools to help you  practise and prepare.

Check out our preparation  tools for tips and advice so that you can be as prepared as possible for your test date.

Question 12

What is your best strategy for tackling the Reading test?

Accepted Answer

It can depend on the question type, but also think about skimming and scanning.  First, look at the headings, diagrams or glossary to get a quick idea of the article and its general meaning.  Then look at the key words in the questions to help direct you to the right spot in the article.  Also remember that if you know more words, it is easier to read.

Question 13

Can you give us some practical tips to help read quicker and save time during the Reading test?

Accepted Answer

Try skimming and scanning and focus on content words like nouns and verbs.

Question 14

Band 9

Accepted Answer

Skill level
Expert user

Description
Has fully operational command of the language: appropriate, accurate and fluent with complete understanding.

Question 15

Band 8

Accepted Answer

Skill level
Very good user

Description
Has fully operational command of the language with only occasional unsystematic inaccuracies and inappropriacies. Misunderstandings may occur in unfamiliar situations. Handles complex detailed argumentation well.

Question 16

Band 7

Accepted Answer

Skill level
Good user

Description
Has operational command of the language, though with occasional inaccuracies, inappropriacies and misunderstandings in some situations. Generally handles complex language well and understands detailed reasoning.

Question 17

Band 6

Accepted Answer

Skill level
Competent user

Description
Has generally effective command of the language despite some inaccuracies, inappropriacies and misunderstandings.
Can use and understand fairly complex language, particularly in familiar situations.

Question 18

Band 5

Accepted Answer

Skill level
Modest user

Description
Has partial command of the language, coping with overall meaning in most situations, though is likely to make many mistakes. Should be able to handle basic communication in own field.

Question 19

Band 4

Accepted Answer

Skill level
Limited user

Description
Basic competence is limited to familiar situations. Has frequent problems in understanding and expression. Is not able to use complex language.

Question 20

Band 3

Accepted Answer

Skill level
Extremely limited user

Description
Conveys and understands only general meaning in very familiar situations. Frequent breakdowns in communication occur.

Question 21

Band 2

Accepted Answer

Skill level
Intermittent user

Description
No real communication is possible except for the most basic information using isolated words or short formulae in familiar situations and to meet immediate needs. Has great difficulty understanding spoken and written English.

Question 22

Band 1

Accepted Answer

Skill level
Non-user

Description
Essentially has no ability to use the language beyond possibly a few isolated words.

Question 23

Band 0

Accepted Answer

Skill level
Did not attempt test

Description
No assessable information provided.

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