Learn strategies to achieve a high IELTS band score. Tips on improving skills in Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking for optimal test performance.
Understand your IELTS Score
IELTS Results are calculated on a Band scale of 9.
The scores are represented on a scale from 1 (lowest) to 9 (highest).
How to Get Band 7
Majority of the universities ask for an overall score of Band 7 in IELTS Academic for admissions. For General Training, an overall score of band 7 would help you get more than the required points for immigration.
Let us help you understand what Band 7 means. As per IELTS, it means you are a GOOD USER . You have an operational command of the language, though with occasional inaccuracies, inappropriate usage and misunderstandings in some situations. Generally you handle complex language well and understand detailed reasoning.
Putting this into perspective, in Writing Task 1, you have given the overview (Acad) or explained the purpose in right tone (GT), but more could be done; information is clearly presented in a logical manner; have sufficient range of vocabulary and create a variety of sentences but make a few mistakes here and there.
In Writing Task 2, you present the essay well but over-generalise or lack focus. There is a logical flow in your writing; sufficient range of vocabulary, variety of sentences but makes occasional errors or spelling mistakes.
In Speaking, you can speak at length with some self-correction/hesitation and grammatical mistakes; you have good vocabulary and use some idioms too;
How to Get Band 8
VERY GOOD USER. You have a fully operational command of the language with only occasional unsystematic inaccuracies and inappropriate usage. You may misunderstand some things in unfamiliar situations. You handle complex detailed argumentation well.
Band 8 requires little more hard work and focus. Remember that the most students lose marks in Writing Tasks 1 and 2. In Reading and Listening, you can get full marks if you have written all 40 questions correctly – which is possible! Writing Tasks 1 & 2, however, require more than just “correct” writing.
There are some key words and phrases which the examiners look for. There is some specific vocabulary that is requires to get a Band 8. The presentation, structure and content has to conform to a particular set of requirements.
How to Get Band 9
EXPERT USER. You have a full operational command of the language. Your use of English is appropriate, accurate and fluent, and you show complete understanding.
9 is NOT IMPOSSIBLE! Students have got and 9 or Band 8.5 in Academic and General Training. Difficult, yes. But that can be dealt with. You may have to put in intense work and show persistence.
