While preparing for the IELTS test, it is really important to look at the band scores suggested by the British Council where the scores is divided into 9 bands, 0 being the lowest band score and 9 being the highest band score.
Reference: ielts.org
Band Score 9 – Expert
- The test taker has fully operational command of the language.
- Their use of English is appropriate, accurate and fluent, and shows complete understanding.
Band Score 8 – Very Good
- The test taker has fully operational command of the language with only occasional unsystematic inaccuracies and inappropriate usage.
- They may misunderstand some things in unfamiliar situations. They handle complex and detailed argumentation well.
Band Score 7 – Good
- The test taker has operational command of the language, though with occasional inaccuracies, inappropriate usage and misunderstandings in some situations.
- They generally handle complex language well and understand detailed reasoning.
Band Score 6 – Competent
- The test taker has an effective command of the language despite some inaccuracies, inappropriate usage and misunderstandings.
- They can use and understand reasonably complex language, particularly in familiar situations.
Band Score 5 – Modest
- The test taker has a partial command of the language and copes with overall meaning in most situations, although they are likely to make many mistakes.
- They should be able to handle basic communication in their own field.
Band Score 4 – Limited
- The test taker’s basic competence is limited to familiar situations.
- They frequently show problems in understanding and expression.
Band Score 3 – Extremely Limited
- The test taker conveys and understands only general meaning in very familiar situations.
- There are frequent breakdowns in communication.
Band Score 2 – Intermittent
The test taker has great difficulty understanding spoken and written English.
Band Score 1 – Non-user
The test taker has no ability to use the language except a few isolated words.
Band Score 0 – Did not attempt the test
The test taker did not answer the questions.
