IELTS band scores in detail

Band 9

Expert user

You have fully operational command of the language. Your use of English is appropriate, accurate and fluent, and shows complete understanding

Band 8

Very good user

You have 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 and detailed argumentation well.

Band 7

Good user

You have operational command of the language, though with occasional inaccuracies, inappropriate usage and misunderstandings in some situations. You generally handle complex language well and understand detailed reasoning.

Band 6

Competent user

You have an effective command of the language despite some inaccuracies, inappropriate usage and misunderstandings. You can use and understand fairly complex language, particularly in familiar situations.

Band 5

Modest user

You have a partial command of the language and cope with overall meaning in most situations, although you are likely to make many mistakes. You should be able to handle basic communication in your own field.

Band 4

Limited user

Your basic competence is limited to familiar situations. You frequently show problems in understanding and expression. You are not able to use complex language.

Band 3

Extremely limited user

You convey and understand only general meaning in very familiar situations. There are frequent breakdowns in communication.

Band 2

Intermittent user

You have great difficulty understanding spoken and written English.

Band 1

Non-user

You have no ability to use the language except a few isolated words.

Band 0

Did not attempt the test

You did not answer the questions.