Is there a particular score you need to pass or fail the IELTS test?
The simple answer is: No. There is no pass or fail in an IELTS test.
Your test results provide a profile of your ability to use English.
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.
Hear more from our IELTS Experts: Rose Aravanis and Rocco Nigro. You can also learn about how the IELTS test is scored by understanding the IELTS Band Descriptors.
IELTS Experts discuss the question: "Is there a pass or fail in the IELTS test?"
Our video podcast host Rocco Nigro is joined by Rose Aravanis. Rose has been involved in IELTS for over 20 years. She’s an IELTS expert, a teacher, a teacher trainer, a materials writer and a published author.
How your english skills are assessed
The nine-band scoring system
IELTS uses a nine-band scoring system to measure your test results. You will receive individual scores for each of the four skills in Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking, and an overall band score on a scale of 0 (the lowest) to 9 (the highest).
Marking performance fairly
Examiners do not see any of your personal details (including any previous scores if you have sat the test before), which ensures that they mark your performance anonymously and fairly. Different examiners also mark different sections of your test.
Assessed by highly qualified examiners
Your test results are assessed by examiners who are highly qualified and experienced English language professionals. They work to clearly defined criteria and are subject to extensive and detailed quality control procedures.
Global assessment criteria
Your IELTS test is marked with the same assessment criteria used all over the world. You are no more likely to receive a higher band score in one country than another.
Learn more about IELTS band scores.
Want to hear more from our IELTS Experts?
Tune in to the full episode 2 of our IELTS video podcast and find out how your test is marked and how you can improve your IELTS score.
The IELTS Prepare by IDP Vodcast, or video podcast, covers everything you need to know about the test.
During this 10-part series, you’ll learn about the IELTS test structure, how to prepare, what to expect on test day and more.
Each episode includes an interview with a different IELTS expert, who answers test taker questions and provides valuable advice on how to approach the test.