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Episode 2: How IELTS is Scored

Welcome to IELTS Prepare by IDP, your trusted guide for test day success, hosted by IELTS Expert Rocco Nigro.

In this episode, Rocco is joined by IELTS Expert, Rose Aravanis who will take us through the IELTS band score scale and how each part of the test is assessed.

Learn about the IELTS band descriptors and how they can help you prepare better for test day.  

And if you’re aiming to improve your band score, don’t miss the second half of this episode where Rose shares valuable insights on how to move from a band 6 to 7 in IELTS Writing and Speaking. 

Rose has been involved in IELTS for over 20 years. She is also a teacher, a teacher trainer, a materials writer and a published author. 

This episode covers: 

IELTS band scores 

  • When you take your test, you’ll be awarded a band score ranging from band 1 (lowest) to band 9 (highest).

  • Learn about IELTS scoring for each section of the test and how long your results are valid for. 

Using the IELTS band descriptors to improve your score 

  • The IELTS band descriptors are the different criteria that examiners use to assess your Writing and Speaking.

  • Find out what is required in these sections of the test, so you know what areas to work on during your IELTS preparation.   

  • You can also learn more in our short video series How your IELTS Writing test is marked

How to achieve a band 7 in Writing and Speaking  

  • Get practical tips on what to do before and during your test to reach a band 7 in IELTS Writing and Speaking.  

Test taker questions 

  • “Are we assessed differently on the IELTS on computer test compared to the IELTS on paper?” 

  • Get the answers to your questions on IELTS scoring.  

Watch the episode now on the IELTS by IDP app, YouTube, Spotify or wherever you listen to your podcasts.

Access the other IELTS Prepare by IDP vodcast episodes