What does your IELTS band score mean?

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IELTS Listening band scores

IELTS Reading band scores

IELTS Writing band scores

IELTS Speaking band scores

IELTS Life Skills scores

Why do I score higher in some parts of the test over others?

It is common for people to achieve a different band score for each skill and completely normal to have a difference of up to two bands between skills. This occurs regardless of the language being tested and the type of language test taken. Listening and Speaking are often the strongest skills for most people.

What can I do if I am not happy with my test results?

You can apply for a review of your band scores (called an Enquiry on Results) at your test centre within six weeks of the test date.
You must pay an enquiry fee, which is fully refunded if your band score changes. If your band score changes, you will be issued a new Test Report Form (TRF).

What is the 'pass mark' for the IELTS test?

In the IELTS for UKVI Life Skills test, your results are given as a pass or fail mark.
There is no pass or fail in IELTS Academic or General Training test. 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.

If I use more idioms in my Speaking test, will it increase my Speaking score?

Using idioms in the IELTS Speaking test can be helpful, but be careful because idioms are difficult to use and do not always sound natural. Make sure you are sure how to use them correctly.