IELTS 5.5 is a practical target for those new to IELTS. Learn more about the scoring criteria and what this band can offer.
1. Is IELTS 5.5 a High or Low Score?
IELTS 5.5 is a relatively modest score, classified as lower intermediate. It is often the initial goal for candidates after one or two IELTS prep courses. At this level, you can communicate fairly well in everyday situations, but may struggle with academic or technical English.
On average, a complete beginner may need around 10 months to reach IELTS 5.5. If you already have a basic foundation, 6 to 7 months may be enough.
IELTS 5.5 Equivalent Scores:
Certificate | IELTS | TOEIC | TOEFL | VSTEP |
Equivalent | 5.5 | 450–560 | 500 | B2 |
2. What Can You Do With an IELTS 5.5?
Though not as high as 6.5 or above, an IELTS 5.5 still brings several benefits for study, work, and immigration.
Study Abroad Opportunities:
Many universities in countries such as the US, Canada, UK, and Australia accept IELTS 5.5 for certain programs. Examples include:
Canada: King’s University College, University of Manitoba, Simon Fraser University
USA: Ohio University, University of Louisiana, University of Missouri, University of Michigan
UK: University of London, University of Sheffield, University of Warwick, University of Manchester, University of Durham
Australia: RMIT University, Monash University
Switzerland: Glion Institute, Les Roches, Cesar Ritz Colleges, BHMS, IMI University Centre
University Admission in Vietnam:
Several top Vietnamese universities accept IELTS 5.5 for direct admission or as part of their admission criteria:
People's Police Academy
Hanoi University of Culture
National Economics University
Ho Chi Minh City Open University
University of Economics and Law – Vietnam National University HCMC
Vietnam National University, Hanoi
Ho Chi Minh City University of Law
Ho Chi Minh City Banking University
Ton Duc Thang University
University of Technology and Education
Each university may apply different score conversion policies, with IELTS 5.5 often equivalent to 8.0 to 10.0 in local university entrance scores.
English Course Exemptions and Graduation Requirements:
Some universities waive English courses for students with IELTS 5.5:
University of Economics and Finance (UEF): Exempts four initial English courses
National Economics University: Exempts English modules and final exams
Others: University of Technology, Hanoi University of Pharmacy, FPT University, Ton Duc Thang University
Immigration Opportunities:
An IELTS 5.5 is accepted for immigration to countries like Canada, the US, and Singapore. It also enhances job opportunities in both domestic and international markets. At this level, you can handle day-to-day work communication and manage basic professional discussions.
3. IELTS 5.5 Assessment Criteria
Listening:
Minimum 18 correct answers
Correct spelling
Answers within the word/number limit
Reading:
Academic: 19–22/40 correct answers
General: 27–29/40 correct answers
Writing:
Attempts at complex sentence structures but with frequent errors
Logical organization using connectors
Clear explanation in Task 1 and well-supported arguments in Task 2
Speaking:
Able to speak coherently despite some repetition or hesitations
Uses paraphrasing in answers
Moves beyond basic sentence structures
Pronunciation is generally understandable but not strong enough for Band 6
These are the basic criteria required to reach an overall score of 5.5.
Video Bạn có tò mò bài thi IELTS Speaking band 5.5 sẽ như thế nào không? (Phần 1)
4. How to Study Effectively for IELTS 5.5
Set a study timeline: Beginners usually need about 10 months of consistent study to reach IELTS 5.5
Identify weak areas: Focus on grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation as foundational skills
Train by skill: Create a study plan that includes Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking, and combine skills (e.g., Listening with Speaking)
Take practice tests: Use mock exams to track progress and improve weaknesses
Choose a reputable center: IDP is a trusted IELTS co-owner and test provider in Vietnam
5. Recommended IELTS 5.5 Study Materials
Use suitable resources to avoid information overload. Here are some highly recommended materials:
English Vocabulary in Use Pre Intermediate and Intermediate: 100 units covering vocabulary with examples and exercises
Destination B1 Grammar and Vocabulary: Detailed grammar explanations and vocabulary for Speaking and Writing
Complete IELTS Bands 5–6.5: Includes Student’s Book (theory) and Workbook (practice)
Mindset for IELTS 1 and 2: Divides content into vocabulary, grammar, listening, speaking, reading, and writing
Breaking News English: Listening materials with various levels and IELTS score estimations after each audio
6. Common Questions About IELTS 5.5
IELTS 5.5 equals how many TOEIC points? Around 500 TOEIC
How long does it take to reach IELTS 5.5? About 10 months for beginners, 6–7 months with a basic foundation
How long to go from IELTS 5.5 to 6.5? Around 3–4 months
How many words do you need to know for IELTS 5.5? About 5000–7000 words
What CEFR level is IELTS 5.5? Equivalent to B2
An IELTS 5.5 certificate offers valuable advantages for university applications, graduation, job opportunities, and even immigration. With a consistent and structured study plan using reliable resources, you can reach this band within 6–7 months.
Achieve IELTS 5.5 Easily With IDP
To score well, build strong vocabulary and grammar skills to master Reading, Writing, and Listening. Join IDP’s free Masterclass webinars and preparation courses to enhance your understanding.
Access IDP’s free study resource library for expert strategies and speaking improvement tips. Register for the IELTS exam with IDP today. Our team is always ready to support you throughout your preparation journey.