Is IELTS 5.5 a Good Score and How to Achieve It in the Shortest Time

IELTS 5.5 is a practical target for those new to IELTS. Learn more about the scoring criteria and what this band can offer.

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:

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.

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)

• 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

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

• 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.