This score is a common target for many IELTS test-takers. So is IELTS 7.0 considered high or low? What benefits does it bring? And is it difficult to achieve? Let IDP guide you through everything you need to know.
1. Is IELTS 7.0 a High or Low Score
The IELTS exam assesses four language skills: Listening, Speaking, Reading, and Writing, and is scored from 1.0 to 9.0. The overall band score is the average of the four sections. A 7.0 IELTS score indicates a good level of English.
To achieve IELTS 7.0, your average across all four skills must fall between 6.75 and 7.24.
A person with an IELTS 7.0 can:
Communicate fluently with native speakers
Read English news with ease
Handle complex sentence structures, vocabulary, and grammar
Understand sophisticated arguments, though may occasionally make slight errors
Estimated study time:
Beginners: 2 years or more
From IELTS 5.0 to 7.0: 6 to 12 months, depending on your commitment and study method
Score Comparison Table:
IELTS | TOEIC | TOEFL PBT | CEFR |
|---|---|---|---|
7.0 | 785–830 | 550–587 | C1 |
Note: This table is for reference only. Each test measures different skills and has its own format.
2. What Can You Do With an IELTS 7.0
2.1 Study Abroad Scholarships
Many colleges and universities in the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and the Netherlands require an IELTS score of 6.5 or higher.
IELTS Academic is generally preferred for scholarships and academic study because it focuses on scholarly language.
Examples:
USA: George Mason University requires IELTS 6.5 with scholarships of up to USD 15,000 per year
Australia: University of New South Wales requires IELTS 6.5 (no skill below 5.5) with scholarships ranging from 25% to 50%
Finland: Undergraduate scholarships range from EUR 5,000–12,000 per year; minimum IELTS 6.5 required
2.2 Immigration Opportunities
Many countries view English proficiency as a requirement for immigration.
Asia: Minimum IELTS 4.5–5.5
USA and Europe: Usually require IELTS 5.5–6.5 or higher
With IELTS 7.0, you’re eligible for immigration to many developed countries
Check the official immigration guidelines of your target country for precise requirements.
2.3 International Job Opportunities
Today, both domestic and international companies prefer candidates with strong English skills.
IT firms like FPT require IELTS 4.5–6.0
Legal departments at banks like VPBank, BIDV require IELTS 4.5+; Vietcombank requires IELTS 6.5
Airlines: Ground staff need IELTS 4.5; flight attendants at Vietnam Airlines require 5.5–6.5
Sales and marketing positions at companies like Vingroup, Vietravel prioritize applicants with IELTS 5.0+
For international organizations and high-level roles, IELTS 6.5–7.5 is often required.
2.4 Exemption From High School Graduation English Exam
Vietnam’s Ministry of Education allows students with qualifying English certificates to be exempt from the English graduation exam.
Requirements:
IELTS: 4.0 or higher
TOEFL iBT: 45+
TOEFL ITP: 450+
These students are automatically given a score of 10 in English for graduation purposes (but still need to sit university entrance exams if applicable).
2.5 Direct University Admission in Vietnam
With IELTS 7.0, you can apply directly to top universities:
Vietnam National University (VNU): IELTS 5.5+ accepted for member schools like University of Social Sciences and Humanities, University of Science, VNU International School
Hanoi University of Science and Technology: IELTS 5.0+ eligible for score conversion
Foreign Trade University: IELTS 6.5+ accepted for direct admission
2.6 University English Course Exemption
Most Vietnamese universities require English courses, often worth many credits. With IELTS 7.0, you can be exempt and have it converted into equivalent GPA points (typically 8.5–9.0 on a 10-point scale or 3.5/4.0).
Examples of English exemption requirements:
IELTS 4.5: Hanoi University of Science, University of Social Sciences and Humanities, NEU
IELTS 5.5: Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam, University of Technology
IELTS 6.0: VNU International School, Hanoi University
3. IELTS 7.0 Score Requirements
To achieve an overall IELTS 7.0, each section should roughly meet the following:
Listening: 30–32 correct answers out of 40
Reading:
Academic: 30–32/40
General: 34–35/40
Writing:
Clear and logical argument
Cohesion between paragraphs and ideas
Accurate vocabulary with minimal errors
Speaking:
Naturally fluent with extended responses
Good use of idioms and uncommon vocabulary
Occasional hesitations but with good self-correction
Strong paraphrasing skills
For more details, explore:
Grammar accuracy and variety
Coherence and cohesion
Vocabulary range and precision
4. How to Study for IELTS 7.0
4.1 Know Your Level and Set Goals
Take a placement test on a trusted site like IDP or through a certified center. Set short-term and long-term goals based on your results and test frequently to measure progress.
4.2 Build a Custom Study Plan
Start with the basics: grammar, vocabulary, and core IELTS topics. Then focus on each skill. Before the test, practice mock exams to become familiar with the format.
4.3 Use Smart Time Management
Avoid cramming. Study two skills each day and alternate the rest. Use Sundays to revise and take practice tests. Spend 45 to 105 minutes per skill per day.
4.4 Choose Quality Materials
Use well-known resources like Cambridge IELTS books, Focus on Academic Skills, and IDP’s free study resources including:
IELTS webinars
Practice test sets
Study tips from IELTS experts
5. Frequently Asked Questions About IELTS 7.0
Is IELTS 7.0 difficult?
If you already have a solid English foundation, it's achievable. For beginners, it requires hard work and consistent practice.
How long to go from 0 to 7.0?
6 to 12 months, sometimes up to 18 months depending on your pace.
How long from 5.0 to 7.0?
At least 3 months of focused study.
From 6.0 to 7.0?
About 2 months with the right method.
What CEFR level is IELTS 7.0?
It corresponds to level C1.
What TOEIC score equals IELTS 7.0?
Around 605 to 780 TOEIC.
How many words do I need to know for IELTS 7.0?
Estimates suggest knowing 8000–12000 words.
Achieve IELTS 7.0 With IDP
An IELTS 7.0 certificate is a powerful credential for unlocking scholarships, career growth, and global opportunities. Set your goals clearly, follow a structured plan, and trust reliable resources.
Explore IDP’s free learning resources including webinars, exam tips, and personalized support. When you register for the IELTS test with IDP, our advisors will support you throughout your preparation journey.