IELTS uses a unique nine-point scoring system to measure and report test scores in a consistent manner – wherever and whenever the test is taken. Understand the 9 point scale better.

Each module is awarded a band score. Each of the sub-test scores is equally weighted. The Overall Band Score is calculated by taking the mean of the total of the four individual sub-test scores. Read about this process.

Scores for the listening and reading papers are calculated by translating the raw score to an IELTS band. Read all about this process.

The speaking and writing papers are marked by certified examiners who are monitored on a regular basis to ensure that they are accurately applying the IELTS assessment criteria.

View a public version of the assessment for Writing Task 1, for Writing Task 2 and for Speaking. You can use these public versions of the assessment criteria to evaluate your candidates and give them accurate feedback on their strengths and weaknesses.

Following extensive consultation with receiving organisations, IELTS extended whole and half band score reporting to the Writing and Speaking modules from July 1 2007. This means the Test Report Forms may show scores in increments of 0.5.

For test takers, their Test Report Form will give them a much more exact understanding of their language skills. Because all of the parts of the test will be reported in the same way, it will also be easier to understand.

The actual method of examiner assessment is exactly the same as before.

As most candidates take IELTS in order to emigrate or study overseas, they need to achieve a specific score in IELTS which is set by the receiving country or institution. Knowing your candidate’s approximate level is essential. This information can help you decide if a candidate needs a preparation course, how long that course should be and when he or she should take the exam.

Alternatively, you could use the Common European Framework to help you establish your candidate’s level of English. Read the answer to the following question to find out more about this useful tool.

			Test users frequently ask how IELTS scores ‘compare’ with scores from other examinations and they also want to know how IELTS ‘maps’ onto the Common European Framework. If you know what CEF level a candidate is, you will have a good idea of what band score they should be capable of getting in the exam. See how IELTS maps onto the CEF.
			You can use the global level descriptor document and the self-assessment grid to evaluate approximately a candidate’s CEF level.
			Once you have established your candidate’s CEF level, you can use this grid to help you decide how many guided (face to face) learning hours this candidate will need to move up to the required IELTS band. This is only to be used as a guideline as the learning speeds of individuals can vary depending upon a number of different factors.

Source: CEF and Cambridge ESOL recommended guidelines

The British Council’s website has a quick diagnostic test available for free which can give you an indication of your candidate’s ability.

Alternatively, you can take the Business Language Testing Service (BULATS) which assesses your language skills.