The International English Language Testing System tests English language proficiency and is one of the world’s most popular and respected forms of English in education and migration.
Intended for non-native speakers who are looking to study or work in an English-speaking environment, IELTS training is an internationally recognised system for testing English language ability in four skill categories:
Since its introduction in 1989, IELTS preparation has become one of the most trusted forms of English-language assessment and is accepted by over 8,000 universities, employers and immigration organisations worldwide. IELTS testing methods focus on the candidate’s practical ability to use English in real-life situations. There are two different types of IELTS test:
Once you are graded, your IELTS score is valid for two years.
Students will be given a score of 1-9 for each part of the test. Your average score produces an overall IELTS band score, and you can be graded on whole or half points.
| Score | Skill | Skill Overview |
|---|---|---|
| Band 9 | Expert user | Fully operational command of the language: appropriate, accurate and fluent with complete understanding. |
| Band 8 | Very good user | Fully operational command of the language with only occasional inaccuracies and inappropriacies. Misunderstandings may occur in unfamiliar situations. Handles complex, detailed argumentation well. |
| Band 7 | Good user | Operational command of the language, though with occasional inaccuracies, inappropriacies and misunderstandings in some situations. Generally handles complex language well and understands detailed reasoning. |
| Band 6 | Competent user | Has a generally effective command of the language despite some inaccuracies, inappropriacies, and misunderstandings. He can use and understand fairly complex language, particularly in familiar situations. |
| Band 5 | Modest user | Partial command of the language, coping with overall meaning in most situations, though is likely to make many mistakes. Should be able to handle basic communication in own field. |
| Band 4 | Limited user | Basic competence is limited to familiar situations. Has frequent problems in understanding and expression. Is not able to use complex language. |
| Band 3 | Extremely limited user | Conveys and understands only general meaning in very familiar situations. Frequent breakdowns in communication occur. |
| Band 2 | Intermittent user | No real communication is possible except for the most basic information using isolated words or short formulae to meet immediate needs in familiar situations. Has great difficulty understanding spoken and written English. |
| Band 1 | Non-user | Essentially cannot use the language beyond possibly a few isolated words. |
| Band 0 | Did not attempt the test | No assessable information was provided. Did not take the test. |
Whether you wish to improve your IELTS for the benefit of study, employment or immigration, our flexible learning programmes offer something for everybody.
Dedicated IELTS preparation centres in New Delhi, Bangalore, Mumbai, Chennai, Pune, Coimbatore, Lucknow, Jaipur, Hyderabad and Ahmedabad are the ideal locations for you to prepare for the IELTS exam.
Register for a free consultation today to discuss your English preparation needs with SI-UK India.
I sincerely thank SI-UK for getting me accepted to UCL. The MSc in Urban Development and Planning is extremely competitive, but the right guidance provided by SI-UK made my dream of studying at University College London a reality. The services were exceptional from beginning to end.
Rashmi Lakshanya Urban Development and Planning at University College London
