In your path to study abroad, IELTS is a crucial stepping stone. It is a standard test which is globally accepted and checks an individual’s English language skills. However, calculating the details of the IELTS band score can be overwhelming the first time. You can feel as if you are trying to decode a secret code of which you have no prior knowledge. This is where a tool like the IELTS band score calculator comes into play.
Have you ever wondered how many questions students need to get right for a Band 7 in Speaking? Or ‘What does a 5.5 in Writing mean’? If yes then do not worry, you are not alone.
This article will solve all such doubts and show you how an IELTS score calculator can be your best friend to estimate your scores.
What is The IELTS Band Score System?
Before you dive into the IELTS band score calculator, let’s briefly look at the score system used in this exam.
This English language test uses a 9-band scale to score the four sections of the test: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. This band scale ranges from band 1 signifying a non-user to band 9, indicating an expert user.
The test takers get an individual band score for each of the four models in addition to the total score. Moreover, the overall IELTS band score is the average of the four individual scores in the following models:
- Listening, which assesses your ability to know spoken English.
- Reading, which seeks clear comprehension of written passages in the language.
- Writing, that measures your writing skills with a focus on grammar and coherence.
- And Speaking, which tests your spoken English fluency, grammar, vocabulary, and clear pronouncement.
IELTS Scoring
Following is what the band scores of the IELTS test signify about the test taker:
Band 0: The individual is a non-user or did not attempt the test
Band 1: The test taker is a non-user and cannot use English beyond a few words
Band 2: The individual knows only short phrases or limited words
Band 3: The user can convey only the general meaning of familiar surroundings
Band 4: It signifies a user has problems with expression and is not able to use complex English.
Band 5: A user with partial command of the language. Moreover, they can handle basic conversations in their field.
Band 6: The test taker is a capable user of the language and has a generally effective command of English. Further, it means they have some knowledge of complex language structures.
Band 7: A good user with a few inaccuracies. The test taker can handle complex language well.
Band 8: A very good user of English with a fully operational command of the language. Moreover, it means that the individual can handle complex arguments well with limited inaccuracy.
Band 9: The individual is an expert user of the language with full command and fluency.
About the IELTS Band Calculator
The IELTS band score calculator is a simple and useful tool that helps to know their potential band scores. It gives an individual an approximate of their real scores on the test as per their mock scores. Moreover, it can also help one know how many questions to get right in the real exam to get their dream band.
Here is what it usually does:
Listening and Reading
Both these sections consist of 40 questions each for an individual to answer. The calculator can translate your raw scores of IELTS practice test listening and reading into a band score. Also, this is especially helpful as these models are the hardest to crack as an IELTS test taker.
Writing and Speaking
While these models are assessed subjectively, some of the calculators offer rubrics for their assessment. They help the test taker know what the checker is looking for at each of the band levels. Hence, to get to your desired IELTS band score with ease this is especially helpful for you. Moreover, they may also sometimes have examples for each band level. These can be used to better your answers in the exam.
Total Band Score
Moreover, it adds the total band score as per the individual section score, giving you an idea of your performance.
Why Use an IELTS Band Score Calculator?
- Tracks your progress: A constant use of the calculator allows you to track your progress and check your strengths and weaknesses.
- Helps set realistic goals: Knowing the score needed for your goal band helps you set goals that you can achieve easily. Moreover, you can also make a study plan as per these updated goals and work towards them.
- Knowing the scoring system: The IELTS band score calculator also gives you a clear picture of how your hard work excels in band scores.
- Practicing with purpose: With up-to-date info on the scoring system, you can now practice with purpose for your test.
- Helps with test anxiety: Furthermore, with a better knowledge of the scoring system, you can also manage your test anxiety better.
Conclusion
Hence, the IELTS band calculator is an effective tool that can significantly help your test prep. Whether you take the IELTS practice test listening, reading, writing, or speaking, you can use it to know your strengths. By knowing how it works, you can use it effectively and gain insights into your progress and reach your goal.