This exam tests your ability to use English. Score in each of the subtests and an overall (average) score is recorded as levels of ability, called Bands. Highest: 9 bands for each of the four language macro skills - Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking. The above information is listed on the Test Report Form. Universities typically require a band score of between 6 and 7. However, level depends on the academic institution in which you wish to study and the type of course you will be taking. IELTS is also a mandatory requirement for students of many nationalities to get student visas to Australia (TOEFL exam is not accepted). An IELTS score must be included at the time of application for the student visa. Tests older than 2 years are not acceptable.

The bands of IELTS are as follows:

Band 0: Did not attempt the test
No assessable information provided. Candidate may fail to sit for test

Band 1: Non User
Essentially candidate has no ability to use the language beyond possibly a few isolated words.

Band 2: Intermittent User
No real communication is possible except for the most basic information using isolated words or short formulae in familiar situations and to meet immediate needs. Candidate has great difficulty understanding spoken and written English.

Band 3: Extremely Limited User
Candidate can conveys and understands only general meaning in very familiar situations. Frequent breakdowns in communication occur.

Band 4: Limited User
Candidate has basic competence is limited to familiar situations and has frequent problems in understanding and expression. Candidate is not able to use complex language.

Band 5: Modest User
Candidate has partial command of the language, coping with overall meaning in most situations, though is likely to make many mistakes. They should be able to handle basic communication in own field.

Band 6: Competent User
Candidate has generally effective command of the language despite some inaccuracies, inappropriateness and misunderstandings. They Can use and understand fairly complex language, particularly in familiar situations.

Band 7: Good User
Candidate has operational command of the language, though with occasional inaccuracies, inappropriateness and misunderstandings in some situations. Generally handles complex language well and understands detailed reasoning.

Band 8: Very Good User
Candidate has fully operational command of the language with only occasional unsystematic inaccuracies and inappropriate. Misunderstandings may occur in unfamiliar situations. User can handle complex detailed argumentation well.

Band 9: Expert User
Candidate has fully operational command of the language: appropriate, accurate and fluent with complete understanding.