IELTS Band Scores

I just realized that suddenly a lot of my friends are taking IELTS.
Reasons might be different, but now they kind of getting annoyed with the fact that some of us have to retake the test again and again before they can pass.
This is because of the new rules from immigration.
Since most of us are graduating real soon, and some did from last semester, we need to take IELTS in order for us to get our PR application processed.

And guess whats the score that we need?
7 it is, with no band below 7 and overall band 7.
Quite though is it?
Indeed for most of us, yes! Even 6 is not that easy either I found out.
It is ironic since we've lived here in Australia for more than 3years at least, and yet band score 7 is a "good user" (based on the band scores expectation description).
I feel so lucky for passing the IELTS already, but just to inform, I pass that requirement on my 2nd test (*damn it). Still not bad compare to those who need to do it over timesSS.

Well, this is what I got from the official IELTS website. Hope it might help.

There is no pass or fail in IELTS. Candidates are graded on their performance, using scores from 1 to 9 for each part of the test – Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking. The results from the four parts then produce an Overall Band Score.

This unique 9-band system measures scores in a consistent manner – wherever and whenever the test is taken. It is internationally recognised and understood, giving you a reliable international currency. IELTS scores are valid for two years.

The IELTS 9-band scale

Each band corresponds to a level of English competence. All parts of the test and the Overall Band Score can be reported in whole and half bands, eg 6.5, 7.0, 7.5, 8.0.

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

Band 8: Very good user: has fully operational command of the language with only occasional unsystematic inaccuracies and inappropriacies. Misunderstandings may occur in unfamiliar situations. Handles complex detailed argumentation well.

Band 7: Good user: has 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 generally effective command of the language despite some inaccuracies, inappropriacies and misunderstandings. Can use and understand fairly complex language, particularly in familiar situations.

Band 5: Modest user: has 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 in familiar situations and to meet immediate needs. Has great difficulty understanding spoken and written English.

Band 1: Non-user: essentially has no ability to use the language beyond possibly a few isolated words.

Band 0: Did not attempt the test: No assessable information provided.

gluck to my dearest friends~

xx