IELTS band score calculator: Your IELTS overall band is the average of your four section scores, rounded to the nearest half band. An average of 6.75 becomes 7.0, and 6.625 becomes 6.5.
Universities and scholarships often ask for a minimum overall IELTS band. Knowing how the overall score is rounded helps you plan which skill to improve.
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How the overall band is worked out
- Add your Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking bands.
- Divide the total by 4 to get the average.
- Round to the nearest half band, using the rule below.
The rounding rule
| Average ends in .125 or lower | Rounded down to the whole band (6.125 becomes 6.0) |
|---|---|
| Average ends in .25 or .375 | Rounded up to the half band (6.25 becomes 6.5) |
| Average ends in .625 | Rounded down to the half band (6.625 becomes 6.5) |
| Average ends in .75 or .875 | Rounded up to the next whole band (6.75 becomes 7.0) |
Skip the maths with our free IELTS band score calculator.
Worked examples
- 6.5, 6.5, 6.5, 7.0 → average 6.625 → overall 6.5
- 6.5, 6.5, 7.0, 7.0 → average 6.75 → overall 7.0
- 5.0, 6.0, 6.0, 6.0 → average 5.75 → overall 6.0
Do not forget the minimum per skill
Many universities and scholarships set a minimum overall band and a minimum for each skill, such as 6.0 in Writing. Read both rules. The calculator shows only the overall band.
How to raise your score
- Find your weakest skill and spend most of your time there.
- Practise Writing with timed tasks and get feedback.
- Do full mock tests to build stamina.
- Check each programme’s required score before you book the exam.
Not sure which scholarships need IELTS? Read our guide on scholarships and English tests.
IELTS band score calculator: frequently asked questions
Is the rule the same for Academic and General Training?
Yes. The overall band is calculated the same way.
How long is an IELTS result valid?
Institutions commonly accept results for two years, but each one sets its own rule.
Is the calculator official?
No. It applies the published rounding rule, but only your official test report counts.
