Official IELTS Band Score Calculator (2026 Rules)
Calculate your overall IELTS band from the four section scores (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking). The calculator applies the official IELTS rounding rule — the average is rounded to the nearest half band (0.25 rounds up, 0.75 rounds up).
IELTS Overall Band Calculator
Enter each section score (0–9, in 0.5 steps)
How is the IELTS overall band calculated?
Your overall band score is calculated by taking the average of the four component scores (Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking). The average is then rounded to the nearest half or whole band according to the official rule:
- The 0.25 Rule: If the average ends in .25, it rounds UP to the next half band (e.g., 6.25 becomes 6.5).
- The 0.75 Rule: If the average ends in .75, it rounds UP to the next whole band (e.g., 6.75 becomes 7.0).
- Other averages round to the nearest 0.5
IELTS band score for Canada PR
For Canada Express Entry, the minimum is CLB 7 in all four skills — that's IELTS L 6.0 / R 6.0 / W 6.0 / S 6.0. For maximum CRS points, aim for CLB 9 (L 8.0 / R 7.0 / W 7.0 / S 7.0). Use our IELTS to CLB calculator to convert.
IELTS band requirements (typical)
| Purpose | Typical IELTS |
|---|---|
| UK student visa (degree) | 6.0–6.5 |
| Australia PR (skilled) | 6.0–7.0 |
| Canada Express Entry (max CRS) | 7.0+ (CLB 9) |
| US universities (Master's) | 6.5–7.5 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How is the IELTS overall band calculated?
The overall band is the average of the four section scores, rounded to the nearest 0.5 band. An average of 6.25 rounds to 6.5, and 6.75 rounds to 7.0.
What is a good IELTS band score for Canada PR?
For Express Entry, CLB 9 (IELTS L 8.0 / R 7.0 / W 7.0 / S 7.0) maximizes your CRS points. CLB 7 is the minimum to qualify under Federal Skilled Worker.
Is IELTS Academic or General used for immigration?
Canada, Australia and the UK accept IELTS General Training for immigration. IELTS Academic is required for most university admissions.