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6 Competent user
Has generally effective command of the language despite inaccuracies,
inappropriacies and misunderstandings. Can use and understand fairly com-
plex language, particularly in familiar situations.
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.
4 Limited user
Basic competence is limited to familiar situations. Has frequent problems in
understanding and expression. Is not able to use complex language.
3 Extremely limited user
Conveys and understands only general meaning in very familiar situations.
Frequent breakdowns in communication occur.
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.
1 Non user
Essentially has no ability to use the language beyond possibly a few isolated
words.
0 Did not attempt the test
No assessable information provided.
What is the pass mark?
There is no fixed pass mark in IELTS. The institution you want to enter will
decide whether your score is appropriate for the demands of the course of study
or training you want to undertake. However, as a general rule, scores below Band
5 in any one skill are considered too low for academic

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9
Introdution
study; scores above Band 6 are deemed to be adequate to good. Overall Band
scores of 5 or 6 are borderline and may not be acceptable at many institutions. If
you are getting only about half of the questions in these sample tests correct, then
you are probably not quite ready to take the IELTS test. Again you should seek
advice from a teacher about your level of English. Remember you must allow a
duration of at least 3 months between each attempt at the test.
For further information about the test, see the IELTS Handbook available from all
test centres and also from UCLES (University of Cambridge Local Examinations
Syndicate), from I DP Education Australia and from British Council Centres.