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. The nine bands of language ability are described in general
terms as follows:
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 languate 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 Extremently 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.