A question from a blog reader “I’ve done IELTS 3 times in the last 3 months and get (nearly) the same score every time (Not high enough). What is going on?”
One of the the IELTS examiners that works with us answered this one.
You need to look at IELTS in a different way. IELTS is a level test. This means that is gives you an accurate reading of your writing, speaking, reading and listening. If you do a test like this in June, then again in July, you will find no difference as your level will not change that much in a month. Therefore, your score will be exactly the same. IELTS scores are not a fluke. You read horror stories of people doing IELTS 8 or 9 times but why would anyone do this?
You need to prepare properly and set a realistic goal. For example, if you need Band 7 writing and keep getting Band 6 or 6.5 (This seems to be the most common problem), then you need to work out why you are getting 6/6.5 in writing. There is no point doing the exam again in a month’s time as nothing will have changed. 0.5 is not such a big hurdle for some but if it is grammar that is stopping you from getting Band 7 in writing then you may have a few months of work ahead of you.
So, how do you find out what is stopping you from getting what you need? Only a teacher can tell you the answer. We only use IELTS examiners to work with you on your writing and speaking as they are the only people that can tell you for sure what the problem is. There are a lot of IELTS correction services out there but a lot of people come to us after using them and we are shocked by the feedback they have received. Try an essay with us; you will see the difference.
If you have questions about IELTS then send them to us through the contacts page.
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