Understanding your reading marks in IELTS is essential if you’re preparing for the IELTS exam in Bangladesh. The IELTS Reading test measures how well you can understand written English, analyze information, and identify key ideas. Your reading band score is calculated based on the number of correct answers out of 40 questions. However, the scoring system differs slightly between IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training modules.
Each correct answer earns one mark, which is converted into a band score from 0 to 9. For example, 30 correct answers in IELTS Academic often equal a band score of 7.0, while in General Training, the same number might give you a 6.5.
Whether you’re aiming for university admission or immigration, understanding how reading marks work will help you plan better and achieve your target band. Let’s explore the full IELTS reading marks chart, scoring process, and practical tips to boost your score effectively!
IELTS Reading Marks Distribution Explained
The IELTS Reading test has 40 questions and lasts 60 minutes. Each question carries one mark, and there are no negative marks for wrong answers. The marks you earn are converted into a band score (0–9) using a standardized IELTS conversion table.
There are two types of IELTS Reading tests:
- IELTS Academic Reading (for students applying to universities)
- IELTS General Training Reading (for work, migration, or vocational studies)
The difficulty level and scoring slightly differ between these two. Academic reading passages are more complex, so the band score thresholds are lower for the same number of correct answers compared to General Training.
IELTS Academic Reading Marks to Band Score Conversion
| Correct Answers | Band Score |
| 39–40 | 9.0 |
| 37–38 | 8.5 |
| 35–36 | 8.0 |
| 33–34 | 7.5 |
| 30–32 | 7.0 |
| 27–29 | 6.5 |
| 23–26 | 6.0 |
| 19–22 | 5.5 |
| 15–18 | 5.0 |
| 12–14 | 4.5 |
| 9–11 | 4.0 |
| 6–8 | 3.5 |
| 4–5 | 3.0 |
| 3 | 2.5 |
IELTS General Training Reading Marks to Band Score Conversion
| Correct Answers | Band Score |
| 40 | 9.0 |
| 39 | 8.5 |
| 37–38 | 8.0 |
| 36 | 7.5 |
| 34–35 | 7.0 |
| 32–33 | 6.5 |
| 30–31 | 6.0 |
| 27–29 | 5.5 |
| 23–26 | 5.0 |
| 19–22 | 4.5 |
| 15–18 | 4.0 |
| 12–14 | 3.5 |
How IELTS Reading Is Scored
The IELTS Reading score is purely based on the number of correct answers — no marks are deducted for wrong ones. The reading section tests:
- Skimming and scanning skills
- Identifying key information
- Understanding logical arguments
- Recognizing writer’s opinions and purpose
Your final Reading Band Score appears on your Test Report Form (TRF), combined with Listening, Writing, and Speaking scores to produce your Overall Band Score.
Tips to Improve Your IELTS Reading Marks
Improving your reading marks in IELTS requires strategy, time management, and smart practice. Here’s how you can boost your performance:
- Practice scanning and skimming techniques
- Manage your time wisely (20 minutes per passage)
- Focus on common question types
- Expand vocabulary daily
- Avoid overthinking answers
- Practice with official IELTS materials
- Review mistakes regularly
Common Mistakes That Lower Reading Marks
Even good readers lose marks due to small mistakes:
- Not transferring answers correctly
- Spending too much time on one question
- Ignoring plural/singular forms
- Misreading question instructions
- Poor handwriting or unclear spelling
How to Check Your IELTS Reading Marks Online
After the exam, you can check your IELTS Reading marks online through your test center’s official website or the British Council/IDP portal. Use your Candidate Number and ID details to view your Test Report Form (TRF), usually available within 13 days of your test date.
FAQs About IELTS Reading Marks
What is the total mark for IELTS Reading?
The IELTS Reading test has 40 marks in total, with each question worth one mark.
How many marks are needed for Band 7 in IELTS Reading?
In IELTS Academic, you need 30–32 correct answers for Band 7. In General Training, you need 34–35 correct answers.
How long is the IELTS Reading test?
The test lasts 60 minutes, including three reading passages and 40 questions.
Is IELTS Reading harder than Listening?
Many students in Bangladesh find Reading slightly harder due to complex vocabulary and tricky question types.
How can I improve my IELTS Reading score quickly?
Practice with official IELTS materials, improve your vocabulary, and master scanning and skimming techniques.
Final Thoughts
Your reading marks in IELTS reflect how well you can understand English texts and manage time under pressure. By following the strategies shared above and practicing regularly, you can easily reach your desired band score.
If you’re in Bangladesh and want professional IELTS guidance, join Banglay IELTS & Immigration Center (BIIC) — your trusted partner for IELTS success. Improve your reading, writing, listening, and speaking with expert trainers who know what works!
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