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How Legit are IELTS Examiners?
Find out what it takes to become an IELTS examiner and how they score your Speaking and Writing tests.
You may have wondered: Who exactly are these IELTS examiners and what does it take to become one?
This is especially so since IELTS is a high-stakes test that could determine one’s future – recognised by more than 10,000 universities and employers in countries like Australia, Canada, New Zealand and the United Kingdom, as well as professional bodies, immigration authorities and other government agencies.
In fact, there are specific qualifications and training that are required for one to become a certified IELTS Writing and Speaking examiner. This includes:
An undergraduate degree in a related field
A recognized qualification in English language teaching, such as TESOL/TESL/TOEFL
At least three-year’s full time (or the equivalent of part time) relevant English-language teaching experience, with the majority spent teaching adults
The stringent requirements do not end there, as standardised training sessions are conducted for aspiring IELTS examiners. This training is held by an experienced IELTS examiner trainer, assessing whether individuals are able to accurately mark and score IELTS Speaking and Writing tests based on specific criteria.
Once the examiners are certified, they are monitored regularly with regards to their consistency and accuracy in marking Speaking and Writing tests. They also have to be re-certified every two years.
IELTS examiners hold very high standards when it comes to maintaining the integrity of the test, as well as keeping confidentiality and security in all aspects of IELTS, whether it’s on test day or during the process of marking.
How are the scores given?
In order to properly evaluate and mark the tests, IELTS examiners use band scores and band descriptorsb – aspects that they will be extremely familiar with due to the extensive training they have gone through.
All Academic and General Training IELTS tests are scored using a band scale from 1 (a non-user) to 9 (an expert user). Test takers are also given a band score from 1 to 9 for Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking tests.
Additionally, test takers can be scored whole scores (4.0, 5.0, etc.) or half scores (4.5, 5.5, etc.). The average of the scores for each part of the test will form the test taker’s overall band score.
It will be useful for test takers to understand more about the IELTS test, specifically the format and the type of questions you may be asked. For those who are attempting the computer-delivered IELTS format, there are familiarisation tests to help you know what to expect.
If you’re ready, it’s just a matter of booking your test session today!