What is the hardest part of the IELTS reading exam?

The hardest part of the IELTS Reading exam is often Section 3, due to complex academic language, longer texts, and tricky question types like "True/False/Not Given" or matching headings, all under intense time pressure that demands fast skimming, scanning, and deep critical thinking beyond surface-level comprehension. Time management, vocabulary, and the ability to infer meaning and author's tone are major challenges for many test-takers.

Which is the toughest part of IELTS?

The Writing section is often regarded as the most challenging part of the IELTS exam, according to numerous surveys. Here's why: Writing scores can be unpredictable, making it harder to gauge performance. It demands a strong command of grammar, vocabulary, structure, and coherence.

How difficult is IELTS reading?

The sheer amount of reading within the time limits make the Reading section of the IELTS quite hard. If you're good at skimming and scanning, you'll find this section less hard. If you have an expansive vocabulary, you'll likely find this section relatively easy (especially for Academic).

Is it easy to get 7 in IELTS reading?

From statistics published by ielts.com, it is clear that many test takers will end up in the 6.0 -6.5 overall band score bracket. For those aiming to study, 41% fall into this category. For General Training, the percentage falls to 31 % with a corresponding rise in those obtaining at least a 7.0 (26% of the total).

Is 6.75 rounded to 7 in IELTS?

Overall listening, reading, writing and speaking scores are rounded up to the nearest . 5. So, if your average overall raw score is 6.75, this will be rounded up to a 7.

IELTS Reading 2026 EXPLAINED (What’s Changing)

Is IELTS 7.0 B2 or C1?

An IELTS score of 7.0 is firmly in the C1 (Advanced) level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), signifying a "Good User" who can handle complex English for academic and professional purposes, while B2 is a lower, "Competent User" level (around IELTS 5.5-6.5). 

Are there tricks to improve IELTS reading?

Start reading in groups of 3 - 5 words or chunking

To train yourself, try to read three to five words at a time and check if you understand the meaning of the sentence or phrase once you are done. Keep practicing on this with three words first and gradually work up to five words using your peripheral vision.

Is 7.25 rounded to 7.5 in IELTS?

The IELTS band score scale ranges from 0 to 9 and each band represents a specific level of English proficiency. Remember that your overall score will be rounded to the nearest half or whole band. For example, if you scored 6.75, it will be rounded up to 7 and if you scored 7.25, it will be rounded up to 7.5.

Is 6.25 means 6.5 in IELTS?

If your overall score is an average of 6.25, your score will be increased to 6.5. The score 6.25 is actually precisely between band 6 and 6.5, so in this case IELTS will push it up to the nearest score which is 6.5. If your overall score is an average of 6.75, your score will be increased to 7.

How do I improve my reading skills?

Below are some active reading strategies to use before you read.

1. Know your purpose. ...
2. Integrate prior knowledge. ...
3. Preview the text. ...
4. Plan to break your reading into manageable chunks. ...
5. Decide whether and how to read from a screen. ...
6. Self-monitor. ...
7. Annotate. ...
8. Summarize.

Is getting 8.5 in IELTS easy?

Reaching an 8.5 IELTS score is undeniably difficult. It requires advanced knowledge, a deep understanding of the exam format, and effective test-taking strategies. According to IELTS scoring, to reach an overall band score of 8.5, the average of your four skills must be between 8.25 and 8.5.

Is getting 6.5 IELTS easy?

The difficulty of achieving IELTS 6.5 depends on factors such as your current level, time investment, learning methods, and focus. With consistent study and a clear plan, achieving a 6.5 is possible for many learners.

What are the new rules for IELTS exam 2025?

As per the latest IELTS new rules 2025, test takers must use a black ball pen for paper-based tests, effective from 22 February 2025. There has been some changes in listening section of IELTS exam 2025. This IELTS exam section will now include AI-driven adaptive questions that are tailored to the candidate's responses.

Which is the easiest section in IELTS?

Prepare for the IELTS Exam- Listening Section!

The listening section in an IELTS exam is considered the easiest section if practiced correctly. There are a lot of intricacies to consider before you even start listening to audio and answering the questions.

What are some common IELTS reading mistakes?

Some Common Mistakes are:

• Reading Too Slowly. ...
• Ignoring Instructions. ...
• Overlooking Keywords. ...
• Guessing Without Evidence. ...
• Getting Stuck on Difficult Questions. ...
• Not Managing Your Time. ...
• Neglecting Vocabulary Development. ...
• Misinterpreting True/False/Not Given Questions.

How to get 5.5 in IELTS reading?

Tips to Improve Your IELTS Reading Band Score

1. Practice skimming and scanning – quickly identify keywords and main ideas.
2. Focus on time management – spend no more than 20 minutes per passage.
3. Review question types – headings, True/False/Not Given, matching, etc.

Can I repeat IELTS reading only?

You can retake any one component of the IELTS test, whether it's Listening, Reading, Writing, or Speaking.

Is IELTS 9.0 possible?

Scoring 9.0 in IELTS is both a challenge and a dream for many test takers. In reality, with enough dedication and the right study plan, this top score is within reach. To achieve a perfect 9.0 score, you must study diligently, understand effective techniques, and apply all skills accurately in the exam.

Is IELTS easier than TOEFL?

Neither TOEFL nor IELTS is universally "easier"; it depends on your strengths, as TOEFL suits those comfortable with American English and computer-based tests with multiple-choice questions, while IELTS favors those who prefer varied question types and a direct, face-to-face speaking interview. TOEFL is highly academic and computer-based, with a potentially challenging recorded speaking section, whereas IELTS offers paper/computer options, a broader range of accents in listening, and a real conversation for speaking, making it feel more natural to some. 

Who owns IELTS?

Jointly owned by the British Council, IDP IELTS, and Cambridge University Press & Assessment – our combined global presence and commitment to research makes us ideal providers of international English testing.

Is 6.625 rounded to 7 in IELTS?

This average is rounded to the nearest 0.5 or whole number. For example, if your section scores are 6.5 (Listening), 7.0 (Reading), 6.0 (Writing), and 7.0 (Speaking), your total comes to (6.5 + 7.0 + 6.0 + 7.0) ÷ 4 = 6.625, which is rounded up to Band 6.5.

Is IELTS 9 a C2?

The CEFR defines six levels of ability from the basic level A1, through to the very advanced level C2 which corresponds approximately to IELTS band 9.

Is IELTS harder than Cambridge?

Despite their differences, one test is no more difficult than the other. You may find the Cambridge tests more interesting than the IELTS, which is a bit more academic, but it doesn't mean that one is easier than the other.