Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 30 October 2026
Band 8 wording on errors, by criterion
From the ielts.org Speaking band descriptors.
| Criterion | Band 8 wording |
|---|---|
| Grammatical range and accuracy | Wide range of structures, flexibly used. The majority of sentences are error free. Occasional inappropriacies and non-systematic errors occur. A few basic errors may persist. |
| Lexical resource | Skilful use of less common and idiomatic items despite occasional inaccuracies in word choice and collocation. |
| Fluency and coherence | Fluent with only very occasional repetition or self-correction. Hesitation may occasionally be used to find words or grammar, but most will be content related. |
| Pronunciation | Can be easily understood throughout. Accent has minimal effect on intelligibility. Flexible stress and intonation despite occasional lapses. |
Band 7 and band 9 for comparison
Band 7 grammar: 'error-free sentences are frequent' and simple and complex sentences are used effectively 'despite some errors. A few basic errors persist.' Hesitation and self-correction may show problems accessing language but do not affect coherence.
Band 9 grammar: structures are 'precise and accurate at all times, apart from mistakes characteristic of native speaker speech' (descriptors).
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How examiners apply it
The descriptor notes say a candidate must fully fit the positive features of a level, and is rated on their average performance across all parts of the test (ielts.org). The four criteria carry equal weight in the Speaking band (ielts.org).
Practise against the same four criteria in IELTS Speaking practice, and read every level in our Speaking band descriptors guide.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get band 8 Speaking with grammar mistakes?+
Yes. The band 8 descriptor allows occasional non-systematic errors and a few persistent basic errors, as long as most sentences are error-free.
Does one bad answer stop band 8?+
Not by itself. ielts.org's notes say you are rated on average performance across all parts.
Does hesitating lower my band 8 chances?+
Band 8 allows occasional hesitation to find words or grammar, as long as most hesitation is about content.
Is accent a mistake in Speaking?+
No. At band 8, accent has minimal effect on intelligibility; at band 9 it has no effect.
Keep reading
Related
- IELTS Speaking band descriptors
- How many mistakes for band 8 Writing
- IELTS Speaking practice
- All 3112 guides
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