Samples by band
See what each score looks like. Every answer is annotated against the official criteria, so you can spot what to copy and what to avoid.
29 Writing 16 SpeakingTap a colour to jump to that level.
- 4.5–5.57BuildingSimple sentences, some errors
- 6–6.56CompetentSome complex sentences
- 7–7.517StrongWide range of structures
- 8–915ExpertPrecise, natural phrasing
AllWritingSpeakingWriting Task 2Academic Task 1General Task 1Speaking Part 1Speaking Part 2Speaking Part 3Show all levels ✕
Band 8–9 · Expert
Natural, precise and fully developed. Errors are rare and slight.
- Precise, natural phrasing
- Seamless flow of ideas
- Skilful, accurate control
9.08.58.08.08.08.08.08.08.08.08.08.08.08.08.0
Writing Task 2
Cooking at school (Band 9 version)
Speaking Part 2
A holiday place (Band 8.5 version)
Academic Task 1
Internet access by country (table)
Academic Task 1
Monthly rainfall in two cities
General Task 1
Letter inviting a friend to visit
General Task 1
Letter to a landlord about broken heating
Speaking Part 1
Cooking
Speaking Part 2
Describe a book you enjoyed
Speaking Part 3
Reading habits
Speaking Part 3
Who protects the environment? (Band 8)
Writing Task 2
Compulsory voting (opinion essay)
Writing Task 2
Cooking at school (Band 8 version)
Writing Task 2
Should university education be free?
Writing Task 2
Traffic congestion, problems and solutions
Writing Task 2