# Interpreting overall scores

Speechace API IELTS estimated scores are based on a standard IELTS scale of 0.0 to 9.0 and the standard [IELTS speaking band descriptors](https://www.ielts.org/-/media/pdfs/speaking-band-descriptors.ashx).

### Overall Score Bands

**9**

* Demonstrates excellent fluency and coherence with rare to no pauses.
* Has excellent vocabulary and demonstrates preciseness and sophistication in using words.
* Has excellent pronunciation and sounds similar to a native English speaker.

***

**8**

* Demonstrates excellent fluency and coherence with occasional pauses.
* Uses a wide range of vocabulary and idioms with rare mistakes.
* Uses perfect colloquial grammar while speaking.
* Has very good pronunciation with very mild accent.

***

**7**

* Demonstrates generally good fluency and coherence while speaking but may take occasional pauses.
* Is proficient in using sophisticated vocabulary and idiomatic structures.
* Proficient in expressing complex thoughts using a range of grammar structures.
* Has reasonably good pronunciation with some accent.

***

**6**

* Demonstrates reasonable fluency and coherence. Sometimes may hesitate while speaking due to inability to come up with appropriate vocabulary or grammar.
* Has a reasonably high vocabulary and frequently uses uncommon idiomatic structures.
* Generally uses good grammar while speaking but may make occasional mistakes.
* Can generally be understood while speaking but can mispronounce frequently.

***

**5**

* Demonstrates below average fluency and coherence. May need remedial training in speaking fluently and language construction.
* Has limited vocabulary and and may have difficulty expressing complex thoughts.
* Good at speaking simple sentences but regularly makes grammatical mistakes.
* Has below average pronunciation accuracy and may not be easy to understand.

***

**4 and below**

* Does not have adequate fluency and coherence and may need remedial training in speaking fluently.
* Has inadequate vocabulary and may need remedial coaching.
* Has below average knowledge of grammar usage in speaking. Needs language coaching to improve.
* Does not have adequate pronunciation accuracy and may require remedial training in spoken English.