IELTS Band 4 = PTE 30 = TOEFL 32: What Your Score Means
Understand Your English Level Across Tests
Different tests use different numbers. IELTS uses bands (0-9). PTE uses points (10-90). TOEFL uses scores (0-120).
But these numbers mean the same English level. This guide explains what your score means.
Score Comparison Table
| IELTS Band | PTE Score | TOEFL Score | Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4.0 | 30 | 32 | A2 (Elementary) |
| 4.5 | 36 | 35 | A2+ (Upper Elementary) |
| 5.0 | 42 | 42 | B1 (Intermediate) |
| 5.5 | 50 | 52 | B1+ (Upper Intermediate) |
| 6.0 | 58 | 64 | B2 (Upper Intermediate) |
| 6.5 | 65 | 79 | B2+ (Advanced) |
| 7.0 | 73 | 94 | C1 (Advanced) |
What Each Level Can Do
Band 4 / PTE 30 / TOEFL 32
At this level, you can:
- Have simple conversations about daily life
- Understand basic written texts
- Write simple sentences
- Ask for directions, order food, make simple requests
You have problems with:
- Academic or professional topics
- Long texts and fast speech
- Complex grammar
Band 5 / PTE 42 / TOEFL 42
At this level, you can:
- Handle most everyday situations
- Understand the main points of clear speech
- Read simple academic texts
- Write about familiar topics
What Scores Do You Need?
For University Study
Most universities need Band 5.5-6.5 (PTE 50-65, TOEFL 52-79). Top universities often need Band 7+ (PTE 73+, TOEFL 94+).
Foundation or pre-study programs may accept Band 4.5-5 (PTE 36-42, TOEFL 35-42).
For Immigration
Different countries have different rules:
- Australia Skilled Visa: Minimum Band 5 (PTE 36)
- Canada Express Entry: Band 4 minimum, higher gives more points
- UK Family Visa: Band 4 for speaking and listening
- New Zealand Skilled Worker: Band 5 minimum
For Work
Many jobs need Band 5-6 (PTE 42-58, TOEFL 42-64). Professional jobs often need Band 6.5+ (PTE 65+, TOEFL 79+).
How to Use This Information
1. Find out what score you need for your goal
2. Check your current level with a free diagnostic test
3. Calculate how much you need to improve
4. Make a study plan
Use our Score Converter Tool to compare scores instantly.
How Long to Improve One Band?
On average:
- Band 4 to Band 5: About 12 weeks (200-300 hours)
- Band 5 to Band 6: About 12-16 weeks (300-400 hours)
- Band 6 to Band 7: About 16-20 weeks (400-600 hours)
These times assume regular study (1-2 hours per day).