MUET band score: what each band means

The CEFR summary: you follow long, demanding texts and pick up meaning that isn't stated outright, speak fluently without obvious searching for words, and write well-organised, detailed text on complex subjects.

Listening

Band 5: follows extended speech even when it is loosely structured and the links between ideas are only implied; understands TV programmes and films without much effort. Band 5+ has no separate descriptor.

Speaking

Band 5: gives detailed talks on complex subjects with sub-points and a proper close, and phrases ideas precisely in discussion, building on what others say. Band 5+: talks flow smoothly with a logical structure, idioms and colloquial English come naturally, and a slip is repaired so smoothly that listeners barely notice.

Reading

Band 5: long, complex factual and literary texts, with an ear for differences in style; specialised articles and long technical instructions outside your own field. Band 5+ has no separate descriptor.

Writing

Band 5: clear, well-structured and mostly accurate texts on complex subjects, with points backed by reasons and examples and a fitting conclusion. Band 5+: complex texts written smoothly and very accurately, organised so the reader finds the key points easily.

The CEFR summary: you get the main ideas of complex text, concrete or abstract, including technical discussion in your own field. Regular conversation with native speakers works without strain on either side, and you can explain a viewpoint with the pros and cons of each option.

Listening

Follows extended speech and lectures, even complex arguments, as long as the topic is fairly familiar. Understands most TV news, current-affairs programmes and films in standard English.

Speaking

Gives clear, detailed descriptions on many subjects in your field of interest and explains a stand on a current issue. Takes an active part in discussion, explaining and holding a view.

Reading

Reads articles on current problems where the writer takes a stance, and modern literary prose.

Writing

Writes clear, detailed formal or informal texts on a range of subjects and knows formal from informal language, with the odd expression that doesn't quite fit.

The CEFR summary: you understand the main points of clear, standard English on familiar matters such as school, work and leisure, write simple connected text on familiar topics, and give short reasons for your opinions and plans.

Listening

Gets the main points of clear standard speech on everyday matters, and of many radio or TV programmes when the speakers are fairly slow and clear.

Speaking

Links phrases simply to describe experiences, events, hopes and plans, and briefly explains why. Can join a conversation on a familiar topic without preparing.

Reading

Understands texts in everyday or job-related language, and descriptions of events and feelings in personal letters.

Writing

Writes straightforward responses on familiar topics. The text is understandable, though unclear expressions or inconsistencies sometimes trip the reader up.

The CEFR summary: you understand common expressions about everyday needs such as family, shopping and work, and handle simple, routine exchanges of information.

Listening

Band 2: catches high-frequency words and the main point of short, clear messages and announcements. Band 1: recognises familiar words and very basic phrases when people speak slowly and clearly.

Speaking

Band 2: describes everyday activities in a series of simple sentences and manages short social exchanges, but usually can't keep a conversation going. For Band 1, MPM refers back to Band 2.

Reading

Band 2: very short, simple texts; finds predictable details in adverts, menus and timetables. Band 1: familiar names, words and very simple sentences on notices and posters.

Writing

Band 2: simple sentences joined with simple connectors; longer texts may be hard to follow. Band 1: isolated phrases and sentences; longer texts may be very hard or impossible to understand.