The IELTS proficiency test can also be thought of as a gatekeeping test. Applicants for graduate or post-graduate courses often need Band 6; hence, this band is significant. The presentation aims to profile features of Band 6 Writing for the Academic Module and to propose ways to strategically prepare students needing to enhance test-day performance. The presentation begins with a brief overview of the Academic Module writing test by explaining the two writing tasks. Then, an investigation of the public descriptors will determine essential features of Band 6 in order to inform a preparation practice focused on developing key competencies.