The IELTS Listening test is designed to assess your ability to understand spoken English in academic, professional, and social contexts. Whether you take the Academic or General Training version, the Listening test format and marking criteria remain the same. Understanding how the IELTS Listening marking system works is essential to achieving your desired band score.
1. Overview of the IELTS Listening Test
The IELTS Listening test has 40 questions, divided into four sections. Each correct answer is worth 1 mark, and your total raw score (out of 40) is then converted into an IELTS band score ranging from Band 1 to Band 9.
You will listen to four recordings of native English speakers, and answer questions that assess your understanding of main ideas, details, opinions, and specific information.
2. IELTS Listening Band Score Conversion Table (Approximation)
| Correct Answers (out of 40) | Band Score |
| 39–40 | 9.0 |
| 37–38 | 8.5 |
| 35–36 | 8.0 |
| 32–34 | 7.5 |
| 30–31 | 7.0 |
| 26–29 | 6.5 |
| 23–25 | 6.0 |
| 18–22 | 5.5 |
| 16–17 | 5.0 |
| 13–15 | 4.5 |
| 10–12 | 4.0 |
The IELTS Listening band conversion may vary slightly depending on the difficulty level of the test version.
3. How the IELTS Listening Marking Is Done
- Each correct answer = 1 point
- No negative marking for wrong answers
- Spelling and grammar accuracy are crucial; mistakes can reduce your score even if the idea is correct.
- All answers must be written clearly on the answer sheet during the 10-minute transfer time.
4. Common Question Types in IELTS Listening
- Multiple choice
- Matching
- Map/plan labeling
- Form or note completion
- Sentence completion
- Short-answer questions
These question types test not only comprehension but also focus, attention to detail, and understanding of synonyms or paraphrases.
5. Tips to Improve IELTS Listening Score
- Practice active listening daily with English podcasts and news.
- Familiarize yourself with accents (British, Australian, American).
- Use IELTS Listening practice tests under real exam conditions.
- Check spelling and plural forms carefully.
- Transfer answers accurately within the given 10 minutes.
6. Scoring Example
If you answered 33 out of 40 questions correctly, your estimated band score is 7.5.
This means your listening skills are considered “Good User” level according to IELTS descriptors.
7. How IELTS Listening Is Assessed
The Listening section is marked by certified examiners using a standardized scoring system.
All tests are double-checked and verified for fairness and consistency worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: How many questions do I need to get Band 7 in IELTS Listening?
Around 30–31 correct answers usually result in Band 7.
Q2: Does spelling matter in IELTS Listening?
Yes. Incorrect spelling is marked wrong, even if your answer is otherwise correct.
Q3: Is IELTS Listening marking the same for Academic and General Training?
Yes, both versions have the same Listening section and scoring system.
Q4: Are all recordings played once?
Yes, each recording is played only once, so practice focusing the first time.
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