IELTS Listening Scores
How Listening scoring works
The IELTS Listening test has 40 questions. Each correct answer counts as 1 mark, which means that your raw score is out of 40. This raw score is then converted into a band score, from 1 to 9. If you are looking for a Reading band score, visit our IELTS Reading score calculator.
Listening uses the same scoring system for Academic and General Training. Use the calculator and table below as a guide to understand your results.
Listening Band Score Calculator
Enter your raw score (0–40) from your listening practice test to calculate your band score. Alternatively, you can use the table below.
Note: IELTS conversions can vary slightly by test version. Use this as an approximation only.
IELTS Listening Score Table
Find your raw score (out of 40) from previous listening tests and match them to the band scores. Note that IELTS conversions can vary slightly by test version. Use this as an approximation only.
Want to improve your listening band score? Try our guided listening practice and strategies course.
Go to Free Listening CoursesListening (Academic & General Training)
| Band | Raw score (out of 40) |
|---|---|
| 9.0 | 39–40 |
| 8.5 | 37–38 |
| 8.0 | 35–36 |
| 7.5 | 32–34 |
| 7.0 | 30–31 |
| 6.5 | 26–29 |
| 6.0 | 23–25 |
| 5.5 | 18–22 |
| 5.0 | 16–17 |
| 4.5 | 13–15 |
| 4.0 | 10–12 |
Our guide to raising your Listening score
Listening improves fastest when you practice with the right habits. Learn to predict, remain focused, and review your mistakes in test conditions.
- Practise under real timing conditions
- Follow instructions carefully (NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS, etc.)
- Read ahead: use the pause to predict answers and underline keywords
- Listen for paraphrases: the answer is often said differently
- Stay with the audio: if you miss one, let it go and move on
- Review errors: learn your weaknesses, such as spelling or difficult question types
Start with our free self-study courses for guided practice.
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