IELTS Listening
Test Overview
Everything you need to know about the Listening test format, question types, and strategies.
In this guide:
- • Section structure
- • Question types
- • Note-taking tips
- • Scoring system
Format
You have 30 minutes to listen to the recording and write your answers directly on the test booklet; then a further 10 minutes at the end of the test to check and transfer your answers onto the answer sheet provided.
Assessment Criteria
The Listening Test is scored using a system that may slightly vary with each IELTS test. Band cut-offs are set after global results are analysed. Approximate scores are:
Band Score Targets
Key Skills Tested
- • Understanding main ideas and specific details
- • Following conversations and monologues
- • Identifying speaker attitudes and opinions
- • Recognising factual information
Question Types
There are 6 main types of question and the questions increase in difficulty as the test progresses. All questions are worth 1 mark. The questions will usually be formatted in one of the following ways:
Missing Information
Fill in the gaps with the correct information you hear
Diagram Labeling
Label parts of a diagram based on the audio
Matching Information
Match speakers to statements or opinions
Multiple Choice
Choose the correct answer from multiple options
Sentence Completion
Complete sentences with words from the audio
Short Answer Questions
Answer questions with a few words or numbers
It's very important that you accurately follow the instructions for each set of questions. If the format of your answer differs from instructed, even if the correct information is included, your answer will be marked WRONG.
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Listen & answer 10 questions with instant scoring. Takes approximately ~10 min.
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