IELTS Listening Module

The IELTS Listening Module is designed to assess your ability to understand spoken English in a variety of contexts. It lasts about 30 minutes, followed by an additional 10 minutes to transfer answers (on paper-based tests). In the computer-delivered test, you are given 2 minutes to review answers.

The Listening test is the same for both Academic and General Training IELTS.

Format of the Listening Test

The test has 4 sections with a total of 40 questions. Each section becomes progressively more challenging. You will hear the recordings only once.

Section 1 – Everyday Conversation

• A conversation between two people in a social or everyday setting.

• Example: Booking a hotel room, asking for travel information.

Section 2 – Monologue on Everyday Topics

• A single speaker discussing a general topic.

• Example: A guided tour, information about a community event.

Section 3 – Academic Discussion

• A conversation between 2–4 people in an academic or training context.

• Example: Students discussing an assignment with a tutor.

Section 4 – Academic Lecture

• A monologue on an academic subject.

• Example: A university lecture or seminar.

Question Types

The IELTS Listening test includes a variety of question types, such as:

• Multiple choice

• Matching

• Plan, map, or diagram labeling

• Form, note, table, flowchart, or summary completion

• Sentence completion

• Short-answer questions

Scoring

• There are 40 questions in total.

• Each correct answer is awarded 1 mark.

• Scores are then converted into an IELTS Band Score (0–9).

Example conversion:

• 30/40 = Band 7.0

• 35/40 = Band 8.0

Key Features

• You will hear accents from English-speaking countries such as the UK, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and the US.

• You must follow conversations and lectures closely, understanding both factual information and main ideas.

• Spelling is important – incorrect spelling may result in a lost mark.

Tips for Success in IELTS Listening

• Read the questions before the recording starts to know what to listen for.

• Pay attention to keywords and synonyms – the recording may not use the exact words from the question.

• Write answers clearly and check spelling.

• Be careful with numbers, dates, and times.

• Do not leave any blank answers – guessing is better than leaving it empty.

• Practice listening to a variety of English accents through podcasts, news, and lectures.

Remember: The IELTS Listening test checks both your understanding of details and your ability to follow the main ideas. With practice, focus, and effective strategies, you can achieve a higher band score.