Your dreams of studying abroad could depend on your ability to listen well. Most universities overseas require students to submit an English language proficiency exam score with their applications. The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) has been a popular exam choice for young Indians who hope to study abroad. The exam has four sections – reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Let’s explore what you need to know about your IELTS listening score and how it can impact your overall IELTS band score.
What Is the IELTS Listening Band Score?
The IELTS listening test assesses a candidate’s ability to follow and comprehend ideas, tackle opinions and understand information. The listening band score measures your ability to understand spoken English in various accents and contexts. The listening section consists of four recorded monologues and conversations. Each is played only once and followed by ten questions. Your score for all 40 questions is converted into a band score ranging from 0 to 9, with 9 being the highest possible score.
Importance of IELTS Band Score in Listening
Students aiming to study at some of the best universities around the world often require a high listening score. Top universities often list their minimum IELTS requirements and individual band requirements as well. For example, Oxford University requires candidates to have an overall IELTS score of 7.5 and individual band scores of no less than 7. So, a listening score of 6.5 could damage your chances of admission.
Apart from improving your chances of getting into your dream university, a high score helps demonstrate your ability to handle academic lectures, discussions, and daily conversations in an English-speaking environment.
IELTS Listening Test Format
The IELTS Listening General section includes four recordings of native English speakers. Candidates need to listen and write answers to the questions. The recordings typically include:
- A conversation between two people in a social context
- A monologue or speech about anything
- A conversation among four people set in a training or educational context
- A monologue on an educational topic
Score for Listening IELTS – Calculating Your Results
Your listening score depends on the number of correct answers you give. The IELTS does not follow negative markings, so you should attempt to answer all the questions. The test utilises an IELTS listening score calculator to convert the raw scores (the number of correct answers) into the band score. For example, 40 correct answers will give you a band score of 9. You can use online score calculators to estimate your band score based on your practice test results.
IELTS Band Score Chart for Academic Reading and Listening
The band score chart for academic reading and listening provides a standardised way to interpret the scores. Both sections are scored on a scale of 0 to 9, and the chart indicates what the scores mean in terms of language proficiency:
| Score | Interpretation |
| Band 9 | Expert user – Has full command of the language. |
| Band 8 | Very good user – Has full command with occasional inaccuracies. |
| Band 7 | Good user – Has operational command with occasional misunderstandings. |
| Band 6 | Competent user – Has an effective command despite some inaccuracies. |
| Band 5 | Modest user – Has partial command and can handle basic communication. |
| Band 4 | Limited user – Has limited command and frequently shows problems in understanding and expression. |
| Band 3 | Extremely limited user – Understands only general meaning. There are frequent breakdowns in communication. |
| Band 2 | Intermittent user – Has great difficulty understanding spoken and written English. |
| Band 1 | Non-user – Cannot use the language except for a few isolated words. |
| Band 0 | Did not attempt the test |
Types of Questions to Expect in IELTS Listening
You can expect six types of questions in the listening section of the exam:
Multiple Choice
You will have to choose from three options. In some instances, two or more options could be right. Ensure you select all the correct answers in such situations.
Matching
You have to match the options provided with the apt connector to score a point.
Plan, Map, Diagram Labelling
These questions aim to test your spatial understanding and directional senses.
Form, Table, Flowchart, Summary Completion
You have to fill in gaps or blanks in the questions. They may ask you for the names of events, people or processes through tables and charts.
Sentence Completion
Fill in the blanks in each sentence based on the information you heard in the recording.
Short-Answer Questions
Provide short answers to the questions based on the recordings.
Tips to Improve Your Score
Consider the following strategies to boost your score:
Practise Regularly
Listening to various English accents and dialects helps you familiarise yourself with different pronunciations and speech patterns.
Take Mock Tests
Getting a feel of the actual test environment helps you manage time effectively and reduces anxiety.
Track Your Progress
Identify areas that need more work and compare your scores over time to understand your progress.
Watch Films and Listen to the Radio
Watching English films and listening to English radio channels can help you develop your listening skills.
Financing Your IELTS Registration and More
Pursuing your higher education abroad could open the doors to several new opportunities and a better life. However, arranging your finances can seem like a challenge. Many students do not even think about the cost of registering for tests like the IELTS and applying for the required student visa. Lenders like Avanse offer education loans to study abroad that cover all these costs and more. You can apply for an education loan to help with your tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, test registration, and more.
The IELTS is one step on your journey to achieving your academic aspirations. Understanding the various sections and working on improving your score can help you fulfil your dreams. Remember to evaluate your finances and consider the help of a student loan to empower your future.