Skill level Expert user Description Has fully operational command of the language: appropriate, accurate and fluent with complete understanding.

Skill level Very good user Description Has fully operational command of the language with only occasional unsystematic inaccuracies and inappropriacies. Misunderstandings may occur in unfamiliar situations. Handles complex detailed argumentation well.

Skill level Good user Description Has operational command of the language, though with occasional inaccuracies, inappropriacies and misunderstandings in some situations. Generally handles complex language well and understands detailed reasoning.

Skill level Competent user Description Has generally effective command of the language despite some inaccuracies, inappropriacies and misunderstandings. Can use and understand fairly complex language, particularly in familiar situations.

Skill level Modest user Description Has partial command of the language, coping with overall meaning in most situations, though is likely to make many mistakes. Should be able to handle basic communication in own field.

Skill level Limited user Description Basic competence is limited to familiar situations. Has frequent problems in understanding and expression. Is not able to use complex language.

Skill level Extremely limited user Description Conveys and understands only general meaning in very familiar situations. Frequent breakdowns in communication occur.

Skill level Intermittent user Description No real communication is possible except for the most basic information using isolated words or short formulae in familiar situations and to meet immediate needs. Has great difficulty understanding spoken and written English.

Skill level Non-user Description Essentially has no ability to use the language beyond possibly a few isolated words.

Skill level Did not attempt test Description No assessable information provided.

Listening Band Score Calculation for IELTS Success

IELTS Listening band scores

The IELTS Listening test consists of four parts, with a total of 40 questions. You earn one mark for each correct answer. Your total number of correct answers will form your 'raw' score, which is then converted into your band score. It's crucial to attempt every question, as leaving an answer blank will result in no marks.

The band score from your Listening test contributes to your overall IELTS band score.

Ready to book your test?

Book your test

IELTS Listening band score chart

Here is an example of the IELTS Listening score calculation for your reference and understanding of how your raw scores are converted into band scores:

The number of correct answers (Also called Raw Score)	Your band score
39-40	9
37-38	8.5
35-36	8
32-34	7.5
30-31	7
26-29	6.5
23-25	6
18-22	5.5
16-17	5
13-15	4.5
11-12	4

Access these IELTS Prep Essentials to Score 8+ Band

Offical IELTS Preparation Hub

Free IELTS Mock Tests

Free PDF Guide to Prepare for IELTS

IELTS Masterclass

IELTS Listening band scores according to skill level

Here are the Listening band scores according to the skill level. This will help you understand how you are marked on the basis of the band you have scored: