Should I know how the IELTS Listening section is structured before my test as an Indian test taker?
The IELTS Listening section typically has 4 sections of 10 questions each, with around 30 minutes allotted, and each recording plays only once. Paper-based candidates usually get 10 extra minutes to transfer answers. The section is the same for Academic and General Training, so check the official page.
The IELTS Listening section typically has 4 sections of 10 questions each, with around 30 minutes allotted. Each recording plays only once. Paper-based candidates usually get 10 extra minutes to transfer answers, and the section is the same for Academic and General Training.
Section Structure
| Section | Number of speakers | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Section 1 | 2 speakers | A conversation or a transaction |
| Section 2 | 1 speaker | A talk on a general topic |
| Section 3 | 2 to 4 speakers | A conversation in an academic or educational context |
| Section 4 | 1 speaker | An academic lecture |
Timing, Accents and Question Types
- Total time is typically around 30 minutes, with about 10 extra minutes for a paper-based test to transfer answers.
- The Listening section is the same for Academic and General Training.
- Recordings can feature UK, US, Canadian, Australian and New Zealand accents.
- Question types include note, form, table or flowchart completion, multiple choice, short answer, matching, sentence completion and plan, map or diagram labelling.
My Advice
Practise with audio you can play only once and train your ear on different accents. Learn each question type so you know what to expect. Check the official IELTS page for the latest format.
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More IELTS questions
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- What are the chances of getting a conditional offer letter requiring IELTS even if I have a good 12th standard score?
- Can I study in the UK without IELTS, and which universities accept other English tests?
- Would you suggest me to give IELTS first before starting the application process in Germany/Italy for a Master's?
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- Is it possible to get an IELTS exemption if my transcript states that my medium of instruction was English?
- Can I still take IELTS as a paper-based test?
- How are my Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking sections marked in IELTS?