How is IELTS score band calculated for reading and listening in academics?

There are 40 questions each in listening and learning modules. The correct answer to each question carries one mark. The marks one score in the actual test are then converted into a band score. For instance, if one scores 36-36 marks, then one is awarded, 8 bands. However, there are some differences in listening and reading scores. To illustrate, if one scores 32 marks in listening, he/she will receive a 7.5 band but in learning 32 marks is still valued as a seven-band.
Note: Listening module and its scoring pattern are the same for both Academic and General tests, but the reading module and its scoring pattern are different.

Academic Reading

Listening

For both reading and listening in IELTS ACADEMICS, you have to attempt 40 questions for each module. Based on the no. Of correct answers, you get the band. For example, out of 40 questions in listening to you get 37-38, then you will be able to score a band up 8.5. Likewise, in reading the band score depends on the number of correct answers. You do not lose marks for incorrect answers. 

The maximum band score in IELTS is 9 in each module and the overall band score is also 9. The strategy for score calculation for reading and listening modules depends on the number of questions answered correctly by the candidate in theat module. The total number of questions is 40 both in reading and listening; may it be IELTS- general training or IELTS academics. if you are able to answer minum of 20 question but lessa than 25, you may get band 4.5. If the total number of correct answers is between 25 and 30, you are sure to get band 5 but if the standard of the question paper that is the toughness of the questions is highere, you cqn uneoubtedly get 5.5.  More than 30 correct answers would fetch you band score 6, and if you are able to make 35 correct answers and abouve you will surely achieve more than average band 7. If you targetting at band 8 you must answer minimum 37 questions correctly. 39 correct answers would surely make you stand out with 8.5 band.   Needless to be told if you answer all the 40 questions correctly. If the question paper standard is considerable easier, you may get band 9 for 38/39 correct answers.  Thus the score in reading and listening depends on not only the number of questions answered correctly but also the standard of questions whether they are easy or tough. However, for each test slot this  may vary as decided the team of evaluatiors under the guidance of IELTS boards concerned.