IELTS test on paper

Disclaimer:
We are pleased to announce that all IELTS tests will now be delivered on computer, providing a faster, more efficient and streamlined testing experience. IELTS on computer offers the same test format, questions and scoring as IELTS on paper. IELTS on computer also provides significant benefits to test takers at no additional cost.

• Faster results:  Typically receive your results in 1-2 days

• Faster booking: Book your test as late as one day before registration closes

• More test dates: More choice and flexibility for you

• One Skill Retake: Retake just one skill, not the whole test, if you need to improve your score.

We now offer IELTS on Computer (Writing on Paper). To find out more, see IELTS on Computer (Writing on Paper): Complete Guide.

You can take IELTS Academic and General Training on paper. The contents, test part times, question types, scoring, and results of the IELTS test on paper are the exact same as the test on a computer, but your test day experience is a little different. Test day staff will hand you booklets and answer sheets before each test, and will then collect these booklets and answer sheets before moving on to the next test part.

If you take IELTS on paper, you will complete the Writing, Reading, Listening, and Speaking parts on paper. The Writing, Reading, and Listening tests are all completed on the same day with no breaks between each test. The Speaking test is completed in a face-to-face interview with an IELTS examiner, and this can be done one week before or after your test date. Effective May 1, 2025, all test takers must use only black ballpoint pens when completing IELTS paper-based answer sheets. Test takers need not bring any stationery, as Test Centres will provide it.  

Please note: There is no change in how your IELTS test is marked. The switch from pencil to pen does not affect your score in any way. IELTS continues to maintain the same standards and quality processes that have enabled success for millions of test takers globally. 

Note: As of February 23rd, for anyone taking IELTS on Paper in Ontario or Quebec, the order of the components is now Writing, Reading, and then Listening. There is no change to the test content, scoring, or total test duration.

*The IELTS test is jointly owned by British Council, IELTS Australia Pty Ltd (ABN 84 008 664 766), which is wholly owned by IDP Education Ltd ('IDP: IELTS Australia') and Cambridge Assessment English (part of the University of Cambridge), collectively referred to as the IELTS TEST PARTNERS or IELTS PARTNER.