If you’ve done IELTS before, you might know the paper test. For this test, the Listening, Reading and Writing sections are IELTS on paper and the Speaking test is conducted face-to-face with a trained IELTS examiner. So, what about the computer test? IELTS on computer is exactly the same test as IELTS on paper, but instead of writing your answers on paper, you type them on a computer. However, there are some benefits of doing IELTS on a computer.
What is the difference between IELTS on computer and IELTS on paper?
If you’re familiar with the paper test, you might notice a few changes between the paper test and the computer test. The obvious change is the paper tests uses a pencil, while in the computer test you type. The order of the test is different and the Listening test is shorter. Also, you get headphones for the Listening test. What hasn’t changed is the Speaking test.
Pencil or keyboard?
In the IELTS test on paper, we’ll give you a pencil and an answer sheet. You need to write your answers on the answer sheet before the time runs out. With IELTS on computer, you type your answers in the corresponding boxes on your screen. We’ll still give you a pencil or pen and paper to make notes – even if you do IELTS on computer. Are you concerned about not typing fast enough? There’s no need to worry: the computer test is designed for people with normal typing skills. If you can write an email, you can do the test on a computer.
The order of the test is different
In Canada, the IELTS on paper test starts with Writing, then Reading, and finally Listening. Sometimes you do your Speaking straight after this. But some test centres may offer your Speaking test on a different day. The IELTS test on computer starts with Listening, followed by Reading and then Writing. The Speaking test usually takes place on the same day, either before or after your computer test.
The Listening test is shorter
If you’ve done an IELTS test on paper before, you may remember that you need to write your answers in the question booklet while you listen to the recording. So, in the paper test, you get 10 minutes at the end of the Listening section to transfer your answers to the answer sheet. In the computer test, you type your answers in their appropriate places on the screen. You do get time between sections to check your answers, but no extra time at the end. Because you’ve already completed your answers, the 10 minutes is not needed. Besides, you won’t miss it.
The exam venue
Have you done a paper test before? If so, you might remember that IELTS on paper tests are usually conducted in a larger room. Sometimes at a university, or at a hotel which is centrally located. IELTS on computer tests are done in smaller, custom-built, brand-new rooms. Everything in the test room is designed for your comfort.
You get headphones
Apart from a new test room, everyone doing IELTS on computer has their own computer, a quality screen and your own headphones for the Listening test. You don’t need to talk to a machine with IELTS, so there is no microphone in your way. Even better, we make sure that our headphones are good. Most test centres offer noise-cancelling headphones, so you can focus on your own performance.
“IELTS on computer: You can book today, and get your results next week.”
Why do IELTS on computer?
There are a few reasons why you should do IELTS on computer. Most importantly, you get your results back in 2-5 days. Also, you don’t have to wait to do your test. You can book your test today, and get your results next week. That’s great if you need to prove your English language score for migration or study. But, there are a few more reasons.
Faster results
With IELTS on computer you get your results in 2-5 days. So, if you need your results urgently for a visa application or to study at a university, book IELTS on computer. Of course, your IELTS results are accepted by more than 12,000 organisations around the world.
More flexibility – do IELTS when you need it
You can do IELTS on computer up to 7 days a week and up to 3 times a day, academic or General Training. You can book your test today, and have your results next week! And, with IELTS, you don’t pay for a late booking. The IELTS test fee is the same.
Easier experience
Remember what we said before about custom-built, comfortable test rooms? Fewer people doing the test at the same time means less stress and a quicker experience. Imagine boarding an international flight with 200+ passengers, or a plane with 12 people on board. Which one is easier? The speaking test is still with a real human
The IELTS Speaking test is not on computer. You do it face-to-face, in a quiet room, with an experienced and friendly IELTS examiner. This allows for a real-world speaking experience. Besides, a real human understands your accent – you are not penalised for having an accent. Other English tests make you talk to a computer, and get this marked by a computer. As a result, even native English speakers can perform more poorly than expected. With IELTS, you talk to a real human. You can ask an examiner to clarify a question or repeat or rephrase a question.