IELTS test on paper

You can take IELTS Academic and General Training on paper. The contents, test part times, question types, scoring and results of the paper test are the exact same as the computer-delivered test, 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 Reading, Listening and Writing 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 them.