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Comparing IELTS on Computer and IELTS on Paper
The IELTS test format, question types, allocated test time, and content remain consistent whether you opt for IELTS on Computer or IELTS on Paper. The main distinction lies in your test day experience.
Why choose the IELTS on Computer?
Unlock a range of benefits with IELTS on Computer:
Swift results for IELTS on Computer: Receive your results in just 3-5 days, where you can check your results on IDP's website
. While the results are provisional, your official Test Report Form (TRF) will soon follow as your IELTS test centre will send your official TRF to your postal address 3 to 5 days after your test date.
Convenient typing: Embrace the convenience of typing your answers through the computer-based test format, streamlining the test-taking process.
But do note that the Speaking test component maintains its dynamic face-to-face format.
Experience a seamless transition to IELTS on Computer and enjoy faster results without compromising the integrity of the test.
How the IELTS on Computer works
Experience the convenience of taking the test through the computer-delivered format. Simply visit an official IELTS test centre, where you'll complete your assessment on a computer. Here, you'll find the Listening, Reading, and Writing questions displayed on the screen, allowing you to type in your answers directly. The Speaking section maintains its face-to-face format, where you engage with a trained IELTS examiner.
For each section, you'll have a helpful clock at the top of the screen, indicating your remaining time. The clock will flash when you have just 5 or 10 minutes left and automatically stops when the time runs out. Navigating the test questions is easy with the bottom navigation bar. If you need assistance, the top section provides additional information. Plus, there's a handy help tab explaining the task at hand and how the test operates. You even have the flexibility to highlight sections on the screen and hide the screen momentarily if needed.
Preparing for the IELTS on Computer
To excel in the IELTS on Computer, consider these invaluable tips:
Practice online: IDP offers an array of free online practice materials such as an IELTS sample test and an IELTS masterclass to enhance your preparation.
Familiarisation test: Take advantage of the free IELTS familiarisation tests on the computer to acquaint yourself with the computer-based test format.
Booking your IELTS on Computer
At IDP, flexibility is your ally in choosing how to take your IELTS test. Whether you prefer the IELTS on Computer or IELTS on Paper, you can select from over 450 test locations in 60 countries. Booking your IELTS test is a breeze, and you have two convenient options: book online or visit your nearest IDP branch for an offline booking. During this process, simply upload a clear colour scan or photo of your passport and complete the payment with your credit card.
IELTS test fees
The Academic and General Training test fee is the same. You can contact your nearest test centre to find out the test fee for your country and in your local currency. The approximate cost of the test is USD 245.
Additional IELTS computer test resources
Ask IELTS
Yes. IELTS on computer provides a note-taking and highlight function. You can try these functions in the familiarisation tests here. You can also write notes on the login details sheet you receive at the beginning of the test.
The Listening, Reading, and Writing parts of the test are completed immediately after each other on the same day. In some test centres, you will sit the Speaking test on the same day, or up to 7 days before or after your test date.
If you take IELTS on computer, the Speaking test will be taken on the same day, either before, or after the other three parts of the test.
If you choose to take IELTS on computer, you will take the Listening, Reading and Writing test parts using a computer.
If you choose to take the IELTS on paper, you will complete the Listening, Reading and Writing test parts on paper.
The Speaking test for both paper and computer are face to face with an examiner. This is the best way to measure your speaking skills as it takes a more realistic approach: a life-like conversation with an examiner.
You must bring the same passport or national identity card that you used to book your IELTS test. If you do an IELTS on paper test, you can take pens, pencils and erasers into the examination room. If you do an IELTS on computer test, the centre will provide you with pencils and paper.
You must leave all of your personal belongings outside the examination room in a secure area or locker. Mobile phones, pagers and smart watches must be switched off and left with your personal belongings.
If you keep mobile phones or electronic devices with you, you will be disqualified.
Headphones will always be provided for IELTS on computer.
For IELTS on paper, headphones are used in some countries, but not a requirement for all IELTS test centres.
You can ask your centre to use headphones or special amplification equipment to help you hear the recording, but you will need to ask at least two weeks before your test date.
The Academic and General Training test fee is the same. You can contact your nearest test centre to find out the test fee for your country and in your local currency. The approximate cost of the test is USD 245.
What to expect in an IELTS on computer test
Taking IELTS on a computer is a little different. Find out what your test day might look like, from the check-in process to each of the test parts.
Why Tom and Shanshan chose IELTS on computer
Hear from two IELTS test takers, Tom and Shanshan. Find out why they chose to take IELTS on computer over IELTS on paper.
Find out about the IELTS Listening test in the IELTS on computer format
Here are some handy tips to help you understand the IELTS Listening test in the IELTS on computer test format.
A virtual tour of an IELTS on computer test centre
Take a virtual tour of an IELTS on computer test centre and get a better understanding of what test day looks like.
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