Paper-based IELTS test

You can take IELTS Academic and General Training on paper. The contents, test part times, question types, scoring and results of the paper-based 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. You can use a pen or HB-pencil to complete your Writing test, but you must use an HB-pencil to write your Listening and Reading answers on the answer sheet. In the paper-based IELTS test, 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.