IELTS on Computer test

Both the General Training and Academic IELTS tests can be taken on a computer. The IELTS on Computer and the IELTS on Paper tests have the same test format, question types, time allocated to each test part and content. However, your test day experience and delivery methods are the only differences, as the first is an IELTS test delivered on a computer while the latter is answered on paper.

IELTS on Computer test format

If you decide to take the IELTS on Computer, you will sit a computer-delivered IELTS test to complete the Listening, Reading and Writing sections of the test. This means that you will type all your responses on the screen. During the Listening test, you will also be allowed to write notes on a piece of notepaper.

The IELTS Speaking remains the same, with a face-to-face interview with an examiner. The Speaking test will be completed either just before, or just after the Listening, Reading and Writing test parts.

IELTS on Computer duration

The IELTS on Computer lasts a total of 2 hours and 45 minutes. Compared to the IELTS on Paper test, the timeframes for the IELTS on Computer Listening test are a little bit different:

• Before beginning any part of the Listening test, you will have some time to read your questions.

• After you complete the Listening test, you will have two minutes to review your responses.

• The Listening test lasts between 30 - 34 minutes.

IELTS on Computer Listening test

The question types are the same as those on a paper test. You'll attempt questions such as: 

• Multiple-choice

• Matching

• Labelling a plan/map/diagram

• Form/note/table/flow-chart/summary/sentence completion

• Short answer questions

Several useful tools are available to help you during the Listening test when taking IELTS on Computer. Here are some of the most common:

Help button: You can discover test-related instructions by using the search bar at the top of the screen.

Navigation bar: You can see all 40 questions in the section by clicking on the bottom of your screen.

Arrow buttons: You can go back and forth between the questions using these, as the name implies.

Volume buttons: You can change the volume according to your needs.

Once you have submitted your answers, a line will appear under the question number. In case you decide to edit it, click ‘Review’.

IELTS on Computer Reading test

The IELTS on Computer test follows the same format as the IELTS on paper test, so the question types will also be the same. These include:

• Multiple-choice

• Identifying whether information is true or false

• Recognise a writer’s views and claims

• Matching information/headings/features/sentence endings

• Sentence/ summary/table/note/flow-chart/diagram completion

• Short answer questions

The screen is split in half for your Reading exam. The reading text is on the left and the questions are on the right. Also, you can highlight text and make notes in your passage wherever you want.

IELTS on Computer Writing test

Just like the other sections, the format of the IELTS on Computer Writing test remains the same. The test is primarily divided into two parts (or tasks):

• Task 1: In the Academic Writing test, you will be asked to describe, summarise or explain data in the form of a graph, table, chart or diagram. If you’re taking the General Training Writing, you will be asked to write a letter.

• Task 2: In both the Academic and General Training tests, you will be required to write an essay outlining your point of view, argument or problem in a certain situation.

You can opt to answer the tasks in any order. As you move through the test, your answers will automatically be saved. At the bottom of the screen, there is also an automatic word counter that will do the word-counting for you, so you don't have to.

IELTS on Computer Speaking test

The IELTS Speaking remains the same, with a face-to-face interview with an examiner. The Speaking test will be completed either just before, or just after the Listening, Reading and Writing test parts.

Benefits of IELTS on Computer

• Results are processed more quickly and become available 1-5 days after the test is complete. 

• More test dates and sessions are available, allowing you to take IELTS at a time convenient for you.

How to choose your option and prepare for the IELTS on Computer test?

The sample test questions will help you decide which option you prefer and will help you prepare better for the test. These sample materials will give you an idea of what to expect in the Listening, Reading and Writing sections.

It is important that you choose the right option so that you feel comfortable and confident when you take the test. You need to decide whether you prefer to read the texts and write your answers on a computer or on paper.