Which test should I take?

IELTS paper-based or computer-delivered?

Learn about the different IELTS test formats and find out which one best suits you!

You can take the IELTS Academic test and the IELTS General Training test on either paper or computer.

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.

Paper-based

Listening, Reading and Writing tests on paper (at the test venue)
Speaking test is face-to-face with an examiner
Results in 13 days
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Computer-delivered
Listening, Reading and Writing tests in front of a computer (at the test venue)
Speaking test is face-to-face with an examiner
Results in 3-5 days
See more

IELTS paper-based

Listening, Reading, Writing

You will complete these sections on paper. You should use an HB-pencil to complete your Writing test and write your Listening and Reading answers on the answer sheet.
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The Listening, Reading and Writing tests are all completed on the same day with no breaks between each test.

Speaking

The Speaking test is completed in a face-to-face interview with an IELTS examiner (either in person or online from the test venue, depending on Speaking Examiners' availability).

Unlike other Test Centres that may programme your speaking test from seven days before up to seven days after your written test, at Certify Education & Assessment we will always programme your speaking test for the same day as your written test. Therefore, you can be sure to complete all parts of the test in one day.

‍Your results will be made available to you 13 days after the test date.

IELTS computer-delivered

Listening, Reading, Writing

You will complete these sections in front of a computer. All answers will be typed on the screen.

The Listening, Reading and Writing tests are all completed on the same day with no breaks between each test.

Speaking

The Speaking test is completed in a face-to-face interview with an IELTS examiner (either in person or online from the test venue, depending on Speaking Examiners' availability).

The Speaking test will be completed on the same day as the Reading, Listening, and Writing test sections.

With computer-delivered IELTS your results will be available within 3 to 5 days.‍
FAQ

Any questions?

Can I bring in my own pencil and paper into the IELTS test?
For both paper-based and computer-delivered IELTS, you will not  be able to bring your own paper into the test for security reasons. We will also provide you with a non-mechanical pencil, a pencil sharpener and an eraser on the day of your test.
Do I have to write in pencil for the paper-based IELTS test?
You should complete the IELTS Listening, Reading, and Writing tests in an HB non-mechanical pencil. This is because tests are scanned and work best with pencil. It also means that you can easily erase and rewrite words.
If I take paper-based IELTS, can I write notes in the question booklets?
Yes, you are encouraged to write notes on the question booklets. IELTS examiners do not have access to your question booklets.
Can I make notes during the computer-delivered IELTS test?
Yes. Computer-delivered IELTS provides a note-taking and highlight function. You can also write notes on the login details sheet you receive at the beginning of the test.
Will I get my results faster if I take IELTS on computer?
If you take IELTS on computer, you will receive your results 3 to 5 days after sitting your test. However, if you take IELTS on paper, you will receive your results 13 days after sitting your test.
For any further questions, please don't hesitate to contact us!