Which test should I take?

IELTS on paper or on computer

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.

On Paper Test

Listening, Reading and Writing tests on paper (at the test venue)
Speaking test is with an examiner
Results in 13 days
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On Computer Test
Listening, Reading and Writing tests in front of a computer (at the test venue)
Speaking test is with an examiner
Results in 1-5 days
See more

IELTS on paper

Listening, Reading, Writing

You will complete these sections on paper. We will provide you with a pen 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 on computer

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 testing your IELTS results will be available within 1 to 5 days.‍
FAQ

Any questions?

Can I bring in my own pen and paper into the IELTS test?
For both IELTS on paper or computer, you will not  be able to bring your own pen and paper to the test for security reasons. We will provide you with both on the day of your test.
Do I have to write in pen or pencil for the paper-based IELTS test?
From May 2025 you should complete the IELTS Listening, Reading, and Writing tests using a black ballpoint pen which we will provide. This is because the tests are scanned and work best with a black pen. If you make a mistake, simply cross it out and rewrite your answer in the designated box.
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. IELTS on computer provides a note-taking and highlight function. You will also always have a piece of paper to take notes on.
Will I get my results faster if I take IELTS on computer?
If you take IELTS on computer, you will receive your results 1 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!