New IELTS Computer Based Test

I’ve recently been asked a number of questions about the IELTS Computer Based Test. 

As this is a recent development in the test format, I’ve noticed a common theme in misconceptions related to the content, format, difficulty and advantages of this test.

IELTS Computer-Based Test vs Paper Test

The IELTS computer-based test has given students a new option in terms of the way that they sit the test. Because of this, it has also raised the question, which is the right test for YOU?

Most articles simply outline the differences between the tests such as 

• It is quicker to type 
• Good for candidates with poor handwriting 

But I’d like to consider, from a practical role, which is the best format for test-takers.

First though, here are the basic facts about the Computer Based Test:

IELTS Computer-Based Test Facts

1) The components of the computer-based test and the paper test are identical i.e. you are still tested in reading, listening, writing and speaking still happens with a live examiner the same day.

2) All of the question types are identical so don’t think, for example, that you can avoid certain types of question in the computer-based test.

3) The computer-based test has identical test parameters of reliability as the paper-test – This means it is designed to produce consistent results and will be as easy or as difficult as the paper based test.

4) The marking criteria for both tests are identical, so an understanding of the IELTS band descriptors is still required for writing.

5) Both the writing and the speaking sections continue to be marked by an examiner rather than a machine.

6) People often confuse accessibility with level of difficulty.

As you can see, what you are being tested on and how your results are calculated remains the same.

The IELTS computer-based test and the traditional paper test are identical. 

Which is best for you – IELTS on a computer or IELTS on paper ?

While the differences between the IELTS computer-based test and the traditional paper test are the methods in which it is delivered, it is quite possible that the different tests are suitable for different types of candidates.

General Considerations  Between the IELTS Computer-Based Test and the Paper Test

1. the IELTS computer-based test might be more expensive in your area, for example. in London, it’s around £30 more expensive to sit the computer-based.
2. the IELTS computer-based test might not yet be available in your region
3. the IELTS computer-based test is more frequently held in some test-centres than the paper test (useful if you have a visa deadline or are applying for PLAB)
4. the results of the IELTS computer-based test appear much more quickly (3 – 5 days as opposed to 13 days for the paper-based exam). 
   

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So, there we go!

An honest comparison of the IELTS Computer and paper Based test.

Which is right for you? Computer or Paper?

I’m Jonathan

I’ve taught IELTS and University English in more than a dozen universities and schools around the world.

I’m a parent, traveller and passionate about language teaching and helping students achieve their dreams.

Whilst living in Austria or working in Asia, I run IELTS courses to help students get to where they want to be.

If you are serious about IELTS, connect with me to see how I can help you.

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