Frequently Asked Questions about IELTS

1. Which test is best for me?

This comes down to personal preference and choice. Some test takers will be used to paper-based tests as this might feel similar to other exam situations from school, whereas other people might feel more comfortable typing. Information on both test formats is available here.

With IELTS, you have a choice. Visit IELTS.org to help you explore which IELTS might be more suitable for you.

2. Is it the same content as a paper-based test?

Yes. The computer-delivered test will cover the listening, reading and writing skills. The test will be the same as paper-based IELTS in terms of content, scoring, level of difficulty and question types. The Speaking test is not changing and will still be carried out face to face with a trained IELTS Examiner.

3. Is IELTS on a computer harder than IELTS paper-based?

No. The computer-delivered test will cover the listening, reading and writing skills. The test will be the same as paper-based IELTS in terms of content, scoring, level of difficulty and question types. The Speaking test is not changing and will still be carried out face to face with a trained IELTS Examiner.

4. Isn’t the test easier if I can type faster on a computer?

No, as the test will be the same as paper-based IELTS in terms of content, scoring, level of difficulty and question types. The Speaking test is not changing and will still be carried out face to face with a trained IELTS Examiner.

5. I think I need special arrangements for me to take IELTS. Can I still sit the computer-delivered test?

Test takers with special requirements are encouraged to contact their test centre to assess their requirements to discuss if the computer-delivered testis suitable. We have a number of options available to support special requirements through our paper-based format, so speak to your to find the option that best suits you.

6. Can I bring my own laptop/keyboard?

No. There is no need to bring your own keyboard or laptop as all equipment is provided by the test centre and no other equipment is permitted.

7. Will there be more IELTS sessions available now with the introduction of computer-delivered tests?

Increased frequency and availability of IELTS will be introduced throughout 2018.

Please check with your local IELTS test centre for more detailed information.

8. Is computer-delivered IELTS available on demand?

Computer-delivered IELTS is not available on demand at present. Registration for computer-delivered IELTS is the same as for paper-based IELTS.

9. Is computer-delivered IELTS more widely available than other computer tests?

Please view the test date and location detailsfor more information on test availability.

10. How do I prepare for the computer-delivered test?

Please view the familiarisation material available at IELTS.com, which provides a clear overview of the computer-delivered test and how it works.

There is also practice material available at IELTS.com. As the questions and tasks on the computer-delivered test are the same as for the paper-based test, the material is suitable for all test takers.

11. What are the practice materials available?

Please view the familiarisation material available at IELTS.com, which provides a clear overview of the computer-delivered test and how it works.

There is also practice material available at IELTS.com. As the questions and tasks on the computer-delivered test are the same as for the paper-based test, the material is suitable for all test takers.

12. How does computer-delivered IELTS compare to other computer tests?

With IELTS, test takers can feel confident they are sitting the world’s most popular high-stakes English language test for study, work and migration.

IELTS is trusted by 10,000 organisations worldwide for its fairness, reliability and high-quality standards. This remains true for both computer-delivered and paper-based tests.

13. Why isn’t IELTS fully computerised, like other computer tests?

With IELTS, you deal with real people. Face-to-face testing helps test takers develop English skills in the context which they’ll be used. The IELTS Speaking test is delivered through a trained Examiner, enabling real-life, two-way interaction, as in the real world.

14. Does computer-delivered IELTS mean I’ll get my results faster?

If you take the computer-delivered IELTS test then you will receive your results five to seven days after you complete the last section of your test.

15. Which is more expensive?

IELTS strives to offer the same test experience to all of its test takers regardless of where you take the test. Please verify the price for your chosen test session before you complete your registration.