The main difference between the computer-based and paper-based IELTS tests is how applicants take them. In contrast to the computer-based IELTS exam, the paper-based examination has identical organization, question forms, and time limits. Only on test day will you notice the difference.
If you choose, you may take the IELTS Listening, Reading, and Writing parts on paper. The speaking test is still given in person by qualified assessors. The IELTS paper-based and computer-based tests are different, as this article will explain.
How are on-computer and paper-based IELTS examinations administered?
The IELTS paper-based test gives students an answer sheet and a pen or pencil to record their responses in the allotted time. Computer-based IELTS requires replies to be typed in screen-displayed spaces.
Both paper-based and computer-based IELTS hearing, reading, and writing assessments are taken in one day without breaks. The speaking section might end one week before or after the test.
After the auditory phase, candidates have 10 minutes to submit their IELTS pen and paper answers to the official answer document. All replies are input concurrently in computer-delivered format. After completing, you have two minutes to evaluate your answers.
Centrally located hotels, academic institutions, and other sites host IELTS exams. To reduce distractions and improve performance, noise-canceling headphones are sometimes provided.
Pros and cons of the IELTS computer-based examination
Pros
Aspirants get personalized headphones for the auditory assessment. Adjust the volume to hear clearly.
Reading tests split the screen to display the text and questions concurrently. Individual scrolling on each side makes the paragraph easier to read and understand, while answering questions side by side reduces page turning.
In the writing assignment, candidates may easily copy, transfer, erase, or change paragraphs without crossing them off, unlike the IELTS paper style. Seeing the word count on screen saves time while writing.
IELTS computer-based exams do not influence penmanship.
Cons
After the hearing exam, candidates will have less time to review. Students use this time to check their spelling to avoid deductions.
Candidates must balance typing or writing responses and listening, a difficult process.
Digital reading is harder than paper reading.
Candidates with less computer typing expertise may operate slower.
Keypad typing noise disturbs writing exams.
Pros and cons of the IELTS paper-based examination
Pros
Candidates may use diagrams to write writing section paragraphs.
Emphasizing and highlighting are allowed in paper-based IELTS tests but not in computer-based ones.
Students will have 10 minutes to submit their answers on the answer sheet without typos after the listening phase.
This test is great for those who lack basic computer literacy and typing skills.
Cons
Crossing out or rubbing out words makes rewriting replies difficult.
Exam pressure, word counts during composition, and handwriting quality issues are challenging.
In crowded exam rooms, attention is impaired.
Which Format ?
Despite the evident difference between the IELTS paper-based and computer-based tests, you will notice it on test day. IELTS computer-based exam applicants should be computer-savvy, type well, and value confidentiality. The IELTS writing-based exam style may be easier for those who like writing and practicing on paper.