IELTS Paper Based vs Computer Based exam

IELTS paper based vs computer based

Due to its undeniable popularity and global acceptance, the IELTS has opened the option of IELTS computer-based test along with the IELTS paper-based test leaving the hard task on the test taker to decide one between the two. In this article we will discuss the difference between IELTS paper based vs computer based

But as we know: 

“Sometimes options can confuse you to the point where you no longer are in the state to decide one between the two.”

Here in this particular article, we are going to compare the IELTS paper-based and IELTS Computer-based which will eventually clear your mind to choose the best for you.

But before we move ahead let’s get a brief introduction to the IELTS test. IELTS paper based vs computer based

IELTS paper based vs computer based – What is the IELTS test? 

IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is a widely accepted English proficiency test across the globe. IELTS paper based vs computer based

This IELTS test is usually taken by the candidates who either dream to study and work or to migrate in the English speaking countries where this test is needed as sole evidence of their linguistic skills.

This was first conducted in the year 1989, since then it is perfectly managed and conducted by British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia and Cambridge English Language Assessment

Types of IELTS test

Depending upon the purpose of interest to take the IELTS test, the exam is further categorized into IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training. 

1.IELTS Academic Test 

This exam is suitable for students who want to pursue a bachelor or postgraduate degree programme or the ones who are seeking professional registration in the UK. IELTS paper based vs computer based

10 things to remember for IELTS listening

2. IELTS General Training 

This exam is taken by ones who are either planning to study, work or train in an English native land like Australia, Canada, New Zealand or the U.K.

In this exam, you will be evaluated on the basis of everyday usage of the language with the content of questions focussed on workplace and social situations.

ELTS paper based vs computer based

Though the purpose to intake both the types, is different but two of them evaluates on the basis of four testing skills.

IELTS: Test of four skills 

Being a task-based exam, IELTS not only evaluates your listening or reading skills but also writing and speaking skills too.

So, from above, we have concluded that we are going to be evaluated on the basis of four IELTS Modules 

• IELTS Listening Module
• IELTS Reading Module
• IELTS Writing Module
• IELTS Speaking Module

This IELTS test is available on 48 fixed dates per year.

Though for the whole 30 years, IELTS test is only available in paper-based now it is also available as IELTS computer-based test. IELTS paper based vs computer based

Besides the fact that many people still prefer paper-based IELTS test over online mode. But the IELTS computer-based test is available in:

1. Australia
2. China (Guangzhou)
3. Hong Kong
4. India (Delhi)
5. Korea (Seoul)
6. New Zealand
7. Pakistan (Islamabad, Karachi, Lahore)
8. Philippines (Manila)
9. Russia (Moscow)
10. Saudi Arabia (Riyadh)
11. Singapore
12. Sri Lanka (Colombo)
13. Thailand (Bangkok)
14. Turkey (Istanbul, Ankara)
15. United Arab Emirates  (Abu Dhabi, Dubai)
16. Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City)

After knowing where the IELTS computer-based test offer, let’s discuss the grounds on which IELTS paper-based and IELTS computer-based distinguish.

Difference between IELTS paper-based test and IELTS Computer-based

On the basis of location

In case of both the test, whether it is IELTS paper-based or IELTS computer based you have to appear for both in-person in a predestined location allocated to you.

Paper-Based IELTS test 

The only difference you can encounter between the two is IELTS paper-based takes place at a larger venue usually comprises of 100-150 students while the IELTS Computer-based takes place at a smaller venue with one candidate per computer.

On the basis of timings & format

For both the test IELTS paper-based and IELTS computer-based, the timings are usually the same.

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But what differs between the two is the form, in paper-based IELTS test Reading & writing is given by the means of pen and paper.

While in the computer-based IELTS test you use the computer desktop to answer the questions.

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IELTS paper based vs computer based – On the basis of assessment

The assessment part is so different in both the types, in the computer-based IELTS test, the test is saved in the computer itself and is directly uploaded to Cambridge server.

Whereas in the paper-based IELTS test, the answer sheets are collected in person by the examiner, which are then sent to the Cambridge marking facility, which apparently takes more time than the former.

Now as we already discussed the differences let’s discuss what advantages does computer-based IELTS test has over paper-based IELTS test.

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Advantages of Computer-based IELTS test over paper-based IELTS test

The privilege of edit & rewrite

• In a computer-based IELTS test, the writing task is comparatively easy, as you are allowed and capable to both rewrite and edit the sentences whereas in the paper-based IELTS test, once you have written the final version there is no way that you can change it.

In the computer-based IELTS test, you even get more time to proofread it in the end.

Countdown clock

• The other advantage is that in the computer-based IELTS test, you are warned about the running time from the countdown clock on the desktop itself, whereas in paper-based you sometimes do the exam while forgetting the time scenario.

Result timings 

Yes, in the computer-based test you get your result out within 13 days only whereas in paper-based it takes up to 4-6 weeks.

Facility of headphones

• In the paper-based IELTS test, in the listening test, audio is played on the speaker which usually creates the issue of clarity whereas, in the computer-based test, every candidate is provided with a pair of headphones which helps the candidate to listen clear audio.

So, above we have seen some grounds of differences between the paper-based IELTS test and computer-based IELTS test, but both of the tests are similar in the test format and timings.

Along with this, we have also seen how computer-based IELTS test is more favourable than the paper-based but the last thing is that matters is your convenience, that what makes you more comfortable.

Unless and until, you are satisfied with the type, no pen or paper or desktop that matters more.

Hope every doubt of yours have been cleared from the above read. Unless feeling free to shoot your doubts and don’t forget to share your queries and your experience with us.

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