When you take IELTS, you can apply for opportunities to work or study in English speaking countries. When you book the world’s most trusted English test with us, you can choose to write on computer or paper.
Although the questions in IELTS on Computer and IELTS on Paper are exactly the same, it helps to understand the difference between formats.
Test result time
When you take IELTS on Computer, you can preview your results on our Test Taker Portal within 1 to 2 calendar days. If you’re on a tight deadline to provide IELTS test results to a university or company, the computer-delivered option is ideal.
IELTS on Paper results can be previewed on our Test Taker Portal after 13 calendar days.
Achieving your IELTS band score
The IELTS test consists of Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking Sections. If you didn’t perform as well as you’d hoped to in one Section, you can retake just that Section with One Skill Retake. This option is only available for IELTS on Computer test takers.
Test date availability
There are more test dates and sessions available for IELTS on Computer than there are for IELTS on Paper in a typical month. If you are on a busy schedule and need to make a last-minute booking, you will find more options with IELTS on Computer.
When you register for IELTS with the British Council, you only need to secure your booking four calendar days in advance. Find our available test dates here.
Preparation material
Whether you take IELTS on Computer or IELTS on Paper with the British Council, you will get free access to IELTS Ready Premium. Our most comprehensive preparation course is worth $60 and covers everything you need to get your desired IELTS band score.
Test day experience
When you take IELTS on Computer, you can edit your answers before you submit them. The word count tool on the screen helps to ensure that you don’t write too little or too much. You can also make use of the handy highlighter and notes tools on the computer. If you are concerned about writing legibly, the computer-delivered test ensures that your answers will be clear.
Those who take IELTS on Paper will be given a black pen to complete the test. Pencils are no longer offered as they can hinder the effectiveness of scanning test sheets. Be sure about how you want to structure your answer when you take IELTS on Paper.
Fast track your IELTS journey and book IELTS on Computer with us today.