What is an IELTS Computer-based Test?
As the name suggests, Computer-delivered IELTS is taken on a computer at a designated IELTS test centre. You cannot take computer-delivered IELTS from home.
Ask yourself these questions before you decide:
- How comfortable are you with typing on computers?
- Do you prefer typing over writing on paper? Which option is the most efficient for you?
- Is it easy for you to consume written information on a digital screen? Or do you prepare it on paper?
The IELTS Computer-based test follows the same structure and syllabus as the paper-based IELTS test. You will attempt the Reading, Writing, and Listening modules on the computer. The IELTS Speaking test, as usual, is conducted in a 1-on-1 interview.
There are slight changes in the duration of the Listening module; here’s what you should know:
- The duration of the IELTS Listening test is 30-36 minutes
- You are given a couple of minutes to go through the questions before you start the test
- You are also given a couple of minutes to review your answers
The fee for the IELTS computer-based test remains the same as paper-based tests and is as follows:
Type of IELTS Computer Based Test | Revised Fees 2024 |
| IELTS Academic & General Training | INR 17,000 |
| IELTS UKVI | INR 17,250 |
| IELTS Life Skills (A1 and B1) | INR 16,050 |
IELTS test centres have modern technology to provide the best computer-delivered test experience. For instance, you will receive high-quality noise-cancelling headphones during the listening test.
New Features for IELTS Computer-Based Test
IDP IELTS India has released the following new features for the IELTS computer-based test! Take a look:
Compared with the paper-based test, these features make it 10x easier to save time and improve efficiency during their IELTS test. This is one of the many advantages of taking the IELTS in a computer-delivered format.
Let’s explore the advantages.
Advantages of IELTS Computer-Based Test
Here are the top benefits of IELTS on the computer before deciding which mode to opt for.
Availability & Flexibility
The IELTS Computer-based test is available seven days a week and thrice daily (morning, afternoon, and evening)! You can schedule the test according to what time works best for you.
Also, most test centres have the option for computer-delivered tests.
Typically, the slots are as follows:
Slot 1 | 09:00 am to 12:00 pm |
Slot 2 | 01:00 pm to 04:00 pm |
Slot 3 | 05:00 pm to 08:00 pm |
Find the upcoming IELTS schedule here.
Quicker Results
The best thing about taking the IELTS computer-based test is that you get your results much faster, typically within 3-5 days. This is way quicker than the 10-14 days you have to wait for results from the paper-based test.
Ideal Test Conditions
IELTS on the computer is conducted in a quiet environment, providing you with the opportunity to think thoroughly and concentrate while you write. You will also have high-tech gadgets, such as noise-cancelling earphones, to help you focus.
No More Worrying About Handwriting!
Ensuring legible handwriting in the rush of completing an exam is not easy! But with computer-delivered IELTS, you can say goodbye to all your handwriting woes. By typing your answer, you can solely focus on acing your responses without anxiety about scribbling your way to completion.
Prepare with IELTS Computer-Based Practice Tests
There are plenty of IELTS Computer-Based practice tests available online. You can attempt them at home to determine if the computer mode suits you. Plus, they make a perfect addition to your study plan!
It’s easy to familiarise yourself with the details of computer-delivered tests as so many resources are available online.
