Talk Icon

Practice 100+ speaking topics!

Star rating icon

4.2

1M+ Installs

Get App

leap-scholar-logo
hamburger-menu

IELTS Paper Based Test 2024

updated at

Updated on Sep 29, 2024, 14:55

IELTS is the most popular English proficiency test that is accepted by over 12,000 organisations around the world! 
 

IELTS is delivered in two convenient ways: On Computer and Paper. 
 

The IELTS paper-based test is the most popular test mode and has been running for 30 years.
 

Choosing between paper-based and computer-based IELTS tests is a common conflict. On this page, we’ll explore everything you need to know about IELTS paper-based tests so that you can make the right decision. Let’s dive in. 

On This Page

Arrow right
Slider image

1. What is an IELTS Paper-based Test?

As the name implies, the IELTS paper-based test is conducted with a traditional pen or pencil on paper. In this mode, IELTS will test 3 out of 4 modules (ReadingListeningWriting) on paper. The Speaking section remains common for paper and computer-based tests and will be conducted as a 1-on-1 interview. 

Slider image

2. Advantages of IELTS Paper-Based Test

Although digital test modes are on the rise, students prefer the traditional IELTS on-paper test for many reasons, mainly rooted in familiarity. 

More for you

Check your IELTS band in 10 mins!

Take Band Predictor Test arrow right
3/3
1.

What is an IELTS Paper-Based Test?

The IELTS paper-based test is 2 hours and 45 minutes long, just like the computer test.
 

If you’re debating between an IELTS Paper-based test and a computer-based test, here are a few things to consider: 

 

  • Are you okay with writing by hand for the duration of the exam?
  • Do you prefer writing on paper more than typing on a computer?
  • Will you be able to maintain clear and legible handwriting throughout the exam?
  • Do you prefer reading on paper rather than on a screen?

 

You can use a pen or HB pencil to write IELTS paper-based tests. The fee for IELTS paper-based tests is INR 17,000 for IELTS Academic and General Training tests, the same as for IELTS computer tests. Here is a complete breakdown. 

 

Type of IELTS (Paper-delivered test)

Revised fees 2024

IELTS Academic & General Training INR 17,000
IELTS UKVIINR 17,250
IELTS Life Skills (A1 and B1)INR 16,050

 

 

Note:

The paper-based test is available 48 times a year. The dates may vary depending on the test centre, but typically, they are conducted on Thursdays and Saturdays.

2.

Advantages of IELTS Paper-Based Test

Here are a few other top benefits of IELTS Paper-Based tests!

 

Familiarity

 

Most students are used to writing assessments on pen and paper, starting from pre-school. Due to this familiarity, writing on paper may seem easier than taking the test digitally. Familiarity with the test can help you feel at ease and relaxed during the exam! 

 

Accessibility 

 

Paper-based tests are best for those fully equipped to use technology. We must also consider preferences! Maybe you prefer reading paperback books to Kindle, just as some students prefer reading on paper to a computer screen. After all, looking at the computer screen for a long time can be tiring.
 

IELTS, on paper, provides equal opportunities for everyone despite technical difficulties or computer skills.

 

Say No to Technical Issues

 

Writing on paper means avoiding technical glitches like internet lag or screen freezing. Although IELTS test centres are well-equipped with the best technologies, it is good to consider all the possibilities. 

Additionally, your screen automatically locks during the computer test once you hit the dedicated time. This means it’s hard to make changes once the screen is locked. However, there’s no such rule in paper-based tests! 

 

Extra Time for Listening Section 

 

You have 10 minutes to transfer your answers from your notes, which is enough time to write and review them. In contrast, IELTS on the computer gives you only 2 minutes to transfer your answers. 

 

Availability 

 

IELTS on paper is available over 48 times a year and 4 times a month. These dates make it easy for you to schedule the test at your convenience. You can schedule the test as early as three months before and as late as one week before the test. 
 

Click here to find your nearest test centre! 

ielts logo

Get the IELTS Prep App

Star rating icon

4.2

1M+ Installs

app download banner image

Get the app link on your phone

+91

Or download app from

google play storeapp store

Next Up

IELTS Computer Based Test

Read Now Read now

IELTS Practice Test

Read Now Read now

IELTS Test Centres

Read Now Read now

IELTS Types

Read Now Read now

IELTS Modules

Read Now Read now

IELTS Important Information

IELTS Accepting Countries

IELTS Accepting Universities

IELTS Test Centre and Dates in India

FAQs

Q. What is the IELTS paper-based test?

A. The IELTS paper-based test is a traditional IELTS exam in which you must answer the questions in pen-and-paper format. It is the oldest of the two modes and has been conducted for almost 30 years. The IELTS paper-based test duration is 2 hours and 45 minutes long, priced at INR 17,000 (for Academic and General Training tests).

Q. How do I register for the IELTS paper-based test?

A. You can register for the IELTS paper-based test on the official website of IELTS IDP India. Here are the steps to follow: 

  • Sign up on the IELTS IDP India website
  • Choose a paper-based test as the mode
  • Choose the type of exam you want to take
  • Choose the dates and test centre
  • Pay the test fee and complete your registration
Q. What is the duration of the IELTS paper-based test?

A. The IELTS paper-based test duration is 2 hours and 45 minutes, plus 10 minutes of transfer time. The duration remains the same for both computer and paper-based tests. The full breakdown of each section is as follows: 
 

IELTS Sections

Duration of the test

Writing60 minutes
Reading60 minutes
Speaking11-14 minutes
Listening30 minutes + 10 minutes of transfer time
Q. Can I take notes during the IELTS paper-based test?

A. Yes. You can take notes during the IELTS paper-based test. You will be provided with a paper for note-taking, along with a pen/pencil. You can also take notes during the Speaking test to brainstorm. You can also jot down keywords and important points while listening to the audio in the Listening section. Taking notes is a good habit, and it has been claimed to help many students keep up with the test and avoid any significant confusion. 

Q. Is IELTS on paper easier?

A. No. Since IELTS on computer and paper have the same modules, score range, and scoring criteria, they have the same difficulty level. The level of difficulty may vary with your preferences. For instance, you may face hurdles during the IELTS computer test if you need more basic computer skills. In this context, IELTS on paper may be much easier for you.

Q. Can we write on paper in IELTS?

A. Yes, you can. IELTS is offered in two modes: On paper and computer. You can decide which mode you want to take based on your preferences and comfort level. The paper-based test is the oldest exam mode, which IELTS has used for over 30 years. If you’re comfortable writing on paper, compared to typing on the computer, you should pick the IELTS paper-based test.

Q. How is the IELTS paper-based test score calculated?

A. IELTS is scored on a scale of 0-9. There are four modules in IELTS: Reading, Speaking, Writing, and Listening. Each module gets a score between 0 and 9, then averaged and rounded to the nearest whole or half number. For example, if your score is 6.75, it will be rounded off to 7. If your score is 6.35, it will be rounded off to 6.5. IELTS uses the same scoring mechanisms for both paper-based and computer-based tests. 

Q. What are the Differences Between the Paper-Based and Computer-Based IELTS Tests?

A. The main difference is the medium of the exam. In paper-based tests, you write on paper, while computer-based tests require you to type on a computer. Apart from that, a computer-based test requires you to listen to recordings through headphones and write your answers on the question paper or an answer sheet. The speaking test remains common for both modes and will be done in a 1-on-1 interview format.

Q. Can I practice for the Paper-Based IELTS Test?

A. Yes, you can. Many websites allow you to download PDFs for IELTS paper-based tests. You can use these resources for IELTS paper-based test practice. Make sure you double-check where you get these resources from and only pick resources from the most credible sources, such as the official website. You can also find IELTS paper-based practice tests on our website. 

Q. What is the fee for an IELTS paper-based test?

A. The IELTS paper-based test fee was revised recently and is updated to INR 17,000 for both Academic and General versions. Here is a full breakdown of the same: 
 

Type of IELTS (Paper-delivered test)

IELTS Paper based test fee

IELTS Academic & General Training INR 17,000
IELTS UKVIINR 17,250
IELTS Life Skills (A1 and B1)INR 16,050
Q. Where Can I Take the Paper-Based IELTS Test?

A. You can register for the IELTS on paper test online and take the exam at a designated test centre. IELTS, on paper, is available around 48 times a year and at least 4 times a month. However, check the dates based on your location since it varies depending on the city.