IELTS Computer Based Test vs Paper Based Test : Differences & Key Aspects

The main difference is, in the IELTS paper-based test the candidate writes the answers in the exam paper whereas, in the computer-based IELTS test, the candidate types the answers on the computer. While talking about the IELTS paper vs Computer based test, the test format, question types, and time allocations are similar.

If you prefer the IELTS paper-based test, you will take the Listening, Reading, and writing sections test in the examination paper instead of a computer. However, the speaking test is the same and is held face-to-face with expert examiners. In this article, you will learn the crucial points that talk about the IELTS paper vs Computer based test.

Table of Contents

• How are IELTS Paper Based and Computer based tests conducted?
• Comparison of IELTS paper based and computer based exams
• Advantages and disadvantages of Computer based IELTS test
• Advantages and disadvantages of Paper based IELTS test
• IELTS Pen and Paper vs computer based: Which is better
• IELTS Pen and Paper vs Computer based test- Frequently Asked Questions

How are IELTS Paper Based and Computer based tests conducted?

Whether you choose IELTS pen and paper-based or Computer based tests, you have to be physically present at your allotted registered location.

Let’s have a closer look at the key aspects:

• Candidates taking IELTS paper based test will be provided with an answer sheet and a pen or pencil to note down their responses within the allotted time frame. In Computer based IELTS, test takers have to answer on the computer screen in their respective boxes.
  
  
• For both the IELTS paper and computer based exam, all three sections listening, Reading and writing tests are completed on the same day with no interruptions or breaks. The speaking section might be completed prior to or after a week before your test date.
  
  
• In IELTS Pen and paper based format, the candidate will be provided with 10 minutes time to transfer all the answers to the official answer sheet at the end of the listening section. In computer delivered format, All your answers are typed simultaneously and at the end, 2 minutes time limit will be provided to scrutinize the answers typed.
  
  
• The IELTS test is conducted mostly at educational institutes, centrally located hotels etc. Noise-concealed headphones are also provided sometimes to avoid distractions and enable focus on self-performance.

Comparison of IELTS paper based and computer based exams

Here is a closer look at the key pointers that marks the difference between paper based and computer based IELTS test.

Advantages and disadvantages of Computer based IELTS test

The following are the advantages and disadvantages of the computer based IELTS exam.

Advantages of Computer based IELTS test

• The candidates are provided with individual headphones for the listening test. The volume can be adjusted and can hear clearly.
• In the reading test, the passage and the questions are displayed at the same time as the screen splits into two parts. Each side can be scrolled individually, this helps to clearly view and understand the passage, and questions side by side to answer correctly thereby avoiding page flipping.
• Unlike in IELTS paper mode, the candidates can copy, paste, delete, or edit their paragraphs in the writing task conveniently without crossing off. The screen shows the word count also, which saves your time in counting words in writing tasks.
• Handwriting quality does not pose any issues in Computer based IELTS tests.

Disadvantages of computer based IELTS test

• Candidates will get less time to check answers after the listening test ends. Because students use this time to check spelling to avoid losing marks due to misspelt answers.
• Candidates' attention is split between writing/typing answers and listening simultaneously which is tough and challenging.
• Reading on the screen is stressful and harder when compared to reading on paper.
• Candidates having less experience in computer typing might slow their work progress.
• Distractions while performing a writing test due to noise caused by keyboard typing.

Advantages and disadvantages of Paper based IELTS test

The following are the advantages and disadvantages of the paper based IELTS test.

Advantages of Paper based IELTS test

• In the writing section, candidates while writing the paragraphs can have a diagrammatic representation of the content.
• The standard methods like highlighting, underlining etc. are possible in paper based test but cannot be done in computer based IELTS examinations.
• The students will get an extra 10 minutes time at the end of the listening section to transfer their solutions to the answer sheet avoiding spelling mistakes.
• This mode of exam is highly beneficial for students who lack basic computer knowledge and typing skills.

Disadvantages of Paper based IELTS test

• Editing or changing answers is complicated as it involves crossing off or rubbing out texts.
• Maintaining exam time limits, counting words while writing, and handwriting quality issues are challenging and tough. 
• Examination halls with more students lead to focus distraction.

Practice Papers for IELTS exam

Try our IELTS practice samples given below to refine and strengthen your multitasking abilities. These practice tests are a perfect addition to your IELTS study plan to understand the pattern of the exam, develop strategic skills etc.

• IELTS Listening Practice test Pdf
• IELTS Academic Reading Practice test Pdf
• IELTS Speaking Mock tests
• IELTS writing task 2 topics
• IELTS writing task 1

IELTS computer based vs paper based: Which is better

Though the difference between IELTS paper based test and computer based test is quite apparent, you will feel it on your test day experience. The IELTS computer based test format is ideal for students having good computer knowledge, typing skills and value privacy. However, Candidates accustomed to practicing and writing on paper may prefer the IELTS writing based test format.

IELTS Computer based vs Paper based test- Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which is better pen and paper or computer based IELTS?

Both IELTS General training and Academic tests can be taken on Computer or paper based patterns. The content, test format, time allocated for each test part is same, the only variation lies in your test day experience. Students often feel computer based test is more manageable.

2. What is the difference between paper- based and computer based IELTS?

The IELTS paper based test will come with an answer sheet, provided with a pen or pencil for writing. The candidates have to write answers on this sheet within the stipulated time. In IELTS computer based test, students have to type answers in the corresponding boxes reflecting on the screen.

3. Is paper pen allowed in computer-based IELTS?

With IELTS on the computer, you will type answers in the corresponding boxes on your screen. You will still be provided with a pen or pencil and paper to make a note of important points.

4. Is pen or pencil better for IELTS paper based test?

Writing with pencil is recommended for IELTS listening, Reading and writing sections. This is because you can easily erase and rewrite your responses. If you forget to bring the pencil, the test centre will provide it for you.