Are you considering taking the IELTS exam? If so, you may have heard about the option to take it on a computer rather than the traditional paper-based format. In recent years, many test-takers have opted for the computer-based version of the IELTS exam due to its convenience and various benefits. In this blog post, we’ll explore why taking the IELTS on a computer might be the right choice for you.
What is IELTS on computer?
IELTS on computer is exactly the same test as IELTS on paper, but instead of writing your answers on paper, you will type them on a computer.
With IELTS on computer, you will now have more test dates and sessions to choose from – and your results will be available in 3-5 days.
How does IELTS on computer work?
If you select this option, you will take the Listening, Reading and Writing sections on a computer (headphones are provided in some venues), but the Speaking test will still be face-to-face with a trained IELTS Examiner as this is the most effective way to assess your speaking skills.
All other aspects of the test are exactly the same, whether it is taken on paper or on computer, including:
- content
- structure
- marking
- question types
- security
- Speaking test
- Test Report Form
- test timings*.
*In the Listening test on computer, the timings are slightly different from the Listening test on paper. This is because the paper-based test requires users to transfer answers to an answer sheet. This step becomes redundant when answering directly on a computer.
- Before the start of each part of the Listening test, you will have some time to read the questions.
- After the end of each part of the Listening test, you will have some time to review your answers.
- At the end of the Listening test, you will have 2 minutes to check your answers. The timing of the Listening test is between 30 – 34 minutes.
How is it different from IELTS on paper?
There are some minor differences. For example, in the paper-based IELTS Listening test, you have 10 minutes at the end to transfer your notes onto the answer paper. With the computer IELTS, you write your answers directly onto the screen as you go along. This means there is no extra time at the end.
The main difference is that you are working in a different medium: screen rather than paper. You probably did most of your school exams on paper. If that’s the case, you won’t be used to thinking and working on a computer in an exam setting. The change is inevitably going to be stressful unless you prepare properly for it and learn how to manage your stress. That’s why it’s important you get to know the different tools and functions available to you, like:
the highlight tool
making notes on screen
the navigation bar
copy and paste shortcuts
If you’re unsure about any of these, don’t worry! The easiest way to get familiar with them is through practice.
*Just so you know, you will receive your results electronically only if you have taken IELTS on computer. This is currently available in the following countries:
Albania, Argentina, Armenia, Austria, Botswana, Bulgaria, Canada, Cameroon, Croatia, Ethiopia, France, Georgia, Germany, Ghana, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Kenya, Lithuania, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritius, Mexico, Mozambique, Nepal, Nigeria, Occupied Palestinian Territories, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Romania, Rwanda, Senegal, Serbia, Sierra Leone, Slovakia, South Africa, Spain, Tanzania, Turkey, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
Try Essay King AI Essay Correction service and a world of Premium IELTS Material
Explore the All-In-One solution for your IELTS Writing today!
