IELTS
Paper-Based vs
Computer-Based
IELTS Paper-Based vs Computer-Based
The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is one of the standardised English proficiency tests that all universities in the world accept. It is scored in a 9-band scale, and is one of the oft-chosen tests by international students.
If you have been preparing to get a good score on the IELTS test, this is something you should know about. There are two ways to take the IELTS test; paper-based and computer-based. The computer-based test was introduced in 2017 in Australia and was later extended to other parts of the world. Now that you know that there are two ways of taking the test, it is essential to know which is better; paper-based or computer-based. Well, it is not an easy question to answer, but we have managed to include everything you need to know to take a wise decision.
IELTS Paper-Based vs Computer-Based: Introduction
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For a paper-based test, you will be required to write the answers on paper. For a computer-based test, you must type the answers on the screen in a box provided against each question. Additionally, you will be provided paper and a pen/pencil for the computer-based test.
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Both tests will start with the Listening section, followed by the Reading and Writing sections. The Speaking test will be held separately on the same day, before or after the others.
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In the paper-based test, the candidate can write the answers while they hear the recording in the Listening section. They can also transfer the answers to the answer sheet in the last 10 minutes of the section. For a computer-based test, the candidate can type the answer after each question, and there will be time between the sections, with no extra time after the questions in the Listening section are completed.
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A computer-based test will be conducted in offices or other similar setups where each candidate will have a separate small room. A paper-based test will be conducted in larger, open spaces like educational institutions, hotels etc.
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The candidates who take the computer-based test will be given a computer in good condition with noise-cancelling headphones, especially for the Listening section.
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The computer-based test allows the candidate to get the word count, which is especially helpful in the Writing section. Additionally, the noise-cancellation headphones during the Listening sections ensure clarity.
Difference: IELTS Paper-Based vs Computer-Based
When you take the IELTS General or Academic Test, you can choose whether to take the paper-based test or the computer-based test. There are a few respects in which both paper-based and computer-based IELTS testing differ. We have given a table below in which we have detailed the differences between the two of them on a few parameters.
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Basis |
Paper-Based |
Computer-Based |
|
Test availability |
Tests are conducted 48 days per year, on Thursdays and Saturdays |
Tests are conducted3 times a day on all 7 days of the week |
|
Mode of booking |
Candidate should click on the paper icon while booking for IELTS |
Candidate should choose the computer icon while booking for IELTS |
|
Result |
Results will be out after 13 days of taking the test |
Results will be out after 3-5 days of taking the test |
IELTS Paper-Based vs Computer-Based: Which Is Better?
Both the paper-based and computer-based IELTS tests differ only in a few respects, and you can choose the one that best suits you based on the above information. You can also contact AECC’s counsellors for expert guidance. We offer one-to-one assistance to clear all your doubts for free!
IELTS Paper-Based vs Computer-Based
If you have computer-based skills, a moderately good typing speed, and are comfortable typing, it is better to take the IELTS computer-based test. However, several students have regarded computer-based tests to be a better option.
