Take IELTS on
computer

Computer-delivered IELTS

For almost 30 years, IELTS has been a paper-based English test that people have used to achieve their work, study and migration dreams. But you asked for more choice – and we’ve listened. Meet computer-delivered IELTS: the same IELTS test you know, delivered via computer.

IELTS Reviews

Test takers at IDP found the computer-delivered IELTS easier than paper-based IELTS. See what others say about IELTS.

computer delivered ielts test format

Computer-delivered IELTS test format

The IELTS test is offered in two formats, IELTS Academic and General Training. Unlike other providers, the IELTS General Training test is the only non-academic test available for migration to overseas. Now – you also have a choice of how you take your test.

If you choose to take the computer-delivered IELTS test, you will take the Listening, Reading and Writing components using a computer. All aspects of the test are identical to the paper-based IELTS test, including:

  • Question types
  • Content
  • Timings*
  • Marking

*In the computer-delivered Listening test, the timings are slightly different from the paper-based test. This is because the paper-based test requires test takers to transfer answers to an answer sheet. This step is no longer required 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 long.

Computer-delivered IELTS test format

Want to know the best news of all? The IELTS Speaking test is the same as always – face-to-face, in a quiet room, with a real, human examiner. We believe a face-to-face Speaking test is the most effective way of assessing your speaking skills and prompts a more lifelike performance. Don’t struggle to be heard above a noisy test room, at IELTS we hear you loud and clear the first time.

Benefits of the IELTS Speaking test

  • Private Speaking test rooms, free from noise and distraction
  • We can repeat and rephrase a question for you
  • We can match your pace and level of English
  • We won’t ‘time out’ on you
  • We hear your accent
cmputer delivered ielts speaking test

Relaxing environment

Computer-delivered IELTS is offered at new, custom-built test locations. We provide you with noise-cancelling headphones for the listening test and have staff available during the test for assistance.

New features

  • Highlight text and make notes
  • Copy & paste directly from your text and notes
  • Browse forward and backward through your questions
  • Automatic word count for your Writing test
what to expect test day

Try computer-delivered IELTS online

Wondering what to expect when you take IELTS on computer? Watch the video to familiarize yourself with the test day experience and practice computer-delivered IELTS online.

Read the video transcript

Tests made me nervous. What can I expect on the test day? Don’t worry you’re not alone. It’s completely normal to feel nervous. So, there are no surprises on test day. Let’s talk through what you can expect. Firstly, make sure you plan your journey and get to the test location on time. If you arrive late, you may not be allowed to take the test. Make sure you’ve eaten a good breakfast. The listening, reading and writing tests take 2 hours and 40 minutes and there are no breaks between each part of the test. When you arrive, the IELTS staff will check your identity. Make sure you have the correct ID or passport with you. This would be whatever you use to book your test. Switch off your mobile phone and any other electronic devices. You’ll be asked to place these with your personal belongings in a safe place outside of the test room. Now, it’s time to enter.

The room will be set up just like any examination room. You are allowed to have your identification on your desk. Settle into your desk and try to relax. If you have any questions, raise your hand and simply ask the friendly test centre staff, they’re there to assist you. Once the test is started, take your time to read the instructions carefully. Don’t start writing until you’ve read the instructions. During the exam, keep an eye on the time, there will be a clock in the room. If you get stumped on questions, don’t waste too much time pondering. Skip to the next one and you can come back to it after. Make sure you do go back and attempt to answer every question. Points are not taken off for incorrect answers. So, give it a go. If you feel yourself becoming anxious or stressed, take a few deep breaths to calm down. Return to your test paper work calmly. Focus on the questions and you will do your best you can. Find more information on what to expect on test day on our website IELTSessentials.com

Ready to book your IELTS
test? Find your closest
IELTS test centre here

With 450+ IELTS test locations around the world,
it’s easy to find an IELTS test venue in a location
that suits you. Find your closest IELTS test centre
by entering your city. You can further narrow your
search using the filters or features that you need.
ellyot 588130 unsplash 1200x800 1200x800 1
Book Now