FAQs for computer-delivered IELTS

Questions	Answers
General
Which test is best for me?	This comes down to your personal preference. Some test takers prefer paper-based exams as this might feel similar to other exam situations from school, whereas others might feel more comfortable typing answers. Information on both test formats is available here. Please contact your test centre if you would like to discuss either option.
Does the computer-delivered test cover the same content as a paper-based version?	The computer-delivered test will cover the Listening, Reading and Writing components. The test will be the same as the paper-based IELTS version in terms of content, scoring, level of difficulty and question types. The Speaking test will still be conducted by a certified IELTS examiner.
Is the test marked by a computer or by a person?	The IELTS Reading and Listening sections are marked automatically by the computer, while the Writing and Speaking sections continue to be graded by trained Examiners.
Is the computer-delivered test easier because it is marked by a computer?	There is no difference in the difficulty of the tests because the assessment criteria are the same for both the computer-delivered and paper-based IELTS.
Is the computer-based IELTS harder than the paper-based IELTS?	No, it isn’t. The computer-delivered test will cover the Listening, Reading and Writing components. The test will be the same as the paper-based IELTS version in terms of content, scoring, level of difficulty and question types. The Speaking test will still be conducted by a certified IELTS examiner.
I heard that in the TOEFL test, the speaking session is conducted with the help of a computer. Is the computer-delivered IELTS speaking test done in the same way?	No, it isn’t. The IELTS Speaking test is conducted by a certified Examiner, enabling real-life, two-way interaction. The Speaking test will remain face-to-face, as we believe it is the most effective way of assessing speaking skills and encourages more realistic performance from test takers. Provision
Provision of special requirements
I think I need special arrangements for me to take IELTS. Can I still sit the computer-delivered test?	We have a number of options available to support special requirements through our paper-based format. Test takers with special requirements are encouraged to contact their local British Council office to assess their needs and discuss if the computer-delivered test is suitable.
Can I bring my own laptop or keyboard?	No, unfortunately not. There is no need to bring your own keyboard or laptop as all equipment is provided by the test centre. No other equipment is permitted.
Test availability
Will there be more IELTS sessions available now with the introduction of computer-delivered tests?	Initially there will be a maximum of one computer-delivered IELTS session available per day in a limited number of test centres. Increased frequency and availability of IELTS will be introduced throughout 2018. Please check with your local IELTS test centre or here for more detailed information.
Is the computer-delivered IELTS available on demand?	The computer-delivered IELTS is not available on demand at present. Registration for the computer-delivered IELTS follows the same procedure as the paper-based IELTS.
Is the computer-delivered IELTS more widely available than PTE and/or TOEFL IBT?	Please view the test date and location details here for more information on test availability.
Test preparation
What practice materials are available?	Please view the materials available here, which provides a clear overview of the computer-delivered test and how it works. There are also practice materials available here. As the questions and tasks on the computer-delivered test are the same as the paper-based test, this material is suitable for all test takers.
Test comparison
How does the computer-delivered IELTS compare to PTE and/or TOEFL IBT?	With IELTS, test takers can feel confident they are sitting the world’s most popular high-stakes English language test for study, work and migration. IELTS is trusted by 11,000 organisations worldwide for its fairness, reliability and high-quality standards. This remains the case for both computer-delivered and paper-based tests.
Why isn’t IELTS fully computerised, like PTE and TOEFL?	With IELTS, you deal with real people. Face-to-face testing helps test takers develop English skills in the context in which they’ll be used. The IELTS Speaking test is delivered by a certified examiner, enabling real-life, two-way interaction.
Test results
Does the computer-delivered IELTS mean I’ll get my results sooner?	If you take the computer-delivered IELTS test then you will receive your results five to seven days after you complete the last section of your test.
Price
Which test is more expensive?	IELTS strives to offer the same test experience to all of its test takers regardless of where he/she takes the test. Please verify the price for your chosen test session before you complete your registration.