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Ways to take IELTS

You will be offered a choice of different ways to sit your IELTS test at different test centres, and in some
cases, remotely online. Today IELTS can be attempted either on Paper or the computer.

All tests must be taken at an official IELTS test centre, where your ID and overall elements of the test are considered.

IELTS in a test centre

You have the choice to take your test on paper or on a computer. There is no difference in the test questions, or format, only the way you complete your answers.

IELTS on computer

You can attend an official IELTS test centre and sit your test on a computer. Questions for the Listening, Reading, and Writing sections are shown on the screen and you enter your answers on the computer. The Speaking section is completed during a face-to-face session with a trained IELTS examiner.

Results

Results for IELTS on computer are available 1–5 days after test completion.

IELTS on paper

If you opt to take the test on paper you will sit at a desk with question-and-answer papers for the Listening, Reading, and Writing sections of your test. The Speaking section of the test is conducted by a trained IELTS examiner.

Results

Results for IELTS on computer are available 13-14 days after test completion.

IELTS Online

More and more countries are now offering IELTS Online. This is available for the IELTS Academic test only and one can avail the test at home or a suitable private location with a stable internet connection. There is no difference in the format, question type, timing, and marking criteria as completing the IELTS at a test centre.

The Speaking section of the test is completed in an online video call with a trained IELTS examiner. Receiving organisations can decide whether they are happy to accept results from IELTS Academic tests that are taken online or not. The Test Report Form will indicate if you have completed your test online.

Results

Results for IELTS on computer are available 1–5 days after test completion.

Practice tests

Find out more about IELTS Online and experience some free sample tests yourself.