IELTS Computer Delivered vs Paper-Based: Which Format Should You Choose?
Since the introduction of computer-delivered IELTS, test-takers now have a genuine choice in how they sit the exam. But which format is right for you? This comprehensive guide compares every aspect of both formats to help you decide.
Key Fact: The test content, difficulty, and scoring are identical in both formats. The only differences are the delivery method, results speed, and test availability.
Understanding the Two Formats
IELTS is now available in two delivery formats:
- Paper-based IELTS — The traditional format. You read from printed question papers and write your answers on paper answer sheets using a pencil.
- Computer-delivered IELTS (CDI) — You complete the Listening, Reading, and Writing sections on a desktop computer at a test centre. You type your Writing answers and click/type your Reading and Listening answers.
Important: In both formats, the Speaking test is conducted face-to-face with a human examiner. It is never done on a computer.
Complete Comparison Table
| Feature | Computer Delivered | Paper Based |
|---|---|---|
| Test content | Identical questions, same difficulty | |
| Scoring criteria | Identical band descriptors and marking | |
| Results time | 3–5 days | 13 calendar days |
| Test availability | Multiple sessions per week (often daily) | Up to 4 times per month (fixed dates) |
| Speaking test | Face-to-face with examiner (same day or separate day) | |
| Listening delivery | Through headphones (individual volume control) | Through room speakers |
| Listening transfer time | No transfer time — answers entered directly | 10 minutes to transfer answers to answer sheet |
| Reading format | Split screen: passage on left, questions on right | Question booklet and answer sheet (separate) |
| Writing method | Keyboard typing with word counter | Handwriting with pencil |
| Editing text | Easy: cut, copy, paste, delete | Erasing and rewriting (time-consuming) |
| Word count | Automatic on-screen word counter | Manual counting |
| Highlighting | On-screen highlighting and notes tool | Underline/circle on the question paper |
| Timer | On-screen countdown timer | Clock on the wall, announced by invigilator |
| Test cost | Usually the same (check your local centre) | |
| Accepted by | All IELTS-accepting organisations worldwide | |
| UKVI approved | Yes (at SELT centres) | Yes (at SELT centres) |
| One Skill Retake | Available (where offered) | Generally not available |
Listening: What Changes on Computer
The Listening section is where many test-takers notice the biggest practical difference.
Computer Delivered
- Audio is delivered through individual headphones — you control your own volume
- No background noise from other candidates or room acoustics issues
- You type or click answers directly as you listen
- No 10-minute transfer time at the end — you enter answers in real time
- A 2-minute review period is given at the end instead
Paper Based
- Audio plays through speakers in the examination room
- You write answers on the question paper first, then transfer to the answer sheet
- 10 minutes transfer time at the end to copy answers onto the official answer sheet
- Some candidates find the transfer time useful for checking and correcting answers
Key Consideration: If you rely on the 10-minute transfer time to double-check your Listening answers, the computer format removes this buffer. Practise entering answers directly during the recording.
Reading: Screen vs Paper
The Reading section presents the same texts and questions but in different physical formats.
Computer Delivered
- Split-screen display: reading passage on the left, questions on the right
- Highlight text and make notes using on-screen tools
- Scroll through the passage (no page turning)
- Easy to navigate between questions with clickable question numbers
- Can flag questions to review later
Paper Based
- Physical question booklet you can flip through
- Write directly on the question paper (underline, circle, annotate)
- Some people find it easier to scan a full printed page than to scroll on screen
- Must transfer answers to a separate answer sheet
Writing: Typing vs Handwriting
This is often the deciding factor for many test-takers. The Writing section changes significantly in practical terms.
Advantages of Typing (Computer)
- Speed: Most people type faster than they write by hand
- Editing: Easy to cut, copy, paste, and rearrange paragraphs
- Legibility: No handwriting issues — examiners read typed text
- Word count: Automatic and always visible on screen
- Corrections: Delete and retype instantly (no messy crossing-out)
Advantages of Handwriting (Paper)
- Familiarity: If you have always practised by hand, this feels natural
- Planning: You can sketch outlines and diagrams directly on the question paper
- No tech anxiety: No concerns about computer issues or unfamiliar interface
- Spatial awareness: Some people find it easier to plan structure on paper
Typing speed matters. If you can type 40+ words per minute comfortably, computer-delivered is almost certainly better for Writing. If you are a slow typist or unfamiliar with QWERTY keyboards, paper may be safer.
For Writing strategies regardless of format, see our IELTS Writing Task 2 tips guide.
Results Speed: The Biggest Advantage
For many test-takers, results speed is the primary reason to choose computer-delivered IELTS.
| Format | Results Available | How Delivered |
|---|---|---|
| Computer Delivered | 3–5 days after the test | Online first, then TRF posted |
| Paper Based | 13 calendar days after the test | Online first, then TRF posted |
If you have a tight application deadline, this 8-10 day difference could be significant. Computer-delivered also tends to have more frequent test dates, making it easier to schedule a convenient sitting.
Test Availability and Booking
Computer Delivered
- Available at British Council and IDP centres worldwide
- Multiple sessions per week (often daily in major cities)
- Morning and afternoon sessions available
- Growing availability but not yet everywhere (check your area)
Paper Based
- Available at all test centres globally
- Fixed test dates (up to 4 per month)
- Available in some locations where computer delivery is not yet offered
- Long-established — all test centres are experienced with this format
Who Should Choose Computer Delivered?
- Fast typists who are comfortable with QWERTY keyboards
- People who need results quickly for upcoming deadlines
- Those who prefer headphones for the Listening section (no room noise)
- People who edit their writing frequently (the ease of revising text is a major advantage)
- Those familiar with on-screen reading and comfortable with digital formats
- Candidates who want access to the One Skill Retake option
Who Should Choose Paper Based?
- Slow typists or those unfamiliar with computer keyboards
- People who have always practised on paper and feel comfortable with it
- Those who rely on the 10-minute Listening transfer time to review answers
- Candidates who find it easier to read and annotate physical text
- People in locations where computer-delivered IELTS is not available
- Those who experience computer anxiety or are not confident with technology
What to Expect on Test Day
Computer-Delivered Test Centre
- Individual workstation with desktop computer and headphones
- Strict security: lockers for personal belongings, ID verification
- You may be offered noise-cancelling headphones or earplugs
- Scratch paper (notepad) is provided for planning
- The interface includes a tutorial before the test starts
- Speaking test may be on the same day or a different day
Paper-Based Test Centre
- Examination hall with desks, similar to a school exam
- Pencils and erasers provided (or bring your own HB pencils)
- Speakers for Listening section (room-wide audio)
- Invigilators monitor the room and announce time
- Speaking test is usually on a different day (within a week)
How to Prepare for Each Format
Preparing for Computer Delivered
- Practise typing regularly. Aim for at least 40 words per minute on a QWERTY keyboard.
- Do practice tests on a computer. Simulate the on-screen experience by reading passages and answering questions digitally.
- Practise without the Listening transfer time. Enter answers as you hear them.
- Familiarise yourself with the interface. British Council and IDP offer free demo tests online.
- Practise on-screen reading. Build comfort with scrolling through long passages.
Preparing for Paper Based
- Write by hand regularly. Build speed and legibility. Examiners need to read your handwriting clearly.
- Practise transferring Listening answers within the 10-minute window.
- Use timed conditions. Simulate exam-hall conditions with printed practice tests.
- Practise annotating texts. Develop efficient underlining and note-taking techniques.
Access practice materials in our Practice Tests section and use our Speaking Timer for Speaking preparation.
Common Myths Debunked
| Myth | Reality |
|---|---|
| "Computer IELTS is easier" | False. The content and scoring are identical. Only the delivery method differs. |
| "Universities prefer one format" | False. The TRF does not indicate the delivery format. All institutions accept both equally. |
| "Speaking is also on computer" | False. Speaking is always face-to-face with a human examiner, regardless of format. |
| "Computer IELTS has spell-check" | False. There is no spell-check, autocorrect, or grammar-check. You must check your own spelling. |
| "You need advanced computer skills" | False. Basic typing and mouse skills are sufficient. The interface is straightforward. |
Frequently Asked Questions
No. The questions, difficulty, and scoring criteria are identical. The only difference is the delivery method. Some people find typing easier; others prefer handwriting. Choose based on your personal comfort.
Typically within 3-5 days. Paper-based results take 13 calendar days. This is one of the biggest advantages of the computer-delivered format.
No. The Speaking test is always conducted face-to-face with a trained IELTS examiner, regardless of whether you take the computer-delivered or paper-based test.
Yes, all institutions that accept IELTS accept both formats equally. The Test Report Form does not specify whether the test was taken on computer or paper.
Yes. Computer-delivered IELTS for UKVI is available at approved SELT centres. Both Academic and General Training UKVI are offered in computer-delivered format. See our UK visa guide for details.
The Verdict
There is no objectively "better" format. The right choice depends on your personal strengths and circumstances:
Choose Computer If...
- You type quickly and accurately
- You need fast results
- You want more test date options
- You prefer editing text digitally
- You want individual headphones for Listening
Choose Paper If...
- You write faster by hand
- You rely on the Listening transfer time
- You are not comfortable with computers
- You prefer reading from physical pages
- Computer delivery is unavailable in your area
Whichever format you choose, thorough preparation is what determines your score. Use our study plans and free resources to build a structured preparation plan.