IELTS on computer vs IELTS Online: Understand the difference
IELTS on computer was introduced in 2017, allowing you to take IELTS Academic or IELTS General Training on a computer, in a test-centre environment. With the launch of IELTS Online, you now also have the option to take IELTS Academic at home.
If you book IELTS on computer, make sure you are present at the test centre on the chosen date and time to take your test.
However, with IELTS Online you get to choose where you sit your test. All you need is a well-lit private room, a laptop or desktop computer with the right hardware and software and a stable internet connection. See how our products stack up using our comparison table below, scroll to the end of the table for the full list.
Feature | IELTS Online | IELTS on computer | IELTS on paper |
|---|---|---|---|
Covers all four English skills: listening, reading, writing and speaking | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Face-to-face Speaking test with an official IELTS Examiner | Yes (Online) | Yes | Yes |
Available for IELTS Academic test | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Available for IELTS General Training test | No | Yes | Yes |
Available for UKVI (UK Visa & Immigration) and other migration purposes | No | Yes | Yes |
Results within | 6 days after the test | 3-5 days after the test | 13 days after the test |
Safeguards results with multi-layered test security | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Globally accepted | Yes (Academic only - not for migration) | Yes | Yes |
Includes a Test Report Form for test takers | Yes (Electronic only) | Yes (Secure paper certificate by post) | Yes (Secure paper certificate by post) |
Listening and Reading tests marked electronically | Yes | Yes | No |
Writing and Speaking tests marked by official IELTS Examiners | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Globally available | Yes (in phases) | Yes | Yes |
Can be taken anywhere | Yes (in a private room with a stable internet connection) | No (must be taken in a test centre) | No (must be taken in a test centre) |
Headphones allowed? | No | Yes | Depending on test centre |
Support during your test | Chat and virtual support | Personal support | Personal support |
What kind of support can I expect during the test?
The support you receive when you take IELTS on computer is more personal as test centre staff will be on hand to assist you and answer any questions you may have. Your test will be offered in a custom-built test room so all you need to do is be present and test-ready.
Once you have booked the IELTS Online test you will be emailed information about how to carry out a pre-test system to check your laptop/computer. If you have a technical issue during your IELTS Online test, you will be supported by the support team via Live Chat. Alternatively, you can also contact them via email at ieltsonline@idp.com.
IELTS Online: FAQs
Is there any difference in the test format?
The test format, scoring, and timing of the IELTS Online test is the same as IELTS Academic on paper and computer taken in a test centre. The Listening, Reading, and Writing tests are delivered in the same way as IELTS on computer. The Speaking test is conducted online via video call with an IELTS Examiner
IELTS on computer vs IELTS Online: Which one to book?
It all comes down to personal preference and acceptance. Some people thrive in traditional test centre settings where they feel the controlled environment enables them to concentrate and perform better.
On the other hand, test takers who choose IELTS Online enjoy the comfort of not having to travel to the test centre and being able to create an environment that is more suitable for them.
It's also important to check the acceptance of the test with the organisation you are taking the test for. IELTS Online is currently accepted by some academic institutions. Please check with your institution before you book IELTS Online. If you need to take a language test for visa or migration purposes, you should choose IELTS on paper or IELTS on computer.
Make sure you consider all factors before choosing which test to book to maximise your chances of a high band score that will enable you to achieve your goals.
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