The IELTS computer testing came up in 2017 and Australia was the one that started this. Knowing the comparison between the two is vital.
Your IELTS, your choice! Choose the test at your convenience to unlock your future abroad. Register now as per the locations that work for you. The IELTS computer based vs paper based tests are almost the same but choosing one is based on your personal preferences. Now you will be thinking, almost the same in which manner? So, let’s clear up this perplexity. Here we are talking about the question type, test format, and level of difficulty in the above-said statement. Different test score achievement in both tests depends on your confidence level and preparation strategy. Apart from this, the unique skills you have and your test day experience will decide your band score. Keep scrolling to get into the details of both the tests and their differences. These are the most important facts that everyone must know before starting the IELTS preparation.
Slot availability:-The CD-IELTS (Computer-delivered IELTS) is more flexible and you can give it any time you want. It is available up to seven days a week. In contrast, IELTS on paper testing is up to 48 hours for e.g. Thursday and Saturday. Be relaxed, do your preparation well, and book your slot at least 15-20 days before by choosing the icon.
Location of the test centers:- The main difference between paper-based and computer tests is location-allocation to you. In paper-based IELTS you need to be physically present whereas CD IELTS requires very less space and resources to take the test. Due to fewer bookings as compared to paper-based, these centers are less crowded with better concentration and fewer distractions.
Pencil or keyboard:- In IELTS on paper you will get a pencil to write all the answers before the time is out. Whereas Computer-based IELTS provides corresponding space to write answers on the computer screen but still you will get a pen or pencil to prepare some notes. But this has the little disadvantage that if you are not familiar with normal typing skills then it will make a loss to your scores.
But nowadays technological advancements are rising day by day and every individual is familiar with them.
Time Allocation:- The test format and order are almost the same but in CD IELTS the listening test is shorter in comparison to paper-based IELTS. In IELTS on paper, you will have 10 minutes extra time to transfer your answers on the sheet but in computer-based tests, you need to respond at the same time and you will not give any extra benefit of time to transfer the answers. It is difficult for those who need extra time to check answers and spelling.
“But there is a navigation bar at the bottom to check the answers that have missed out”.
Assessment calculation:- Assessment of the exam is one of the major parts in both the test formats. In computer-delivered IELTS answers are directly transferred or uploaded to Cambridge marking facility whereas in paper-based tests all the formalities are done by the examiner itself.
Results:- The CD IELTS result will be declared within 3-5 days and it is very beneficial to your quick process in the VISA application. This result is accepted by so many organizations throughout the world. Whereas paper-based IELTS consumes a minimum of 12-15 days to declare the results.
If you are still in any confusion about choosing the IELTS computer based vs paper based? No worries, we are here to help you! But make sure you will be familiar with both paper-based and computer-based tests before trying the real one. So what are you thinking? Come and join western overseas to boost your IELTS band.