Ways to take IELTS
You can take IELTS your way in the UK, with options to take IELTS on computer at a test centre or choose IELTS on computer with Writing on Paper where available. The British Council no longer offers the fully paper-based IELTS test. Take a look at the differences between IELTS on computer and IELTS on computer with Writing on Paper.
What are the different ways to take IELTS in the UK?
At the British Council, booking an IELTS test is quick and convenient. Depending on your location, you can choose IELTS on computer or IELTS on computer with Writing on Paper where available. The British Council no longer offers the fully paper-based IELTS test.
Fast-track your future with faster results
Take the test via computer at an official test centre in the UK. Questions for the Listening, Reading and Writing sections will be given on-screen and you’ll input your answers directly onto the computer. Your Speaking test will be live with an examiner. Results typically arrive within 2 days.
For a preference for pen and paper
IELTS on computer with Writing on Paper is taken at an official test centre in the UK. You will sit at a computer desk and work your way through the Listening and Reading sections. For the Writing sections of the test, you will see questions on screen and write your answers by hand on an IELTS Writing Answer Sheet.
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How do the different options compare?
While the format and questions are the same for IELTS on computer and IELTS on computer (writing on paper), some features of the test vary. Take a look at the table below comparing different IELTS test modes in the UK to decide which test is right for you.
| IELTS on computer | IELTS on computer (writing on paper) | |
|---|---|---|
| Total test time | 2 hrs, 45 mins | 2 hrs, 45 mins |
| Location | Official test centre | Official test centre |
| Writing section | Written on a computer | Written by hand on paper |
Take IELTS with confidence with the British Council
However you choose to take your IELTS test, take it with confidence at the British Council. With clear instructions, friendly staff, and a quiet test environment, we’re here to help you succeed. Check available IELTS test modes and dates in your location through the booking portal.
Taking the IELTS test: FAQs
IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is a test of your English skills for study, work or living abroad.
You can take your IELTS test on computer or on paper at one of our official test centres. Availability of different modes is dependent on your location.
IELTS on computer: Take all test sections except Speaking on a computer at a test venue.
IELTS on paper: Handwrite all sections - except Speaking - in a booklet at a test venue.
In some countries and territories, you can take IELTS Online at home with the right equipment. This option is not available for IELTS for UKVI tests. Go to our IELTS online page to find out where this test is available.
The British Council offers IELTS Academic (opens in a new tab), IELTS General Training (opens in a new tab), IELTS for UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) (opens in a new tab) and IELTS for UKVI Life Skills (opens in a new tab). See Which test should I take? (opens in a new tab) to learn which test is right for your purposes.
You can take your IELTS test at one of over 1,600 locations in more than 140 countries. This may be at a British Council test centre or at one of our hundreds of partner sites around the world. Visit our booking portal to check availability at your local test centre.
IELTS for UKVI tests must be taken at a UK Home Office-approved IELTS for UKVI location.
IELTS Online
IELTS Online lets you take your IELTS test from home or another quiet, private space. You complete the Listening, Reading and Writing sections on a computer, and your Speaking test takes place live via video call with an IELTS examiner.
IELTS Online is currently available in only a limited number of countries. Make sure to check availability in your country before you book.
