Today, more and more people are choosing to take IELTS on computer. Our research shows that many candidates prefer this option because it offers:
- Faster results: Typically receive your results in 1-2 days
- Faster booking: Book your test as late as one day before registration closes
- More test dates: More choice and flexibility for you
- One Skill Retake: Retake just one skill, not the whole test, if you need to improve your score
Therefore, from mid-2026, all IELTS tests will be delivered on computer. IELTS on paper will no longer be available. Exact timelines will vary by market.
Writing on paper
In some locations, we will introduce a Writing on Paper option. This allows you to write your answers for the Writing component of the test on paper, if you prefer handwriting. The Listening and Reading components will still be taken on computer, so you can continue to benefit from faster results and other features of IELTS on computer. Our research shows that Writing on Paper helps some candidates feel more confident, and it does not affect the scores they achieve.
The test itself is not changing
These updates do not change the test itself. The following will stay the same:
- the test format
- question types
- scoring and assessment
- recognition of IELTS by universities, governments and organisations worldwide
Access arrangements
Our Access Arrangements will continue and are not affected by these changes. This includes support such as:
- large print
- braille
- lip-reading support for hearing-impaired candidates
- One Skill Retake for candidates using Access Arrangements
Previous IELTS results
If you have already taken IELTS on paper, your results remain valid for the normal two-year period.