Learn more about taking IELTS on computer in a test centre or online at home.
IELTS on Computer (with Writing on Paper)
With our computer-based (writing on paper) IELTS test, you will take the Listening and Reading sections on a computer. For the Writing section, you will see the questions on screen and write your answers by hand on an IELTS Writing Answer Sheet.
What is IELTS on Computer (writing on paper)?
IELTS on computer with writing on paper is taken at an official test centre. 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.
Your Speaking test is a live conversation with an examiner, either face-to-face or via video call. You will also take this at a test centre, but it may be on a different day.
Our computer-based IELTS test offers a simple and straightforward test experience, with a number of features to help you move through the test with ease:
- Easy-to-use interface with adjustable font sizes, colours and volume control
- On-screen timer so you can manage your time effectively
- Note-taking tools so you can capture important details
- Highlight/underline functions to focus on important information
- Easy navigation between questions so you can move forward and back as many times as you need
Why take IELTS on Computer (writing on paper)?
Our computer-based IELTS test offers a traditional approach, which can feel like a more familiar exam experience for some test takers:
Familiar test-day environment
A common exam room environment to put you at ease on test day
Intuitive note-taking
Annotate and highlight key facts, figures and words in a question booklet
Tech-free experience
Avoid exam day anxiety caused by fear of technical issues
Book IELTS on Computer with the British Council
Ready to book your computer-based (writing on paper) IELTS test? Once you’ve chosen the right test, find a convenient test date near you and complete your booking. Take the next step towards your goals with the British Council.
IELTS on paper: FAQs
Test takers can cross out incorrect answers and re-write it inside the designated answer box. Marks are not deducted for making corrections. The test content and assessment criteria remain the same. A response which has overrun the box, will be marked.
The IELTS test takes about 2 hours and 45 mins: Listening (30 minutes), Reading (60 minutes), Writing (60 minutes) and Speaking (11-14 minutes).
We use strict security measures and standardised procedures to ensure test integrity and fairness.
[OPT] For IELTS Online, the examiner or remote proctor will ask you to show them your room, desk and equipment with your mobile device.
The British Council no longer offers IELTS on paper. IELTS is now available on computer with the option to write the "Writing" portion of the test on paper, giving you the flexibility to complete your test digitally with the comfort of the familiar handwriting format for the "Writing" section.
No, you are required to use pens instead of pencils when taking IELTS on computer (writing on paper). The staff at the test centre will provide black ink pens for you to use. No other stationery is allowed inside the test room.
Related Pages
Take IELTS digitally on computer at a test centre with the British Council
Discover IELTS online, our remote English language test.