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Content Curator | Updated On - Apr 1, 2024
IELTS computer based test is very similar to the paper-based test in terms of its modules - listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Computer delivered IELTS differs from paper-based tests in terms of its delivery mode, as you have to converse with the test interface of the computer, instead of a pen and paper. IELTS computer based tests for the listening, writing, and reading tests are done on a computer, whereas the speaking test is done face to face with the interviewer.
IELTS computer based test results are delivered within 3–5 days after the date of the test taken. The speaking test can be taken up to one week after or before the test date in any of the formats. The IELTS exam pattern for the IELTS computer based test is the same as the IELTS paper-delivered tests. Computer based IELTS practice test allows you enough flexibility about the test dates to choose from, it's easy navigation. Computer based IELTS also has few drawbacks like it can be difficult for you if you are not familiar with the techniques, can face technical issues like connectivity issues.
IELTS computer based test is done for both IELTS academic and general training. For IELTS computer based test, you can book the test any time as you are given countless options. You can choose from 1-3 time slots per day, with nearly 30 test dates every month. The speaking test, for the PBT, can be seven days after or before the test day. But for the CBT, you can take the speaking test on the same day itself. IELTS computer test based practice papers can serve as a good way to know the IELTS computer delivered test rules and regulations.
Advantages and Disadvantages of IELTS Computer Based test
IELTS exam computer based has some merits and demerits it allows you to choose from multiple IELTS exam dates, you will get your results within 3–5 days from the date of the test taken, and the availability of noise-canceling headphones for the listening tests, which is why computer delivered IELTS is preferred by more people than going for the traditional form of writing the exams. However, those who find typing difficult or are more expressive when writing by hand, prefer the Paper-based IELTS. The list of the advantages and disadvantages is given in detail below:
Advantages
- Flexible timing - IELTS computer based gives you the freedom to choose from multiple test dates per month and flexible time slots throughout the day, which will be convenient for you to choose a suitable date and time for the exam.
- Easy Navigation - The test allows you to navigate between different questions within each section to review and revise your answers.
- Improved listening experience - In the listening test, you are provided with noise-canceling headphones to avoid any distractions and provide a better audio experience to answer your questions.
- Writing efficiency - Computer delivered IELTS does the job of counting the words for you in your writing and reading sections, saving you a lot of time.
- Instant results - IELTS computer based test results are published within 3-5 days from the date of the test taken. Hence, it is one of the main reasons people prefer CBT more than PBT.
Disadvantages
- Technical challenge - You may encounter many technical problems while taking the computer based IELTS like issues of internet connectivity, computer freezes, or other software malfunctions which will delay the duration of the test and can cause panic.
- Limited availability - While the Computer based IELTS offers many flexibilities, not many of the test centers have the infrastructure of the required facility to hold the computer delivered IELTS. Some of the cities that conduct IELTS computer based tests are Kolkata, Delhi, Bangalore, Hyderabad, etc.
- Screen fatigue - For some of you, spending too much time in front of the computer screen can be tedious can tire your eyes easily, and can cause fatigue. Hence, they prepare the Paper-based test.
- Less familiarity - Some of you might need to become more familiar with the technologies related to the computer based test. It requires some technical knowledge to acquire with the IELTS computer based test, and you can feel less confident about it.
IELTS CBT vs PBT
IELTS exam computer based does offer more prospects in terms of its delivery of the tests. Both of test formats of IELTS general and Academic are the same. However, you cannot ignore the significance of the age-old practice of writing the exam on pen and paper. The table below draws a comparison between the IELTS computer delivered and the paper-delivered tests -
| Points | Computer-based test | Paper-based test |
| Test format | Four sections - listening, reading, writing, and speaking | Four sections - listening, reading, writing, and speaking |
| Delivery Process | Questions are presented on the computer and answers are written directly on the screen. | Questions are given in a booklet and answers are written using a pen and paper. |
| Listening section | Listen to audio clips using noise-canceling headphones | Audios are played by the examiner |
| Reading section | Scroll through passages and questions on the screen | Read and answer passages from the booklet |
| Writing section | Type answers directly on the computer | write the answers on a booklet |
| Speaking section | Held face-to-face with the examiner on the first day itself | Held face-to-face with the examiner five days before or after the test day. |
| flexibility | More test dates available | Limited test dates |
| Delivery of results | Within 3-5 days from the date of the test taken | Take much longer to publish your IELTS scores and reports |
| Tools | Highlighting, underlining, word count check | No such tools are available |
| familiarity | Easy for candidates comfortable with technology | The traditional format is preferred by some. |
| Writing experience | Typing is convenient as you can easily edit using cut, copy, or paste or by clicking backspace. | May be preferred by more as natural |
Tips to Familiarize with the IELTS computer-based test
Preparing for the IELTS test computer based requires some level of practice to be well-versed in the technicalities of the computer delivered test. To head start your IELTS preparation, IELTS computer based practice test online free are available on many websites. IDP IELTS computer test offers many practice papers for you to solve those. This will help you to know the dos and don'ts of the test. Other than that, below are some of the tips that you can follow :
- Familiarize yourself with the test interface - First, you need to spend time familiarizing yourself with the test interface by solving practice tests and IELTS sample papers.
- Managing your time practicing time management by using a timer in each section t increase your pace of writing by availing IELTS practice test computer based.
- Learn to use digital tools - you should know the basic tools while typing your answers on the screen, like highlighting the important lines in the reading sections and underlining them.
- Develop typing skills - if you are someone who is not accustomed to typing fast, you must practice increasing your speed and accuracy, for the writing section. You should try typing at least one paragraph per day of 200 words in 15 minutes to master your skills.
By following these tips and dedicating sufficient time and effort to your preparation, you can enhance your skills for the computer-based IELTS. Depending upon your feasibility, you choose your mode of IELTS examination.
FAQs
Ques: What exactly is the IELTS computer-based test (CBT)?
Ans: The IELTS computer-based test (CBT) is an alternative to the traditional pen-and-paper format.
Ques: How does the computer-based test differ from the paper-based test?
Ans: The computer-based test follows the same structure as the paper-based one but involves interacting with the test on a computer screen rather than using paper and pen.
Ques: Where can I go to take the IELTS computer-based test?
Ans: You can find the IELTS computer-based test at specific test centers worldwide. Check the official IELTS website or get in touch with your local test center for more details.
Ques: What are some of the benefits of opting for the computer-based test?
Ans: The computer-based test offers advantages such as more flexibility in test dates, and quick delivery of results.
Ques: Is the content of the computer-based test the same as the paper-based one?
Ans: Both tests cover the same material and evaluate the same skills: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.
Ques: Do I need to be super tech-savvy to take the computer-based test?
Ans: You need to have a basic computer knowledge. However, test centers usually guide to help you to get familiar with the test interface.
Ques: How do I sign up for the computer-based test?
Ans: You can register for the computer-based test online through the official IELTS website or by reaching out to your local test center.
Ques: Can I switch between the computer-based and paper-based formats?
Ans: Once you've registered for a specific format, you cannot switch back to other test modes.
Ques: How long does the computer-based test take?
Ans: The whole test takes around 2 hours and 45 minutes, covering the Listening, Reading, and Writing sections. The speaking part is done separately and lasts about 11–14 minutes.
Ques: Do I need to bring anything to the test center for the computer-based test?
Ans: You have to bring your valid passport ID to the test center on the day of the test.
Ques: Are there any breaks during the computer-based test?
Ans: There's a short break between the Reading and Writing sections.
Ques: How are the Listening and Speaking sections conducted in the computer-based test?
Ans: For listening, you'll listen to audio clips through headphones provided at the test center. Speaking is done face-to-face with an examiner, usually on the same day.
Ques: Can I go back and review my answers during the computer-based test?
Ans: You can review and change your answers within the time limit for each section in the computer-based test.
Ques: When can I expect to receive my scores after taking the computer-based test?
Ans: You will get your scores within 3–5 days from the date of the test day in the computer-delivered test.
Ques: Are there any differences in scoring between the computer-based and paper-based tests?
Ans: The scoring process is the same for both formats. Scores are based on a band scale from 0 to 9, with each section scored individually.
*The article might have information for the previous academic years, please refer the official website of the exam.