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IELTS on paper

With IELTS, you can choose how you want to take your test - on paper or on computer. If you're more comfortable writing instead of typing, IELTS on paper is the test for you.

You can take IELTS Academic test and General Training test on paper. The contents, test part times, question types, scoring and results of the paper-based test are the exact same as the computer-delivered test, but your test day experience is a little different. Test day staff will hand you booklets and answer sheets before each test and will then collect these booklets and answer sheets, before moving on to the next test part.

What to expect on the test day?

If you take IELTS on paper, you will complete the Writing, Reading and Listening parts on paper. You can use an HB-pencil to complete your Writing test and write your Listening and Reading answers on the answer sheet.

For IELTS on paper the Writing, Reading, and Listening tests are all completed on the same day with no breaks between each test. The Speaking test is completed in a face-to-face interview with an IELTS examiner, and this can be done one week before or after your test date.

IELTS on Paper - What's the difference?

Delivery format

  • You will complete the Reading, Listening and Writing parts of the test on paper, and the Speaking part face-to-face with an IELTS examiner.

  • You will be given 10 minutes at the end of the Listening section to transfer your answers to the answer sheet.

Test day

  • The obvious difference is that in the paper tests you answer with a pencil, while in the computer test you type.

  • For each part of the test, staff will hand you booklets and answer sheets, and collect these afterwards, before moving on to the next module of the test.

Results

  • Results will be available 13 days after taking your test.

Availability

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