IELTS on computer vs IELTS on paper: Which is Better?
International English Language Testing System ( IELTS )
IELTS or International English Language Testing System is an English language proficiency exam for students who are willing to study abroad. Over 3 million people take the IELTS exam every year, and around 11,000 universities and employers accept the exam. The IELTS exam is conducted through two modes i.e. IELTS on Computer and IELTS on Paper. Students can apply for any of the modes, as there is no such big difference between them.
The IELTS exam is available to candidates in a computer-based format and a paper-based format. Test-takers who opt for the IELTS computer-based test take the Listening, Writing, and Reading sections on a computer. Whereas, the Speaking test is conducted face-to-face with a trained examiner. With the Computer-based IELTS, one gets more test dates to choose from and gets results in 2 days. Test-takers who opt for the IELTS paper-based test will take the Reading, Writing, and Listening sections on paper with either HB pencils or a pen. Whereas, the Speaking test is conducted face-to-face with a professional IELTS examiner.
Predict your IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE in just 4 steps!
The major changes in IELTS computer vs IELTS on paper are the order of the test is different and the Listening test is shorter. Also, candidates will get headphones for the IELTS Listening test. The IELTS Speaking test will be same for both the test modes.
Q: Is university of West of Scotland good for international students?
Q: What rank is Wolverhampton University in UK?
The University of Wolverhampton is one of the best universities in the United Kingdom. The university is consistently ranked among the best universities nationally and globally. For nearly 200 years, the University of Wolverhampton has been consistently providing a quality of education to students and producing highly skilled graduates. The national rankings of the University of Wolverhampton are given below:
| Ranking Body | Ranking |
|---|---|
| The Guardian University Guide 2024 | #101 |
| The Complete University Guide 2024 | #117 |
Q: Does the University of Essex require IELTS?
International students whose native language is not English must meet the University of Essex English language requirements to get admission. The university accepts IELTS scores as proof of English language proficiency. Mentioned below are the IELTS scores required for UG and PG admission at the university:
English Language Test | Score |
|---|---|
IELTS | Overall score of 5.5 to 8.0 with minimum of 5.5 to 7.5 in each section |
The university also accepts the score of other English language tests such as TOEFL and PTE for admission to undergraduate and graduate programs:
English Language Test | Score |
TOEFL iBT | Overall score of 72 to 114 |
PTE | Overall score of 59 to 84 with minimum of 59 to 80 in each section |
Also read: Required IELTS Score for UK Universities
Q: How can I get admission in the University of Manchester?
The application process at the University of Manchester may vary depending on the course and level of study. However, here is the application process for UG and PG courses:
The Undergraduate Application Process:
Step 1: You can apply through the UCAS common application portal.
Step 2: Go to the website and select the course you are interested in.
Step 3: Ensure you meet the Entry requirements (Academic qualifications, English proficiency, etc.
Step 4: Once you decide on the course, submit documents such as SOP, Transcripts and personal statements.
Check out: tips to improve your SOP.
Step 5: You can track the application's progress through your given credentials by UCAS.
Step 6: Once the applicant submits the application to UCAS, it forwards to the University, and the admission teams carefully analyse the application document.
Step 7: The university will send you an offer letter once selected. Hence keep checking your UCAS portal for your application status.
The Postgraduate application process:
Step 1: Select the postgraduate course you are interested in from the University of Manchester.\
Step 2: Ensure you meet the entry requirements for the chosen program, as they vary depending on the course.
Step 3: Complete the online application by providing your personal information.
Step 4: Upload the required documents, such as Academic transcripts and proof of English language proficiency ( TOEFL/ IELTS). experience in your fields and references (depending on the course). You also may require Two LORs depending on the course.
To make your admission better, check out the following: How Admission Officers Evaluate your application.
Step 5: If your application is successful, you will receive an offer from the University of Manchester.
Q: Is Hertfordshire University hard to get into?
With a 70% acceptance rate, the University of Hertfordshire is not hard to get into and follows easy selection criteria during admissions. This does not mean the university accepts all the students applying for different programs. The selection is based on academic performance, English language requirements, references, and many more. Some of the programs at Hertfordshire even demand an experience of 4-5 years. Students must fulfill the eligibility criteria to enroll in any programme at Hertfordshire University. In addition, students with average performance can showcase their relevant experience or extracurricular activities participation to increase their selection probability.
Q: How much IELTS score is required for Hertfordshire University?
International students coming from diverse backgrounds must prove their English language proficiency by submitting the scores of IELTS, PTE, and Duolingo at Hertfordshire University. The university demands an IELTS score of 6 from the students. Along with the IELTS scores, students can refer to the table below for all the required English proficiency score:
English language test | Minimum Score required UG | Minimum Score required PG |
|---|---|---|
6 or above | 6 or above | |
59 or above | 58 or above | |
105 or above | 120 or above |
Q: What is University of Wales, Trinity Saint famous for?
University of Wales, Trinity Saint (UWTSD) was founded in 2010, is a public institution for higher education and research at multiple locations. It was set up under the 1828 royal charter of Lampeter, the institution was the result of the merger between Trinity University College and the University of Wales. The institution merged with the Swansea Metropolitan University in 2013.
- Top Ranked University: The UWTSD is not ranked by any major ranking body, however as per the university ranking given on the official website of the university, it is ranked among:
- #1st in Wales and UK Top 5 Film Production and Photography
- #1st in Wales and UK Top 5 Fashion and Textiles
- #1st in Wales and UK Top 20 Graphic Design
- #1st in Wales and UK Top 5 Education
- #1st in Wales and UK Top 20 Sports Science
- #1st in Wales and UK Top 20 Mechanical Engineering
- #1st in Wales for Fine Arts
- Variety of Courses: UWTSD offers more than 300 programs at various levels including undergraduate, postgraduate degrees as well as multiple online courses.
- Highly distinguished and learned faculties: the faculty at UWTSD is highly learned and distinguished which enables students to be the best in their field of study.
- High Placements: According to Graduate Outcome data 2019-2020 quoted by the UWTSD, more than 95% of its graduates were found to be employed within 15 Months of graduation. The average salary of a graduate is not explicitly released by UWTSD, however, as per some unofficial sources the average salary of the graduates of UWTSD is approximately INR 30-35L. with the highest salary being reported as high as INR 66.5L for jobs in Financial Services.
Q: What is the ranking of NTU UK in terms of employability?
According to Uni Compare rankings 2024, NTU has been placed at #1 in the UK for employability. In addition to this, as per the details available on the web, some of the top companies where NTU UK alumni work are Deloitte, Microsoft, Tesco, Turner & Townsend, The Access Group, etc. Some of the industries where the alumni work are Operations, Business Development, Arts and Design, Sales, Marketing, IT, Engineering, Finance, Media & Communication, etc.
IELTS on computer vs IELTS on paper: Highlights
Below we have some basic comparisons between IELTS on computer and IELTS on paper. So, let’s check them before applying for the exam:
|
|
IELTS on Computer |
IELTS on Paper |
|---|---|---|
| Delivery format |
Complete the test parts using a computer and the Speaking test face-to-face with an IELTS examiner |
Complete the test parts on paper and the Speaking part face-to-face with an IELTS examiner |
| Results |
Results will be available 2 days after taking your test |
Results will be available 13 days after taking your test |
| Apply |
Apply for the test through the computer icon. |
Apply for the test through the paper icon. |
| Test availability |
Testing up to 7 days a week and 3 times a day |
Testing up to 7 days a week and 3 times a day |
IELTS on Computer
In the Computer-based IELTS Test, students will have the Reading, Listening, and Writing sections on a computer. The Speaking test is held in face-to-face method with IELTS examiners. The examination is completed on the same day for both paper and computer-based formats. The Speaking section may be completed up to one week after or prior to the other tests.
- Smaller rooms or venues enable better concentration.
- Results are obtained more quickly within 5-7 days.
- The word count is visible on the screen.
- Students get individual headphones for the Listening section.
- The timer is visible on the screen, which turns red when the candidate has 10 and 5 minutes remaining for the Reading and Writing tests, respectively.
- No handwriting quality problem.
- The edit option is available on the screen.
- A Navigation bar is available that shows the progress at the bottom and tracks answers that they have missed out.
- Students can manage their time and go forward/backward as per their wishes.
- Their answers will be automatically saved, meaning they need not keep saving or pressing Enter.
- Students can change any answer at any time without any hassles.
IELTS on Paper
In the Paper-based IELTS Test, students will have to answer the Reading, Listening, and Writing sections on the examination paper itself. Speaking tests in this case will be carried out with a trained IELTS examiner through a face-to-face interview.
- Many students will appreciate the ability to write and draw, particularly in the Writing section.
- Students can quickly circle, underline and practice words before writing them on the answer sheet.
- No basic computer skills are required as the test is on paper.
- Students do not need to type answers, which will not slow down their speed.
- The candidate will get an extra 10 minutes at the end of the Listening section to transfer their solutions to the answer sheet.
Major Differences Between IELTS on Paper and IELTS on Computer
When it comes to taking the IELTS exam, there are two formats to choose from: IELTS on paper and IELTS on computer. Each format has its own structure and flow, which can affect your test experience.
Test Order
In the paper-based IELTS, the order of the sections is different. You start with the Writing section, then move on to Reading, and finally take the Listening test. Sometimes, you may have your Speaking test right after these sections, but at some test centers, it might be scheduled for a different day. On the other hand, the computer-based IELTS begins with the Listening section, followed by Reading, and ends with Writing. The Speaking test is conducted on the same day as your computer exam, either before or after it.
Listening Test Duration
Another key difference is in the Listening test. If you've taken the paper-based test before, you might remember that you write your answers in the question booklet while listening to the recording. After the Listening section, you get 10 minutes to transfer your answers to an answer sheet.In contrast, during the computer-based test, you type your answers directly into designated spaces on the screen. While you do have some time between sections to review your answers, there’s no extra time at the end for transferring answers since you’ve already completed them as you went along.
Also, Read
Is it better to take IELTS paper based or computer?
Choosing between IELTS paper based or computer often comes down to personal preference. IELTS on computer offers faster results—typically within 2 to 5 days—and greater flexibility in scheduling, as tests are available multiple times a day. It also allows for easier editing of written responses since you can cut, copy, and paste text. However, it requires good typing skills and may be distracting due to background noise from other test-takers typing.
On the other hand, IELTS on paper provides a familiar environment for those who prefer traditional writing methods. Many candidates find it easier to concentrate when writing by hand rather than typing on a screen. The paper format also allows for more time to review answers after the Listening section.
FAQs
Q. What is the difference between paper and computer-based IELTS?
Q. In which month IELTS exam is easy?
Q. Is 6.5 A good score in IELTS?
Q. Which age is the best for IELTS Exam?
Q. How many bands need to study in Canada?
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The University of the West of Scotland has five modern and diverse campuses in United Kingdom. The University has welcomed more than 3,000 international students which are representing 1/3 of the globe. They also have 130 European partners who are actively in global study and exchange options through the Commonwealth universities programmes. The University also offers study abroad opportunities for UWS who are eligible for the same and also have more than 20 transnational education partners worldwide which helps them deliver UWS Bachelors and Masters Degrees around the world.