IELTS on Computer or on Paper: the choice is yours!
Today, you can choose to take IELTS on a Computer or on Paper; both options are equally accepted, scored in the same way, and conducted under secure conditions.
Please note: in both formats, the IELTS Speaking test is always conducted live, either face-to-face or via video call, with a certified IELTS examiner. This ensures an accurate, fair, and human assessment of your English communication skills.
Choose your format and show your best self in IELTS!
IELTS on Computer
The computer-delivered IELTS gives you a modern, flexible, and stress-free test experience.
You’ll complete the Listening, Reading, and Writing sections on a computer at an authorised British Council centre, with an intuitive interface that includes a timer and word count.
Smaller, quieter rooms with quality headphones make the test more comfortable and distraction-free.
Best of all, you’ll get results fast — usually in just 2 to 5 days! Plus, with multiple sessions available daily, up to seven days a week, you can book your exam when it suits you.
If you’re confident with a keyboard and want faster results, IELTS on computer is your perfect choice.
IELTS on Paper
The paper-based IELTS keeps the traditional format.
Candidates complete Listening, Reading, and Writing by hand using a black ballpoint pen provided by the centre (personal stationery is not allowed).
Printed booklets and separate answer sheets are used for each section.
You’ll have 10 extra minutes after Listening to transfer answers, and results are released within 13 days.
Usually offered on weekends, this format is ideal if you prefer reading on paper and writing by hand.
What stays the same across both formats
Whichever format you choose, it’s the same IELTS test — with identical content, criteria, and scoring by certified examiners. Results from both paper-based and computer-delivered IELTS are equally valid and recognized by institutions, employers, and government authorities across Canada.
The Speaking test also remains the same: a live, real-time conversation with a certified examiner, ensuring a fair and natural evaluation of your English.
What’s included in the four sections of the IELTS Canada?
IELTS Speaking Section
The Speaking test is always one-on-one with a certified examiner, either face-to-face or via secure video call. It lasts 11–14 minutes and has three parts.
IELTS Writing Section
The Writing section lasts about 60 minutes and includes two tasks. Learn more about them here.
IELTS Reading Section
The Reading section lasts about 60 minutes with 40 questions based on the texts. Learn more about what to expect here.
IELTS Listening Section
The Listening section lasts about 30 minutes with 40 questions divided evenly across four sections.
Take your IELTS test on paper or on a computer
Test takers now have the option of sitting their IELTS test on paper or on a computer with British Council. The IELTS test format is exactly the same on the computer as it is in a traditional paper exam. Both tests include the same content and are still completed with a test centre, but the Reading, Writing and Listening sections are just filled out differently. The Speaking section of the test will still be carried out face to face with an examiner.
If you’re confident with a keyboard and want faster results, IELTS on computer is your perfect choice.
What are the advantages of booking IELTS on computer?
IELTS on computer is available up to three times a day, seven days a week. So, there is much more choice when it comes to finding a test date that suits you.
Your test results also come back much quicker when you take your IELTS test on a computer, usually around 3–5 days. It typically takes around 13 days if you took your IELTS test on paper.