Computer-delivered IELTS

The computer-delivered IELTS test allows candidates to take the listening, reading and writing test using a computer . All aspects of the test are identical to paper-based including contents, question types, timings and marking. The speaking test is still a one-on-one conversation with an examiner.

Advantages and disadvantages of the computer-delivered IELTS

Advantages: Candidates find it easy to write or type their answers if they are reasonably good at typing. The relatively larger size screen provided is very useful for reading. The dates for computer-delivered tests are more available than the paper-based tests and the candidates can get results in 5 days. These features make the computer-delivered IELTS test more desirable for certain candidates.

Disadvantages: Candidates with a poor typing skill may find the computer-delivered test daunting. Screen will get locked exactly at the mentioned time and the timer will not display seconds in the last one minute. So the candidates do not know when the screen will get locked.

Computer-Delivered Listening Test

The positive aspect of the listening part of the computer-delivered test is that the candidates’ ability to highlight the text and the working ca

pacity of the tab key to move from one part to another. However, a candidate needs to be able to listen and type simultaneously and has only 2 minutes to check answers rather than 10 minutes as in Paper-based IELTS. Therefore, students must get familiarized with the page look and feel on computer-delivered exams for each question type.

Computer-Delivered Reading Test

The best part of the computer-delivered test is that a candidate can have a passage on the left-hand side and the questions on the right-hand side. It is really easy and convenient to read
and answer the questions. Candidates can highlight the text and increase the font size. Another advantage for the reading exam is that candidates can copy and paste from the passage which reduces the chances of typos. Students are strongly advised to get used to scrolling up and down long articles to become accustomed to reading passages and navigating them on a screen.

Computer-Delivered Writing Test

The good thing about the computer-delivered test is that the candidates do not need to count their words. The computer will do their word count. It is easy to edit writing as candidates can cut, copy and paste. The bad thing is that a candidate can unintentionally make typo errors. Students are strongly advised to speed up their typing and become used to wring on a screen.