Computer-Based IELTS 2024

Computer-Based IELTS Test Details

Overview

The computer-based IELTS test provides greater flexibility with more frequent test dates compared to the traditional paper-based format. Here’s what you need to know:

• Test Structure: Listening, Reading, and Writing are conducted on the same day, without breaks between sections.
• Speaking Test: This is conducted face-to-face with a human examiner, either up to a week before or after the other sections.
• Timing: The total test duration is 2 hours and 45 minutes.

Unique Aspects

The computer-based format retains all the features of the paper-based test, including question types, scoring, and content. However, there’s one significant difference: the Listening test timing. Since there’s no need to transfer answers to an answer sheet, you’ll save time and streamline the process. Instead:

• You’ll get time to review your answers at the end of the Listening test.
• The Listening test lasts between 30–34 minutes.

Speaking Test

The Speaking test remains a face-to-face interaction with an examiner, which many candidates find more comfortable than speaking to a computer. Here’s why:

• The examiner can repeat or rephrase questions if needed.
• They can understand and accommodate your accent.
• They can better assess your strengths compared to a computer system.

Test Format

The structure, content, level of difficulty, and scoring criteria of the computer-based IELTS test remain consistent with the paper-based format. In the computer-based test, you’ll take the Listening, Reading, and Writing sections on the same day without any breaks between these parts.

For the Listening section, the timing differs slightly from the paper-based test. You’ll have time to read the questions before each part begins and two minutes at the end to review your answers. The total duration of the Listening test is between 30–34 minutes.

The Speaking test, however, is conducted separately. It may be scheduled up to a week before or after the other sections. This section remains a face-to-face interaction with a human examiner, ensuring an authentic assessment of your language and communication skills.

Why Is a Human Examiner Better for the Speaking Test?

• Clarifications: The examiner can repeat or rephrase questions if needed.
• Accent Recognition: They can better understand diverse accents and nuances.
• Personalized Assessment: A human examiner can recognize and evaluate your strengths beyond what a bot could detect.

The total duration of the computer-based IELTS test, including all sections, is 2 hours and 45 minutes.

Results

The results for the computer-delivered IELTS test are typically released within 5–7 days after the test date, compared to the 13-day timeline for the paper-based test. Test Report Forms (TRF) for both modes are valid for two years from the date of results posting.