
- Details on the IELTS Pen-and-Paper Test
- Format of IELTS Paper-based Exam
- Question Types in IELTS Pen-and-Paper Test
- How is Paper-Based IELTS Scored?
- Results of IELTS Pen-and-Paper Test
- Rules for IELTS Pen-and-Paper Test
- Advantages and Disadvantages of IELTS Pen-and-Paper Test
- Difference Between IELTS Pen-and-Paper Test and Computer-Based Test
With the advancement of technology, essential services like education and healthcare are shifting to online platforms. The same trend applies to international exams like IELTS. Despite this shift, many candidates still prefer the traditional IELTS pen-and-paper test.
To help IELTS aspirants familiarize themselves with this exam mode and start their preparation accordingly, this article provides comprehensive details about the IELTS pen-and-paper-based test.
Details on the IELTS Pen-and-Paper Test
The registration cost for the IELTS exam is the same for both pen-and-paper and computer-based formats. Currently, the IELTS pen-and-paper test fee is 16,250 INR, subject to change.
Over time, the IELTS exam pattern has undergone minimal updates. For details on the latest changes, check the provided resources.
Format of IELTS Paper-based Exam
In the paper-based IELTS exam, candidates take the Reading, Listening, and Writing tests at an authorized test center with question papers and answer sheets. The Speaking test is conducted separately.
- Writing and Reading modules: 1 hour each
- Listening: 30 minutes
- Speaking: Maximum of 15 minutes
From June 25, 2022, the sequence for both paper-based and computer-based IELTS is Writing, Listening, Reading, and Speaking.
Question Types in IELTS Pen-and-Paper Test
Modules | Types of Questions |
---|---|
Listening |
|
Reading |
|
Writing |
|
Speaking |
How is Paper-Based IELTS Scored?
The IELTS exam is scored on a band scale of 0-9:
- Listening and Reading: Scored out of 40
- Writing and Speaking: Assessed based on specific criteria
- Overall Band Score: Calculated from the average of all modules
Results of IELTS Pen-and-Paper Test
The results of the IELTS Pen-and-Paper Test are made available on the official IDP website. Below are the details:
- Result Timeline: Results are published 13 days after the exam completion.
- Validity: Results remain valid for two years from the issue date.
- Usage: They can be used for university applications or immigration purposes.
- Guidelines: Universities have specific requirements for sending Test Report Forms (TRF), while immigration regulations vary by country, which can confuse candidates.
Rules for IELTS Pen-and-Paper Test
Listening, Reading, and Writing Modules
- Candidates cannot leave the examination hall after check-in unless accompanied by an invigilator.
- Personal belongings, except ID, pencils, pens, erasers, and sharpeners, are not allowed inside.
- Raise your hand to communicate with an invigilator during the test.
- Stop writing immediately when the invigilator announces the test’s conclusion.
- Submit all materials, including unused papers, at the end of the test.
Speaking Module
- Carry your identification, candidate number sticker, and yellow desk card for verification.
- Arrive at the test registration room at least 30 minutes before the scheduled time.
- Late arrivals may be accommodated at the examiner’s discretion.
- Discussing the test with others afterward may lead to disqualification.
Advantages and Disadvantages of IELTS Pen-and-Paper Test
Advantages | Disadvantages |
---|---|
No need for computer proficiency, allowing focus on the test. | Time-consuming due to manual writing and difficulty in editing answers. |
Ability to underline and circle keywords on the paper. | Requires transferring answers to an answer sheet, which is error-prone. |
Extra 10 minutes provided for transferring Listening answers. | Results take longer to publish compared to computer-based tests. |
No need for typing proficiency during the Writing section. | Test centers may be crowded, causing distractions. |
Difference Between IELTS Pen-and-Paper Test and Computer-Based Test
Basis | Pen-and-Paper Test | Computer-Based Test |
---|---|---|
Test Sequence | Writing, Reading, and Listening (recently updated). | Listening, Reading, and Writing. |
Listening Module Duration | Extra 10 minutes to transfer answers. | No extra time allotted for answer transfers. |
Test Availability | 48 days a year on selected Thursdays and Saturdays. | Available up to seven days a week, three times a day. |
Speaking Module | Face-to-face with an examiner on a different day. | Face-to-face via computer on the same day. |
Result Publication | Results published in 13 days. | Results available within 3 to 5 days. |
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