IELTS has been given as a paper-based test for over three decades. In response to the advent of computer-based technologies and its rising trend to offer education and assessments, IELTS has recently created a computer-based IELTS test, commonly referred to as CBT. In December 2017, the Computer-Based IELTS Exam was introduced in Australia, alongside the traditional paper-based test.
Many individuals are unsure whether or not the computer-based test has an edge. So, in this section, we will go through the Benefits of the Computer-Based IELTS Test.
Computer-Based IELTS
If you opt to take a computer-delivered IELTS test, keep in mind that the listening, reading, and writing exams will be conducted on a computer, but the speaking test will be completed in person with an IELTS examiner. There are several advantages to taking IELTS on a computer.
Advantages of Computer-Based IELTS
You will have a vast number of exam dates to pick from. If you choose a computer-based IELTS test, you will have far more freedom in arranging your exam.
Your results will be available in 5-7 days. The paper-based IELTS exam results are published after around 30 days. However, if you take an IELTS computer-based exam, you will receive your results in 5 to 7 days. A computer-delivered IELTS test may be a useful alternative if you are in a hurry.
The computer-delivered IELTS Exam Booking process is less complicated. That depends on how you define “easier.” Most applicants who enrolled in the computer-delivered IELTS exam, on the other hand, reported that it was simpler and less complicated since they just went to approved test centres with the necessary documents and money, and the test center’s pleasant personnel assisted them to a considerable amount. They described the procedure as straightforward since there were less paperwork to fill up, emails to react to, and terms and conditions to comprehend.
You take the test in front of a small crowd. The computer-delivered IELTS test centres, on the other hand, are less crowded because the exam will be taken by a small number of candidates. Furthermore, the “test authority” makes use of noise suppression technology to make the exam room more comfortable and accommodating.
If you are familiar writing on a computer, you can take this exam with more confidence. This, of course, is self-explanatory. If you have a quick typing speed and prefer typing on a computer over writing on paper, this exam is for you.
On a computer, changing answers and correcting errors is straightforward. When it comes to spelling correction on paper, you have two options: erase a few words or the entire phrase, or completely strikethrough it and redo it. Consider doing the same thing on a computer; all you have to do is press the backspace key to remove the key and restart. That is undeniably more convenient and time-saving for an exam where time is your enemy.
You may also take a computer-based practise exam for IELTS. It will really assist you with paper. By practise, you can improve your typing speed.
You don’t need to worry about the clarity and neatness of your handwriting. With computer-delivered IELTS, you won’t have to worry about it because you’ll be typing instead of writing on paper.
Is the IELTS Computer-Based Exam Accepted Everywhere?
Because it is an academic exam completed outside of a test facility, the IELTS indicator is not certified for immigration reasons. The four immigration offices accept just one English language exam.
The paper-based IELTS is intended for students who feel uneasy working on a computer or sitting in front of a computer screen, or who have difficulty typing. However, if you don’t mind typing on a computer, the computer-based test is for you. It is widely acknowledged. Finally, both the paper-based and computer-based IELTS examinations are accepted globally.
Which is the Better Test: Computer-Based or Paper-Based?
While the contrast between computer-based and paper-based IELTS is obvious, choose wisely. If you have basic computer skills, like tying, and value greater privacy, better focus, easy editing, word counts, and other advantages, the computer-based format is ideal for you.
The paper-based IELTS examination style, on the other hand, may be acceptable for you if you are used to preparing and writing on paper, are concerned about your typing and computer abilities, and want an extra 10 minutes after the listening segment.
Conclusion
There are two sorts of IELTS examinations based on how the test is conducted. Two of these ways are the paper-based test and the computer-based test. Both types of testing are almost identical. There are several benefits to taking IELTS on a computer. Most importantly, your results will be available in 2 to 5 days. You are also not need to wait to take the test. This is great if you need to certify your English language skills for migration or studies. The sample exam will help you decide which choice is ideal for you and prepare for the exam.
