• IELTS
Computer Delivered IELTS: Pros & Cons
1525 Reads
3 min Read
IELTS first offered the choice for test-takers to take the exam on a computer rather than on paper about three years ago. Since that time, there have been 2 separate IELTS exams kinds depending on how the test is administered. These methods include computer-based testing (CBT) and paper-based testing (PBT). It is just one question students are asking that "Which one is easier?” Additionally, it is acknowledged as a CD IELTS test, which stands for computer-delivered IELTS.
Table of Contents
The main distinction is that the Writing Reading, and Listening, assessments will be completed on a computer. Like the paper-delivered IELTS, the Speaking interview will continue to be conducted in person.
This holds true for both the Academic and General IELTS assessments. You will also receive your test results a little bit quicker. Your computer-delivered IELTS results arrive in 4-5 days. It takes roughly 13 to 14 days for the IELTS paper.
The IELTS examinations that are offered on the computer and on paper have the same question types, levels of difficulty, and durations. It is just the change in test-taking methods. This post will list the advantages and disadvantages we found and assist you in selecting the test that will enable you to achieve the required score.
Also read: IELTS test - Overview
Advantages of taking the exam offered by computer
Flexible centers
You attend it in a smaller area with fewer people, making it easier to focus and perhaps less stressful (some centres feature individual cubicles). There may be some flexibility about the time you take it at some test centres, such as in the morning or the afternoon, before or after the Speaking test.
Hassle-free Reading
When it comes to CD IELTS Reading, there is no problem of flipping the page. Many people especially those who are not in the habit of reading now, find it difficult to flip the page again and again. CD IELTS makes it easier for them to read by dividing the text and Questions on half and half screen.
Less Crowded centers
You take it in a smaller space with fewer people, making it easier to concentrate and perhaps less stressful (some centres feature individual cubicles).
It doesn't matter how you write
Don't be concerned if your handwriting is tough to read and understand. The computer-delivered IELTS is ideal for you if you feel like you have lost the touch with writing. IELTS that is computer-delivered aids in making your points more understandable to the examiner.
Also Read: Exam types for IELTS test
Simple to edit
Many of our students discovered that editing their writing was simpler when utilising a computer. As a result, they discovered that organising and structuring their essay was a lot simpler.
No worries of the word limit
The number of words in your essay will be automatically counted by the computer. Many of our students felt that having one less item to think about during the exam made it a little less stressful.
Navigation Bar
At the bottom, there is a Navigation Bar where you may view your progress and any missing answers. Throughout the allotted time, you have the option to go back and evaluate your responses.
Simply click the number you would like to review in the Navigation Bar; it will be highlighted. You can manage your own time and move back and forth anytime you wish, just like in the paper IELTS test (using the Back and Forward arrows).
You do not need to press enter because your responses are immediately saved (you can change your answers anytime).
Less Wait for Results
Results are released on the 4th or 5th working day of the test which means you no longer have to be nervous about the results.
Also read: How to register for an IELTS test
Computer Skills
You do need to know how to use a computer, which may seem obvious. You must be able to click, clear, navigate, scroll, highlight, drag and type, copy, and paste) fast while paying attention to the test. If you are unfamiliar with these computer skills, you risk wasting time.
Distractions via Typing
If you're the type of person who needs absolute silence when taking an exam, the sound of many computers typing nearby might disturb you. There are a lot of perks and drawbacks to taking the IELTS exam on a computer.
It's crucial to understand that they won't ever affect your performance or score or help you get a better grade. Only the experience of your exam will be impacted by them.
Students who attribute their failure to the IELTS test hardly ever meet the necessary standards.
The reason is that pupils who hold this mentality find it difficult to accept criticism and work on their flaws. Better approach will be that you work on your drawbacks.
Also read: Syllabus for IELTS exam
FAQ
No, the two examinations have identical material; the only difference
is in the way the questions are answered. In a computer-based test
(CBT), you will enter your answers electronically rather than on
paper.
No. Since the test centre will supply all necessary equipment and no
additional equipment is allowed, there is no need for you to bring
your keyboard or laptop.
The scoring system is the same in every way. The only distinction is
how the answers are entered.
The CD IELTS is being made available so that those who are accustomed
to typing on computers can take advantage of it and take the test on a
computer. If you can type quickly, you should take the computer-based
test. If you struggle with typing or reading on a computer, you must
take the test on paper.
Writing and Speaking are still scored by certified Examiners, while
the IELTS Reading and Listening components are marked automatically by
the computer.
Get great articles direct to your inbox
The latest news, articles, and resources, sent straight to your inbox every month.
Popular Universities to Study Abroad
World class education waiting for you.

Royal Holloway,University of London
England, UK • 51 Programmes
Tuition Fee : GBP 18000-24000 / year

New Brunswick Community College - Miramichi Campus
New Brunswick, Canada • 22 Programmes
Tuition Fee : CAD 10500-11000 / year

Kaplan Group - The University of Adelaide College - Adelaide Campus
South Australia, Australia • 500 Programmes
Tuition Fee : AUD 33000-50000 / year

Education Centre of Australia (ECA) Group - Victoria University - Sydney Campus
New South Wales, Australia • 12 Programmes
Tuition Fee : AUD 21000-25000 / year

LCI Melbourne - Art and Design School
Victoria, Australia • 7 Programmes
Tuition Fee : AUD 31500-38000 / year


Devry University - Chicago Campbell Campus
Illinois, USA • 46 Programmes
Tuition Fee : USD 15000-16500 / year

Popular English Language Proficiency Exams
IELTS Online
- Live Classes
Blogs and Articles
Curated content to keep you updated on the latest education trends, news and more.
Updated on • Feb 21,2025 11:53 AM IST • Germany
Updated on • Feb 19,2025 12:31 PM IST • USA
Updated on • Feb 18,2025 10:58 AM IST • Ireland
Accommodation in France for Indian and International Students
Updated on • Feb 14,2025 11:33 AM IST • France
Public Relations (PR) Courses in Australia
Updated on • Feb 07,2025 11:03 AM IST • Australia
Job Opportunities in France for International Students
Updated on • Feb 06,2025 12:47 PM IST • France
Pros & Cons of Studying in France
Updated on • Feb 04,2025 05:49 PM IST • France
Updated on • Feb 04,2025 12:29 PM IST • Germany
February Intake in Australia: Timeline, Courses, Universities, Deadlines & More
Updated on • Feb 01,2025 04:57 PM IST • Australia
What is the difference between CV and Resume?
Updated on • Jan 31,2025 05:27 PM IST • Study Abroad Guidance
Cookery Courses in New Zealand for International Students
Updated on • Jan 29,2025 12:27 PM IST • New Zealand
Updated on • Jan 25,2025 05:52 PM IST • Study in Canada
Updated on • Jan 24,2025 10:50 AM IST • Study in Canada
Canada Student Visa Interview Questions
Updated on • Jan 23,2025 12:16 PM IST • Study in Canada
Updated on • Jan 21,2025 05:46 PM IST • USA
Things to Keep in Mind Before Studying Abroad
Updated on • Jan 21,2025 05:21 PM IST • Study Abroad
IELTS Exam Dates 2025 in India
Updated on • Jan 18,2025 05:13 PM IST • IELTS
Updated on • Jan 16,2025 03:32 PM IST • USA
PTE Exam Centers in India 2025: Check City Wise PTE Exam Centers
Updated on • Jan 16,2025 03:12 PM IST • PTE
Updated on • Jan 15,2025 04:40 PM IST • Study in Canada
Related Blogs and Articles
A little effort to provide an authentic and reliable content for keen readers!!
IELTS Exam Dates 2025 in India
Updated on • 18-01-2025 • IELTS
IELTS Reading Practice Tests 2025: Reading Passage and Sample Questions
Updated on • 15-01-2025 • IELTS
IELTS Letter Writing Topics 2025
Updated on • 15-01-2025 • IELTS
Canada IELTS band requirements 2025
Updated on • 10-01-2025 • IELTS
Updated on • 25-11-2024 • IELTS
Updated on • 21-11-2024 • IELTS
Updated on • 02-11-2024 • IELTS
Linking Words for IELTS Speaking - Word List & Tips
Updated on • 25-10-2024 • IELTS
IELTS Writing Task 2 - Academic and General Topics with Sample Answer
Updated on • 25-10-2024 • IELTS
IELTS Writing Task 2: Tips, Lessons & Models
Updated on • 25-10-2024 • IELTS
IELTS Test Report Form (TRF): Number, Tracking, Validity and Sample
Updated on • 25-10-2024 • IELTS
IELTS Speaking Samples and Answers
Updated on • 25-10-2024 • IELTS
Updated on • 25-10-2024 • IELTS
Updated on • 25-10-2024 • IELTS
IELTS Sample Charts for Writing Task 1 Practice
Updated on • 25-10-2024 • IELTS
IELTS GT Writing Task 1/ IELTS Letter Writing
Updated on • 25-10-2024 • IELTS
IELTS Essays : Five Types of IELTS Essays
Updated on • 25-10-2024 • IELTS
Updated on • 25-10-2024 • IELTS
How many times is the IELTS exam conducted in a year?
Updated on • 25-10-2024 • IELTS
How to Get 9 In IELTS Reading?
Updated on • 25-10-2024 • IELTS