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IELTS Computer-Based Test: Structure, Benefits, and Essential Details

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By:CANAM Group
Updated On:Aug 14,2023 05:40 PM IST

IELTS is a popular English proficiency test accepted by most academic institutes worldwide. The test is conducted through both offline and online mediums. Read the blog to learn about the structure of IELTS CBT, including its benefits and other details.

IELTS Computer Based Test Structure, Benefits, and Essential Details.webp

IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is one of the most popular English language proficiency tests widely accepted by universities, colleges, and immigration authorities. It is basically for individuals who intend to study, work, or live in a country where English is the most commonly used language.

Previously, the IELTS test was only pen and paper-based testing but now has the new Computer-Based Test format. If a candidate plans to take the Computer-Based Test, they should know its structure, benefits, and other essential details to make way to their desired band score.

What is the Difference between Paper-based IELTS and Computer-based IELTS?

	Paper-based IELTS Academic	Computer-based IELTS
Mode of test	Pen and paper	Computer
Test dates	Conducted four times a month	Conducted seven days a week
Available slots	Fixed exam slot	Flexible slots available (up to 3 slots a day)
Result declaration	12-14 days	3-5 days

IELTS Computer-Based Test Structure

The IELTS CBT is divided into four sections, just like the paper-based test, and takes about 2 hours and 45 minutes to complete. Here is a breakdown of each segment details:

Module name	Details
Listening	The listening test is about 30 minutes long and has four parts, each presenting a recording followed by a set of questions. The topics usually cover everyday conversations and academic-style discussions or monologues.
Reading	This section lasts for 60 minutes and includes three passages with a total of 40 questions. The texts and questions are different for the Academic or General Training version.
Writing	The Writing task takes 60 minutes to complete. The writing section has two tasks. Task 1 in the IELTS Academic is about describing a graph, table, or process, and Task 2 involves writing an essay. In the IELTS General Training, Task 1 is a letter, and Task 2 is an essay.
Speaking	The speaking test takes between 11 and 14 minutes and consists of an interview between the test taker and a trained and certified examiner. It has three parts, namely: Introduction and Interview; Individual long turn; Two-way discussion.

Benefits of the IELTS Computer-Based Test

There are a lot of advantages that one gets if they take the IELTS Computer-Based Test. It includes:

• Convenience: One of the main advantages of IELTS on the computer is that you can type responses faster and neater than writing by hand.
• Flexible Test Dates: This IELTS on Computer test can be scheduled more frequently than paper-based tests, and the applicants can choose the exam date at their convenience.
• Speedy Results: Test takers can expect their results within 5-7 days, compared to the 13 days it takes for the paper-based test
• User-Friendly Interface: The format for the Computer-Based Test has many features like a timer, a progress indicator, and the ability to change the screen's brightness or text size, which gives customization options to the test takers.
• Easy Navigation: IELTS Computer-Based Test helps test takers easily navigate between questions, flag them if they want to review, adjust the volume on the listening test as per their suitability, and offer a more personalized experience.

Also read: IELTS Exam type

IELTS on Computer: Locations across India

Ahmedabad	Amritsar	Anand - VV nagar	Bathinda
Bengaluru - St. marks road	Bengaluru - Kasturba road	Bengaluru - Whitefield	Bhopal - MP nagar
Chandigarh	Chandigarh - sector 34	Chennai	Chennai - Adyar
Dehradun - Ballupur chowk	Goa - MG road	Gurugram	Begumpet
Hyderabad - Jubilee hills	Hyderabad - Kukatpally	Jaipur	Jalandhar
Karnal - Shyamnagar	Kochi	Kolkata - Park street	Lucknow - Aliganj
Ludhiana	Mumbai	Mumbai - Lower parel	New delhi - Nehru Place
New delhi - Pitampura	New delhi - Rajouri garden	Noida	Pune
Pune - Shivaji nagar	Rajkot - Nana Mauve circle	Surat	Thane
Vadodara	Vijayawada

Computer-based IELTS: Preparation Tips

Students must familiarize themselves with the test format to prepare well for the Computer-based IELTS. By practicing and familiarizing with the test format, test takers can achieve success in the Computer-based IELTS. To do this, applicants may use the resources that provide free IELTS CBT practice tests to understand the format and improve their speed and efficiency.

Also read: IELTS Eligibility

Here are a few IELTS preparation tips to help candidates during the test:

Read and try to understand every question carefully.

Listen to podcasts with different accents, sound clips from movies and news.
In the reading section, Use the skim and scan method to get answers.
Practice each section in the given time for speed and efficiency
Highlight the important parts while reading the passage.
Be careful about grammar and spelling.
Improve vocabulary by reading different topics
Be confident while answering the examiner in the speaking section.

Always remember that the IELTS test is conducted to measure candidates' English language proficiency skills. Whether taken on paper or computer, it makes little difference. To succeed in the IELTS exam, candidates must prepare well and familiarize themselves with the test format. To understand the test format and master their preparation for IELTS, candidates can take the help of IELTS trainers and practice IELTS on Computer tests at home.

Also read: IELTS Exam dates

FAQ

What is the structure of the IELTS Computer-Based Test (CBT)?

The structure of the IELTS Computer-Based Test (CBT) is similar to the structure of the paper-based test; the CBT version is divided into four sections: The Listening section is 30 minutes long, the Reading and Writing section is of 60 minutes, and the Speaking section is approximately 15 minutes long.

Are the contents of the IELTS paper-based and computer-based tests the same?

Yes, the contents of both versions of the IELTS test are the same. The only difference is the mode of taking the test: one is on paper, and the other is on a computer. In case of the Speaking test, it remains a face-to-face interview in both formats.

What are the benefits of taking the IELTS CBT over the traditional paper-based test?

IELTS CBT offers individuals several benefits over paper-based tests, such as the convenience of typing responses, choosing the test dates flexibly, faster results, a user-friendly interface that offers customizable features, and navigating easily between questions.

How can I prepare for the IELTS Computer-Based Test?

There is no difference in the content of both versions of IELTS; the preparation remains the same. It is recommended that the candidates should familiarize themselves with the CBT format by practicing online tests so to improve their speed and accuracy in the actual test.

How does the IELTS Computer-Based Test cater to candidates with special requirements?

The CBT version has a customizable user interface where candidates can change the screen's brightness or size of the text to suit their needs. But they can contact the local test center to discuss if they have specific requirements beyond these features.

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IELTS Computer-Based Test: Structure, Benefits, and Essential Details

Table of Contents

What is the Difference between Paper-based IELTS and Computer-based IELTS?

IELTS Computer-Based Test Structure

Benefits of the IELTS Computer-Based Test

IELTS on Computer: Locations across India

Computer-based IELTS: Preparation Tips

Here are a few IELTS preparation tips to help candidates during the test:

FAQ

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