• IELTS

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

6113 Reads
3 min Read

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.

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.

University of Hertfordshire - College Lane Campus

England, UK • 123 Programmes

Tuition Fee : GBP 0-0 / year

New Brunswick Community College - Saint John Campus

New Brunswick, Canada • 56 Programmes

Tuition Fee : CAD 10500-11000 / year

QS - Drexel University

Pennsylvania, USA • 28 Programmes

Tuition Fee : USD 0-0 / year

Saskatchewan Polytechnic - Regina Campus

Saskatchewan, Canada • 33 Programmes

Tuition Fee : CAD 13500-23500 / year

London Metropolitan University - Holloway Campus

England, UK • 191 Programmes

Tuition Fee : GBP 13000-17500 / year

Sprott Shaw College - Chilliwack College Campus

British Columbia, Canada • 18 Programmes

Tuition Fee : CAD 10000-38000 / year

Portage College - Lac La Biche Campus

Alberta, Canada • 12 Programmes

Tuition Fee : CAD 15000-29500 / year

Study Group - University of Aberdeen International Study Centre

Scotland, UK • 182 Programmes

Tuition Fee : GBP 14000-24000 / year

View All Universities

Latest at CANAM

Events, webinar, college / university visits and more.

University Visit - Edmonds College, USA

Study in USA • University Visit

New Delhi • 02:00PM

In-Person Event

Global Admissions Fair

Study in Canada, UK, USA, Australia, New Zealand, Germany, Ireland • Application Days

Jagroan • 09:30AM

In-Person Event

University Visit - Manitoba Institute Of Trades And Technology (MITT)

Study in Canada • University Visit

kochi2 • 10:30AM

In-Person Event

Top countries destinations

Popular university and colleges for Studying abroad.

Bond University Queensland
Central Queensland University - Rockhampton, North Campus Queensland
Charles Sturt University - Wagga Wagga Campus New South Wales
Deakin University - Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus Victoria
Engineering Institute of Technology - Perth campus Western Australia
Griffith University - Nathan Campus Queensland
La Trobe University - Bendigo Campus Victoria
LCI Melbourne - Art & Design School Victoria

Ara Institute of Canterbury - City Campus Southland
Aspire 2 International - Auckland Campus Auckland
Auckland University of Technology - City Campus Auckland
Eastern Institute of Technology - Hawke Bay Campus Hawke's Bay
Manukau Institute of Technology -Manukau Campus Auckland
Massey University - Auckland Campus Auckland
Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT) - Nelson Campus Southland
New Zealand Institute of Business & Technology (NZIBT) Auckland
The University of Waikato - Hamilton Campus Hamilton

Kent state university Ohio
San Jose State University California
Wright State University Ohio
Clark University Massachusetts
Rowan University New Jersey
Arkansas State University Arkansas
University of Wisconsin Milwaukee Wisconsin
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Illinois
University of Findlay Ohio

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.

Best Countries to Study MBBS Abroad at Low Cost

Studying MBBS abroad is more than just earning a degree. It's about acquiring a globally recognised medical degree that opens doors to advanced medica...

Updated on • Dec 14,2024 04:17 PM IST • Courses in Canada

MBA in Finance in New Zealand

Did you know New Zealand has become an emerging destination for pursuing an MBA (Master of Business Administration) program? The number of MBA student...

Updated on • Dec 13,2024 05:05 PM IST • New Zealand

Education System in Singapore

Singapore, also known as the "Lion City," has one of the most holistic and innovative education systems in the world. The Organization for Economic Co...

Updated on • Dec 12,2024 05:03 PM IST • Singapore

Medical Courses in UK

Medical courses in the UK are recognised globally for their academic challenge, updated facilities, and comprehensive practical experience. UK Univers...

Updated on • Dec 10,2024 05:36 PM IST • study in the UK

MBBS in Germany

Studying an MBBS in Germany offers a pathway to a world-class education in medicine, attracting thousands of aspiring doctors from around the globe ev...

Updated on • Dec 09,2024 05:49 PM IST • Study in Germany

Letter of Motivation for Germany

If you are planning to study abroad, you must know that the SOP is the most essential document for the application process. In Germany, the same SOP i...

Updated on • Dec 07,2024 05:11 PM IST • Germany

Part-Time Jobs in Germany for International Students

Studying abroad is an experience of a lifetime, incorporating distinct incidents and events. Students are advised to work part-time to make this adven...

Updated on • Dec 06,2024 04:38 PM IST • Study in Germany

Health Insurance in Germany for International Students

Do you know that Germany has one of the world's oldest national health insurance systems? That's right, and the health insurance system of Germany dat...

Updated on • Dec 06,2024 04:05 PM IST • Study in Germany

Scholarships in Germany for International Students

For international students looking to pursue their higher education abroad, Germany is known as one of the most affordable study destinations. Its cre...

Updated on • Dec 06,2024 03:59 PM IST • Study in Germany

Study Permit for Canada

Planning to study in Canada? But in order to heading off to the land of the maple leaf, it's important to understand how to apply for a Canadian study...

Updated on • Dec 05,2024 05:04 PM IST • Study in Canada

Student Life in UK

The United Kingdom is home to some of the most renowned universities that provide learning opportunities to students nationwide. The country is known ...

Updated on • Dec 04,2024 04:46 PM IST • study in the UK

Master of Information Systems (MIS) in USA

In today's fast-paced and digitally-driven world, organizations increasingly depend on information systems to streamline operations, enhance decision-...

Updated on • Dec 02,2024 05:28 PM IST • USA

Bachelor of Nursing Courses in Australia

Are you passionate about helping others and drawn to the dynamic world of healthcare? A Bachelor of Nursing in Australia could be the perfect la...

Updated on • Nov 30,2024 03:16 PM IST • Australia

Study Medicine in Germany

Are you an international student planning to study medicine in Germany? We want to tell you are going in the right direction, as Germany hosts world-c...

Updated on • Nov 27,2024 05:34 PM IST • Study in Germany

Universities of Applied Sciences in Germany

Germany is gaining popularity for its top-notch universities of applied science, known as Fachhochschule. These esteemed institutes offer top-quality ...

Updated on • Nov 27,2024 05:22 PM IST • Germany

Student Life in Germany

Germany is known for its affordable education and top-class universities in Europe, but what is it like to become a student at a German univ...

Updated on • Nov 27,2024 04:18 PM IST • Study in Germany

Complete Undergraduate Admissions Guide to Study in Germany

Ever dreamt of studying in a land steeped in history and innovation? Germany, a powerhouse of education and engineering, beckons you with it...

Updated on • Nov 27,2024 03:54 PM IST • Study in Germany

PTE Score Chart 2025: PTE Exam Scoring System & Calculation

Most international institutions demand proof of strong English skills, making language proficiency tests a necessity to pursue higher education. While...

Updated on • Nov 26,2024 01:55 PM IST • PTE

Masters in Project Management in USA

Students with ISTJ Personality may have a successful future in project management as their sole personality aligns with the needs of an exceptional pr...

Updated on • Nov 26,2024 01:15 PM IST • USA

IELTS Speaking Questions

The IELTS exam is a popular way for people who want to study overseas, but don't speak English as their first language or where it's not spoken often....

Updated on • Nov 25,2024 03:45 PM IST • IELTS

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

Events, webinar, college / university visits and more.

Popular university and colleges for Studying abroad.

Bond University Queensland

Central Queensland University - Rockhampton, North Campus Queensland

Charles Sturt University - Wagga Wagga Campus New South Wales

Deakin University - Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus Victoria

Engineering Institute of Technology - Perth campus Western Australia

Griffith University - Nathan Campus Queensland

La Trobe University - Bendigo Campus Victoria

LCI Melbourne - Art & Design School Victoria

University Canada West British Columbia

University of Windsor Ontario

Dalhousie University Nova Scotia

Carleton University Ontario

Cape Breton University Nova Scotia

University of ottawa Ontario

University of saskatchewan Saskatchewan

University of regina Saskatchewan

University of guelph Ontario

Ara Institute of Canterbury - City Campus Southland

Aspire 2 International - Auckland Campus Auckland

Auckland University of Technology - City Campus Auckland

Eastern Institute of Technology - Hawke Bay Campus Hawke's Bay

Manukau Institute of Technology -Manukau Campus Auckland

Massey University - Auckland Campus Auckland

Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT) - Nelson Campus Southland

New Zealand Institute of Business & Technology (NZIBT) Auckland

The University of Waikato - Hamilton Campus Hamilton

University of Warwick England

De Montfort University England

University of West London England

University of Strathclyde Scotland

Aston University England

University of Bath England

University of Liverpool England

Durham University England

Newcastle University England

Kent state university Ohio

San Jose State University California

Wright State University Ohio

Clark University Massachusetts

Rowan University New Jersey

Arkansas State University Arkansas

University of Wisconsin Milwaukee Wisconsin

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Illinois

University of Findlay Ohio

Popular English Language Proficiency Exams

IELTS Online