• IELTS

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

12556 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 Cumbria (Carlisle - Brampton Road Campus)

England, UK • 11 Programmes

Tuition Fee : GBP 10000-16000 / year

Ara Institute of Canterbury - City Campus

Canterbury, New Zealand • 74 Programmes

Tuition Fee : NZD 20520-31580 / year

Hult International Business School - Boston Campus

Massachusetts, USA • 27 Programmes

Tuition Fee : USD 0-0 / year

Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT)

Alberta, Canada • 121 Programmes

Tuition Fee : CAD 12000-43000 / year

SRH Universities - Hamm Campus

North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany • 7 Programmes

Tuition Fee : EUR 9000-9000 / year

Penn State Dickinson Law - University Park Campus

Pennsylvania, USA • 1 Programmes

Tuition Fee : USD 60000-61000 / year

Shorelight Group - Bridgewater College

Virginia, USA • 29 Programmes

Tuition Fee : USD 16000-16500 / year

Niagara College - Welland Campus

Ontario, Canada • 50 Programmes

Tuition Fee : CAD 16500-29000 / year

View All Universities

Latest at CANAM

Events, webinar, college / university visits and more.

University Visit - Brock University

Study in Canada • University Visit

Bangalore • 11:00AM

In-Person Event

University Visit - CBS International Business School

Study in Germany • University Visit

New Delhi • 11:30AM

In-Person Event

University Visit - Deakin University

Study in Australia • University Visit

Chandigarh • 12:00PM

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.

MS in Pharmacy in USA

Have you ever thought about what it takes to break into the world’s largest pharmaceutical market? Generating more than 46% of the global pharmaceut...

Updated on • Jul 17,2025 05:33 PM IST • USA

PTE Accepted Universities in Australia

In recent years, PTE has emerged as one of the alternatives to IELTS to study abroad. Many top study-abroad destinations like USA, UK and New Zealand ...

Updated on • Jul 17,2025 05:09 PM IST • PTE

Part-Time Jobs for International Students in Australia

One of the most asked questions by our Indian students is about the part-time jobs for international students in Australia. Indeed, a part-time job pl...

Updated on • Jul 17,2025 03:44 PM IST • Australia

STEM MBA in USA

STEM MBA may be an odd-sounding combination of courses, but it is fulfilling if pursued. The perfect blend of science and commerce adds to this progra...

Updated on • Jul 12,2025 04:02 PM IST • USA

Highest Paying Jobs in India

Indian parents expect their children to follow a set pattern of going to school, getting into a college and finally pursuing a job. But what are the h...

Updated on • Jul 11,2025 11:32 AM IST • Education

CPT vs OPT: Meaning, Difference, and How to Apply

The USA has always been a popular study destination among international students for its wide variety of courses and post-study work opportuniti...

Updated on • Jul 11,2025 10:40 AM IST • USA

Masters in Computer Science in UK: Top Colleges, Eligibility, Scholarships

The UK is an excellent choice to study a Masters in Computer Science. It is a home to world-renowned institutions offering a high standard of educatio...

Updated on • Jul 10,2025 11:29 AM IST • study in the UK

Highest Paying Jobs in the World

With super-advanced technologies like AI entering every field, the assumptions are high that the job roles that exist today won't exist after some yea...

Updated on • Jul 08,2025 01:40 PM IST • Study Abroad

MBA in Australia for Indian Students: Best Universities, Requirements, Scholarship, Courses, Jobs

Master of Business Administration (MBA) has always been a popular postgraduate degree for Indian students to pursue in order to gain advanced sk...

Updated on • Jul 08,2025 01:35 PM IST • Australia

Canada vs Australia: Which Country is Better for Indian Students in 2025?

Human life is filled with making choices every day. In 10th grade, we choose between arts and commerce, after 12th grade, the college, but those were ...

Updated on • Jul 07,2025 12:46 PM IST • Education

France vs Germany: Which Is Better for International Students?

In 2024, many vintage study destinations, including the Big 4, saw a drop in international enrolment, and this trend continues till this year. This le...

Updated on • Jun 30,2025 05:15 PM IST • Education

Top 10 Agricultural Universities in USA

Agriculture or farming is not merely the growing of crops or taking care of animals, but it’s the largest contributor (27%) to global employment. It...

Updated on • Jun 27,2025 05:25 PM IST • USA

Most In-Demand Future Careers in 2025

The world of work is changing faster than ever. Technology, climate change, aging populations, and space exploration are creating jobs we’ve never s...

Updated on • Jun 26,2025 04:41 PM IST • Education

How Much Do Nurses Make in the U.S.?

Do you also think, “How much is the salary of a nurse in the USA?”. If yes, then you are not alone. Being one of the noblest professions in the wo...

Updated on • Jun 23,2025 03:59 PM IST • USA

Study MBBS in the USA

There are innumerable professions, but a career in MBBS is respected and admired more than any other line of work. Many of us harbour a drea...

Updated on • Jun 21,2025 02:00 PM IST • USA

MBA in UK: Universities, Eligibility, Types, and Career Opportunities

Master of Business Administration from UK is a prestigious academic degree, especially when gained from the UK. Business schools in the UK are well kn...

Updated on • Jun 19,2025 04:09 PM IST • UK • study in the UK

Scholarships in France for Indian Students

Are you planning to study in France but are scared of the expensive tuition fees? But now there is no need to fear because you can take advantage of F...

Updated on • May 29,2025 05:22 PM IST • France

Intakes in Dubai for Indian Students

World-class universities, a multicultural environment and tax-free earnings are some of the benefits that attract Indian students to Dubai. However, i...

Updated on • May 27,2025 03:34 PM IST • Study in Dubai

France Student Visa 2025 – Requirements, Fees, Checklist & Application Process

Imagine this: Today is the day you will sit for your dream job interview. You practised all possible questions, wore formal attire, and collected all ...

Updated on • May 23,2025 03:36 PM IST • France

MBA in France for Indian Students in 2025

MBA is one of the most sought-after master’s programs worldwide. France is increasingly becoming popular as an overseas education destination. The r...

Updated on • May 22,2025 05:35 PM IST • France

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