
The International English Language Testing System is an English language proficiency test one has to take if one wants to study, work or immigrate to English-speaking countries. For a long time, IELTS was a paper-based test. However, recently, IELTS has offered students a choice of taking the test in computer-based mode [CBT] or paper-based mode [PBT]. Choosing the suitable mode of examination is no mean feat here!
The test format is the same, you get the same sections, the same question types, the same difficulty level, and the same time per section with the same evaluation and marking scheme. The Speaking section, conducted face-to-face, often on different dates, is the SAME for both PBT and CBT. The main differences between CBT and PBT can be seen in the Listening, Reading, and Writing modules, which are discussed in detail below:
Modules | Pen-Paper based | Computer-based |
Listening |
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Reading |
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Writing |
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Speaking | Same | Same |
Other differences between the two test formats:
Pen-Paper based | Computer-based |
4 slots in a month | 90 slots in a month |
Results in 12-13 days | Results in 3-5 days |
Test centers are less crowded | Test centers may be more crowded |
– | Noise because of typing during the writing section can get distracting |
While choosing the most appropriate mode of the exam, we recommend that you keep in mind your application deadlines. In addition, find out your comfort level by checking the sample of the CD-IELTS on the IDP website to know the Page Look and feel of the CBT exam. Similarly, you can try out a paper-based test to eventually decide which mode to choose.
At Dilip Oak’s Academy, we provide detailed guidance on these processes under our Admission Counseling Services that include, selection of universities, documentation process and visa counselling along with mock visa interviews. As India’s leading Study Abroad Consultants, we have helped more than 30,000 students to secure their dream-admits for various universities in America including MIT, Stanford, Cornell, Carnegie Mellon and other top-ranked universities.
We also offer GRE, TOEFL, and IELTS coaching, GRE Self Prep and guide students with university selection, application essays, and visa counseling under our Admission Counseling Services for USA, Germany and UK. To enroll, call us on 91-020-67444222, 91-8007878495.