Updates to IELTS test delivery
We continue to evolve IELTS test delivery to meet the needs of test takers and recognising organisations. Explore the latest updates and what they mean for your organisation.
What's changed?
The IELTS partners regularly review and improve our service to ensure we are meeting the needs of today's test takers. Recently, we found higher satisfaction among test takers who choose IELTS on computer because it is more convenient, results are faster, and it offers One Skill Retake.
After careful review, from mid-2026, we will no longer offer IELTS as a paper-based test. All IELTS tests will be delivered on computer. Exact timelines will vary by market.
Exceptions to these changes
We are aware that some test takers like handwriting answers, so we are introducing a new option. In selected markets, we will introduce ‘Writing on Paper’. This update will allow test takers to personalise their test experience by handwriting their answers to the 'Writing' component on paper if they choose.
Importantly, this update does not change the IELTS skills assessed, the test construct, or the way results should be interpreted by institutions. IELTS remains the global standard in secure English language testing, with the same quality, validity, security and recognition that makes IELTS the most trusted English test around the world.
Why?
Research has been conducted to assess score comparability between the current paper-based test and the ‘Writing on Paper’ delivery mode for IELTS on computer. The results show that scores are comparable across formats, both overall and within each score band.
Research also shows that ‘Writing on Paper’ provides a test-taker-friendly experience that builds candidates’ confidence while maintaining stable, standards-aligned score outcomes and preserving score reliability.
Our accessibility promise
To ensure fair access, we will continue with our current Access Arrangement offer, which includes large print, braille, hearing impaired (lip reading), and One Skill Retake for test takers with Access Arrangements.
Important thing to note
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All current paper-based test results are not affected and will remain valid until the end of the recommended two-year period.
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The Secure English Language Test (SELT) for UK Visas & Immigration purposes will only be available in the fully digital format.
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One Skill Retake will now be available for Writing on Paper but must be taken in the same delivery mode as the original test.
If a test taker chose Writing on Paper, their One Skill Retake must also be done with Writing on Paper and not writing on computer.
Book your IELTS test today
Visit our IELTS booking page to find available test dates.
Useful Resources
Apply to become an IELTS recognising organisation and start accepting IELTS test results within your admissions or recruitment process.