Ways to take IELTS
You can take the IELTS your way, with options to take IELTS on paper or computer in a test centre, or online at home. Take a look at the differences between IELTS on computer, on paper and online.
What are the different ways to take IELTS?
At the British Council, booking an IELTS test is quick and convenient. Depending on your location, you can choose between paper-based or computer-delivered IELTS. Check the booking portal to see the IELTS test modes available in your area.
Fast-track your future with faster results
Take the test via computer at an official test centre. Questions for the Listening, Reading and Writing sections will be given on-screen and you’ll input your answers directly onto the computer. Your Speaking test will be live with an examiner. Results typically arrive within 2 days.
For a preference for pen and paper
Take the test on paper at an official test centre, where available. You’ll receive a question booklet and answer sheets for the Listening, Reading and Writing sections. Your Speaking test will be one-to-one with an examiner at the test centre.
Take the test at home for ultimate convenience
In some countries, you can take the IELTS Academic test remotely at home with the right equipment and a stable internet connection. You’ll complete the Listening, Reading and Writing sections on computer, and your Speaking test via a video call with an examiner.
- Test taker
- Canada
How do the different options compare?
While the format and questions are the same for IELTS on paper, on computer and online, some features of the test vary. Take a look at the table below comparing different IELTS test modes to decide which test is right for you.
| IELTS on computer | IELTS on paper | IELTS Online | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total test time | 2 hrs, 45 mins | 2 hrs, 45 mins + 10 mins to transfer answers in Listening section | 2 hrs, 45 mins |
| Location | Official test centre | Official test centre | Remote: a private, well-lit space, e.g. home |
| Results | 1-5 days, typically received with 2 days | Up to 13 days | 6-8 days |
| Retakes | One Skill Retake available | Full resit | Full resit |
Take IELTS with confidence with the British Council
However you choose to take your IELTS test, take it with confidence at the British Council. With clear instructions, friendly staff, and a quiet test environment, we’re here to help you succeed. Check available IELTS test modes and dates in your location through the booking portal.
Taking the IELTS test: FAQs
IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is a test of your English skills for study, work or living abroad.
You can take your IELTS test on computer or on paper at one of our official test centres. Availability of different modes is dependent on your location.
IELTS on computer: Take all test sections except Speaking on a computer at a test venue.
IELTS on paper: Handwrite all sections - except Speaking - in a booklet at a test venue.
In some countries and territories, you can take IELTS Online at home with the right equipment. This option is not available for IELTS for UKVI tests. Go to our IELTS online page to find out where this test is available.
The British Council offers IELTS Academic, IELTS General Training, IELTS for UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) and IELTS for UKVI Life Skills. See Which test should I take? to learn which test is right for your purposes.
You can take your IELTS test at one of over 1,600 locations in more than 140 countries. This may be at a British Council test centre or at one of our hundreds of partner sites around the world. Visit our booking portal to check availability at your local test centre.
IELTS for UKVI tests must be taken at a UK Home Office-approved IELTS for UKVI location.