Making the right choice is of utmost importance when test takers decide between the two IELTS test formats: Paper-based (PB) and Computer-delivered (CD) tests. This is because they need to be comfortable in an exam situation with whichever format they choose. This comprehensive blog will explore the similarities and differences between these two test modes, thereby helping you make an informed decision that suits you.
Similarities between PB and CD IELTS:
1. The same Level of Difficulty: Both test formats are designed to evaluate your English language proficiency, and they offer equal difficulty levels.
2. Thorough Evaluation: Whether you choose PB or CD, you will be assessed on all four language skills: listening, reading, writing, and speaking.
3. Monthly Availability: You can take either test mode monthly, and this availability provides flexibility for your schedule. However, there are more CD tests in a month than PB tests.
4. Speaking Test: The speaking test is conducted similarly for both modes. The test would be completed by an examiner at your chosen IELTS test centre, which would be done face-to-face or via a video call.
Differences between PB and CD IELTS
1. Test Format: PB is conducted on paper with a pen or pencil, while CD is written using a computer. All these would occur in a standard IELTS test centre in your country or state.
2. Test Duration: The IELTS test will last about 2 hours 54 minutes for the Paper-based test and about 2 hours 46 minutes for the Computer-delivered examination. Additionally, the PB test takes place over two days. The listening, reading, and writing tests are done on one day, while the speaking test is conducted on another day. However, the CD test is completed in a single day, and the aspects of the test would be conducted in a day.
3. Test Date Availability: CD offers more test dates monthly than PB.
4. Note-taking: In PB, you are permitted to take notes on your question papers. In the CD, you will be provided with a pen/pencil and paper provided in the exam hall. Also, you can make digital notes on the computer screen. However, the notes you take either in the PB or CD test will not be graded as part of your responses to the test questions.
5. Result Turnaround: After 13 calendar days, the PB results are released on the test taker portal, while the CD test results are usually available within 3 to 5 calendar days after the test has been taken.
6. Listening Test Equipment: If you opt for the CD test, you will be provided with headphones for the listening test, while you may or may not offer a headset if you take the PB test mod
Exam Booking
When booking your IELTS exam, keep an eye out for available dates because they will have labels on them, meaning you will see PB, CD and BOTH written on different dates. When you see PB on a test date, it is the only available option for that date. If you see a CD, that’s the only format for that day. But if you see BOTH, this means both PB and CD are available on that specific day. This labelling makes it easy and allows you to choose what date and test mode suits you best.
Exam booking requirement:
To book the IELTS test, you need a valid international passport, and you must be over 13 years old.
Ready to Choose Your IELTS Test Mode?
Now that you have a complete understanding of the similarities and differences between the IELTS test modes, it’s time to decide, putting your personal preferences, scheduling needs, and comfort with technology into consideration.
Remember to choose the mode that aligns with your strengths and preferences. Whichever you choose, you will need to prepare for it mentally, physically, and intellectually adequately. Work on building your stamina to sit in a test hall for up to 3 hours or more. More so, practise the sample IELTS test questions under exam-timed situations.
Ready to take the next step? Book Your IELTS Test Now. Don’t hesitate—secure your test date today and confidently move forward on your relocation journey.
6. Listening Test Equipment: If you opt for the CD test, you will be provided with headphones for the listening test, while you may or may not offer a headset if you take the PB test mode.
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