IELTS, aka The International English Language Testing System, started its computer-based exam in 2017; and it was Australia that came up with CD-IELTS.
Now, you must know that you can opt for taking IELTS on a PC or paper for both the Academic tests and General Training. So, there has been a common argument about the difference between CD-IELTS and paper-based IELTS. However, the CD-IELTS content is similar to the paper-based IELTS.
The sole difference is you need to write answers on paper instead of typing on the PC, and there are a few major differences in the test order and environment. So, if you’ve been looking for the core differences between the two tests, this article will show you everything you need. So, let’s get straight to it.
Differences between the CD-IELTS and Paper-based IELTS
A quick comparison table is shown below for your convenience:
| CD-IELTS | Paper-based IELTS |
|---|---|
| The candidates need to type their answers on the computer screen in this pattern. A pen or pencil and paper will be given for creating short notes. In brief, complete the exam steps, such as reading, writing, listening using a PC, and the speaking test in front of an IELTS examiner. | This exam pattern comes with an answer sheet and a pencil to write down your responses. All the IELTS aspirants will need to write answers on this sheet within the prescribed time. Lastly, complete the paper-based exam steps, such as reading, writing, listening using paper, and the speaking test in front of an IELTS examiner. |
| The CD-IELTS exam mainly occurs in the smaller and custom-tailored rooms. Therefore, every setup in those rooms is precisely designed for additional comfort. | Such an examination is held in the bigger rooms, mainly at the educational institutions, hotels, or centrally located establishments. |
| While booking slots for CD-IELTS, you have to search for the computer symbol. | While booking slots for paper-based IELTS, consider the paper icon. |
| In CD-IELTS, the candidate will be typing answers in the boxes on the computer screen. They will get time between the sections for analyzing answers without additional time at the conclusion. | In the paper-based IELTS test format, the aspirant will jot down their answers in the question booklet while listening to the recording. Each candidate gets 10 minutes of the close of the listening section to send the answers to the official answer sheet. |
| The results of the CD-IELTS will come out within 3-5 days after partaking in it. | The results of the paper-based IELTS will be available in 13 days. |
What are the pros of CD-IELTS?
- The word count will be shown on the computer screen; hence no worry about counting the words.
- The answers will be saved automatically, implying they don’t need to keep saving their responses.
What are the pros of paper-based IELTS?
- Students appreciate the competency to draw and write; mainly in the writing section, which is said to be the toughest section.
- They will obtain an additional 10 minutes at the end of the listening section.
Whatever language proficiency test you have decided on partaking in, you have to be prepared for the big day. For better preparation, contact Gurully today.
