General questions

How is IELTS on Computer different from IELTS on Paper?

Just like the IELTS on paper, the IELTS on Computer consists of Listening, Reading and Writing sections. The format, content, scoring and level of difficulty, all remain the same.

The only difference is that now you have a choice of taking IELTS on paper or on a computer.

Is the speaking test on computer too?

We value the level of comfort and ease a human interaction can bring. Therefore, the Speaking test remains face-to-face with a certified IELTS Examiner

Which one is best for me?

It is all about your personal choice.

Some test takers might be comfortable with writing a test using pen and a paper, whereas other test takers might find it more convenient on a computer.

Is the content the same as the IELTS on Paper?

Yes, the content remains the same as the IELTS on Paper. Besides that, the format, level of difficulty and scoring also stay unchanged.

Is the test harder on a computer?

No, the level of difficulty is the same as IELTS on Paper.

Is the test easier if I type faster?

No, the test is the same as the IELTS on Paper in terms of format, content, scoring and level of difficulty. It all depends on what you feel more comfortable using.

Can I still write my answers on paper?

Seventy percent of test takers we spoke to said they liked being able to plan the Writing section of their test on paper, and you can still do this with IELTS on Computer testing.

Registration

How can I apply for the test?

You may apply for your IELTS Test online. IELTS on Paper – Book Now. IELTS on Computer – Book Now. You can also apply by coming into our head office (temporarily suspended because of COVID-19). Please note, you cannot apply or register for IELTS over the phone.

What documents do I need to submit?

A colour scan of your passport information page or Permanent Resident card. This can be uploaded during the online registration. Read more about IELTS TEST DAY INFORMATION AND SCHEDULE.

Can I pay over the phone?

We do not accept payment or registration over the phone, but you can

with credit card, or in person at our head office with cash, credit, or debit card (all in-person services are temporarily suspended because of COVID-19).

Is it possible to move my test to a later date?

You may change your test date at any time more than 14 days before the test. Please refer to our Cancellation Policy for more details.

Why was my speaking test location and/or date changed?

Please note that speaking test is subject to change. We reserve the right to make time/place and date modifications should the need arise. You will be contacted by the Coast English Testing team notifying you of any change.

Which module should I register for?

Choose IELTS Academic if you want to study at university, at an undergraduate or postgraduate level, or join a professional association where English is a prerequisite.

Choose IELTS General if you want to apply for Express Entry or any other immigration program in order to establish anywhere in Canada. Read more about Immigration To Canada.

Special Requirement

If I need special arrangements for the IELTS test, can I still take the IELTS on computer test?

All test takers with special requirements are advised to contact their respective test centers to inquire about the IELTS on computer test suitability

Should I carry my laptop for the test?

No, all the equipment is provided by the test center, including noise-cancelling headphones for the listening test. No other equipment is permitted during the test.

Availability

Are more sessions available since it is a IELTS on computer test?

Yes, please check the test date availability here IELTS on Computer IELTS Availability.

Is the IELTS on Computer test conducted on a regular basis?

Yes. We offer IELTS on Computer tests up to three times per week. Please keep in mind that at certain times of the year, the frequency and availability of these tests may change.

Before the test

How do I prepare for the IELTS on Computer?

Please contact us for information on how to Prepare for IELTS. We offer IELTS Preparation Courses for both Academic and General Training.

During the test

Is the duration of the IELTS on Computer the same as IELTS on Paper?

The timing of the Listening test is a bit different with IELTS on Computer. In IELTS on paper, you are required to transfer your answers to an answer sheet. However, this step is not needed when you are answering directly on a computer.

Can I go to the washroom during the test?

Yes. However, the access to the washroom is denied under the following circumstances:

- The test instructions are being delivered

- The Listening test is underway (including the 10-minute pause at the end)

- The last 10 minutes of each section

- The paper counting of each section

Will I get extra time for a washroom break?

No extra time is allowed for washroom breaks. See CET Washroom Policy. We encourage the test takers to use the washrooms before the registrations.

Will water bottles be provided at the test venue?

To reduce our carbon footprint and reduce waste generation, we do not provide water bottles at the venue. Therefore, we encourage test takers to get their own water bottles.

Please Note: Drinks, such as water or juice, must be in a clear container and must have no words written on the container.

After the test

Is the test marked by a computer or by a person?

Automated markings are done for both the Reading and Listening sections. However, trained Examiners are responsible for grading the Writing and Speaking sections.

Taking IELTS on Computer would mean getting my results faster?

Yes. If you take a IELTS on Computer test, you will receive your test results in 3-5 days.

When can I check my results?

You can check your results online as soon as your results are out. Read more to learn ‘How to check your results online’.

How long will the online preview be available?

The system will display results for up to 40 days after the test date

Can an official copy of my Test Report Form (TRF) be sent to a university or other institution after I have taken the test?

Yes. We will share your results with up to five organizations, free of charge, that you selected during your test registration. Should you wish to add additional recipients after your registration has been completed, the cost will be $32.50 (plus taxes) each. Read more about Sending Your TRFs to a University or Other Institution.

Is it possible to get my score re-checked?

Yes. Within six weeks of the test date, Test takers may apply for an Enquiry on Results (EOR), which is a review of the component scores and final score awarded on the Test Report Form (TRF). Read more about Enquiry on Results (EORs).

What is the centre number?

Our centre number is CA090.

Pricing

Is IELTS on Computer test more expensive?

No, the price is the same as the IELTS on paper test.

Payment

The status of my registration hasn’t changed to ‘paid’ on the British Council account. Should I be worried?

Due to the higher demand, we currently expect it will take 3 business days for the payment to be processed and the status to be changed to 'paid'. Your test will not be cancelled if you have made payment.

I received an email from British Council IELTS saying my test registration will be cancelled if I do not pay within 3 days. I have already paid so this is causing confusion. Can you help?

These automated emails were stopped as of Monday 19th April 2021. Please ignore these emails. If you have a registration with reference number beginning A3-CA090, and you have paid, your registration will not be cancelled. Please allow 5 - 7 business day for processing.

Cancellation

Can I cancel my IELTS test?

We can cancel your registration and issue you a refund as per our Cancellation and Refund Policy. Please complete the Request for Refund or Test Date Transfer Form and send to refund@englishtests.ca including your IELTS Reference Number in the body of the email.

Refunds

I have already applied for a refund but did not hear back from your team. What is happening?

Refund requests are taking longer than usual. Please be advised that if you have completed the Request for Refund or Test Date Transfer Form and sent it to refund@englishtests.ca or info@englishtests.ca with your IELTS Reference Number in the body of the email, please wait for a member of our team to contact you by email. Please do not send any additional emails with respect to the status of your refund as this will simply add further delays.

What is the processing time for refunds?

The current processing time for refunds is 30 days.
Please rest assured, we will base your request for cancellation on the timestamp of your earliest written request to cancel.

IELTS on Computer FAQs