IELTS on computer: the screen, the tools and the habits that save marks
The questions are the same as on paper, but the way you work changes. Here is what to practise before the day.
From mid 2026 IELTS is moving to computer delivery everywhere, and paper tests are being withdrawn country by country. In some countries you can still handwrite the Writing test, called Writing on Paper, while everything else is on computer. The questions and timing are the same, but the way you work changes. A student who has only practised on paper often loses a few minutes on the day just finding their way around the screen.
The tools you get
- Timer at the top of the screen. It flashes when 10 minutes and 5 minutes are left in Reading and Writing.
- Question numbers along the bottom. You can jump to any question.
- Review flag to mark a question and come back to it.
- Highlighting in Reading. Select words and highlight them.
- Split screen. In Reading the text is on the left and the questions on the right. In Writing the task is on the left and your answer on the right.
- Word count under your writing.
- Volume control in Listening.
Habits that save marks
- Listening: type each answer as soon as you hear it. You get 2 minutes to check at the end, and no extra time to copy answers across.
- Reading: highlight the key word in the question, then highlight where you find it in the text. Your eyes find it again much faster.
- Reading: flag any question you guessed, and come back to it if you have time.
- Writing: keep an eye on the word count, but do not chase it. Aim a little above the minimum, not far above.
- Writing: there is no spell check. If you rely on it at home, switch it off when you practise.
Listening on computer.
How fast are results?
| Test | Results |
|---|---|
| IELTS on computer | 1 to 5 days |
| IELTS Online | 6 to 8 days |
- How IELTS on computer works, IDP
- Getting your IELTS results, IELTS.org
- Updates to IELTS test delivery, IELTS.org
Exam rules change. Always check with the exam provider and the organisation you are applying to.
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