Before diving into these details, let’s first see what is IELTS? We all have heard this word ‘IELTS’ but do we really know what it is and how does it work? Some of you may do, many don’t so let’s get the clear idea of what IELTS really is before jumping into the topic.
IELTS stands for International English Language Testing System – a standardized test to assess the English language proficiency of non-native speakers.
Countries such as Canada, New Zealand, Australia, the USA, the UK, Ireland and many more accept the IELTS. IELTS is taken by the candidates who are aiming to study or work abroad. Moreover, IELTS normally has two types: academic and general. If you want to go to the United Kingdom either to study or to work in particular, then don’t worry, you have an option for a specific type of IELTS exam named IELTS UKVI that is only accepted by the UK. If you are planning to study abroad then opt for IELTS Academic exam and if you want to work in any foreign country, appear for IELTS General exam. Keep a note that the score of your exam will be valid till 2 years only.
There are 2 modes to deliver the IELTS exam– Paper-based and Computer-based. The current fee structure of IELTS is as follows:
IELTS Academic/General Training (Paper/Computer): ₹18,000
IELTS for UKVI: ₹18,250.
IELTS comprises of 4 modules and score will be given upon the assessment you your response to each module. Let us now see what are those modules. They are as flows:
- Listening
- Reading
- Writing
- Speaking
Each module scores 9 bands. We will see all in detail one by one later on.
Now, once we are cleared with what IELTS is and how it work, let us now look at what this computer-based and paper-based IELTS and understand the difference of the both.
Paper-based IELTS
Firstly, we will look at Paper-based IELTS. It is a traditional IELTS delivery method commonly opted by candidates from years now. Hereby, you will be given question paper and answer sheet to record your answers along with basic stationaries such as pen, pencil and many more. It means you are not supposed to carry anything in your exam centre. It will be provided to you on centre so no worries. There are some changes that have recently been made. Beforehand, students were supposed to record the answer using a pencil, but now instead of a pencil, candidates are instructed to use a pen to write the answer. Using a pen in the IELTS Writing test is like committing to a tattoo — one wrong word and you’re stuck with it. Unlike pencil, you can’t just erase your mistakes. Too many scratches and cross-outs might make your answer sheet look like a battlefield, which isn’t exactly the best way to impress the examiner. So, make sure to use a pen wisely.
Let’s take a look at the modules of IELTS.
Listening module
We’ll start with Listening module. One of the simplest module of IELTS, well all are simple then why did I said this? The reason is pretty straightforward. You are supposed to write what you listen. Now you all might have agreed along right? There is no big deal in writing what you hear. Let’s say it is not that simple as well. Remember you are appearing for English Language proficiency test so indeed your ability will be assessed. However, according to the majority of students, listening module is one of the least difficult among all four. You will be provided with the headphone set that you need to check on prior and adjust the volume according to your convenience. The audio will be played only once so make sure to listen the audio with all due attention. The test will be of approximately 30 minutes and you will be given extra 10 minutes to transfer your answer into the sheet. Moreover, there will be 4 different sections including monologue as well as conversation between two or more people. And you will be answering 40 questions based on what you hear.
Reading module
Now, let us now take a look at Reading module. IELTS Reading teaches you an important life skill: how to panic efficiently in under 20 minutes. Well we will not get panic indeed since we are going to prepare ourselves for the same beforehand. You have to attempt 40 questions of different types under 60 minutes. They say time flies when you’re having fun. In IELTS Reading, time teleports—and leaves you on question 7. In order to avoid such situations, you have to learn time management. Each question will reward you one mark. Unlike listening, you will not be given extra 10 minutes to transfer your answers so make sure to do the same simultaneously. Believe me, if you are efficient in English, you don’t need to worry about anything.
Writing module
IELTS Writing isn’t hard until you’re asked to explain why people buy more bottled water in winter. Well many of you will be encountering some question wherein you will have no idea what it will be about but still you need to write 150 and 250 words in each task. I realized I hadn’t mentioned that you have to write 2 different tasks in writing module under 60 minutes. Little confusing isn’t it? Let me explain this more clearly. IELTS Writing do have 2 different tasks- Task 1 & Task 2. In Task 2, you have to not only put valid points and your opinions but also you have to show your range of vocabulary to prove yourself efficient within 250 words in minimum. Task 2 will remain the same for both Academic as well as General candidates. But Task 1 is different. Academic students will be summarizing the information by selecting and reporting the main features from graphs, charts, diagrams or maps. Wherein, General students are supposed to pen the letter addressing to the given scenario and specific person with minimum 150 words.
Speaking module
Lastly, speaking module itself says that you are supposed to speak. IELTS Speaking is proof that the phrase ‘talking to yourself’ can sometimes be a test strategy. You might be wondering what to speak Of course, you are not suppose to yap about random things. You will be addressing the examiner and you are expected to answer to the questions that examiner will ask you in a formal manner. There are 3 sections which includes introductory questions, a cue card wherein you are expected to speak for about 120 seconds on the given topic and the last one is the follow-up questions. The speaking exam may last up to 20 minutes in maximum. Whether you are appearing for Paper-based IELTS or Computer-based IELTS, speaking will be carried out in person.
The results will be avail to you after 13 days of the exam. Indeed, till then, you are expected to wait.
CD-based IELTS
Let us turn our attention to CD-based IELTS. For the sake of convenience, this method was added for those candidates who are tech-savvy. Additional features are added such as now you can highlight text, make notes, copy and paste the text as well as you can keep the track on the word count. Quite fascinating and advantageous, wouldn’t you agree? Rest are similar except these features. Computer-based IELTS also comprises of the same 4 modules as Paper-based IELTS such as Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking. As mentioned above, speaking will be carried out in person so no changes in the speaking module. Then you might be wondering what about results? Will it take 13 long days? Answer is no. You will get the results within 2 days only. Quick isn’t it? Moreover, unlike Paper-based IELTS, Computer-based IELTS have more exam dates available each week. So, you don’t have to wait for so long. And of course, If your handwriting looks like a doctor’s prescription, computer-based IELTS isn’t a choice — it’s a rescue mission!
Now, you might be wondering which medium is best for you? No worries, I have got you covered.
All you need to do is ask yourself these questions:
- Am I tech-friendly?
- Will I be able to stare at screen for a long duration?
- Will I be able to type at fast pace?
- Is my handwriting hard to read?
- Do I want my results quickly?
If your answers to all these questions is ‘YES’ then without another thought, go for Computer-based.
And, if your answer is a solid ‘NO’ then choose Paper-based.
Easy isn’t it? Keep in mind that the format doesn’t define your success; your preparation does! Whether you are typing or writing, what truly matters is how well you present your idea. Whether you’re clicking through reading passages or flipping paper pages, your understanding and focus are what count. And whether you’re speaking into a room or across a desk, your voice and confidence are what shine through. If you give your honest effort, stay calm, and do your best, there’s nothing that can stop you from reaching your target score. Believe in yourself and keep one thing in your mind: YOU HAVE GOT THIS!