Detailed review of IELTS on computer at IDP

Thi IELTS trên máy tính được tổ chức cố định vào các ngày trong tuần tùy theo địa điểm và trung tâm tổ chức thi. Thí sinh cần đăng ký thi ít nhất 4 ngày trước khi ngày thi diễn ra.

The Listening, Reading, and Writing tests will be conducted on the computer, while the Speaking test will still be held in person with an examiner as before. When registering for the computer-based test, all four skills will be tested in one day, saving time for candidates.

The test results will also be available within 5-7 days, significantly reducing the waiting time compared to the paper-based test.

1.1 Check-in

Check-in, also known as the attendance step, is extremely important when you take the computer-based IELTS exam. You need to arrive at the test venue at least 30 minutes earlier than the scheduled time to complete the procedures. Similar to other exams, before the test begins, you must wait outside to have your documents checked and complete some other formalities.

The staff at IDP will explain the regulations in English, and you can store all personal belongings in a locker and keep the key. Then, you will be scanned by staff using a metal detector from top to bottom. If there are no issues, you will be allowed to enter the exam room.

Check-in is an important step and you should complete the check-in procedures before entering the exam room.

During the IELTS check-in process, please note: You are only allowed to bring your Citizen ID or Passport, valid identification documents, into the exam room.

Apart from these documents, candidates are not allowed to bring any other items into the exam room. IDP will provide paper, pencils, erasers, and water for candidates.

1.2 IELTS Computer-based Test Review for Each Skill

Understanding the general test process will help you mentally prepare and make the right decisions. Below are some notes on exam regulations and tips that every candidate should know before registering for the test.

Part 1: Listening Test Login: Before settling into your seat, make sure you are seated in the correct spot. Each desk will be provided with water, an eraser, and pencils.

The Login sheet, containing the login credentials and password, will be given by the invigilator. You will also use the back of the sheet for notes and rough work during the first two skills.

The computer screen will display fields for you to input your information. You need to double-check everything before starting the test to avoid any mistakes.

Sound Check: A static screen will appear for you to check the audio quality.

If your headphones have issues such as static, no sound, etc., report it to the invigilator.

You should select the volume level that is most comfortable for you. Pay attention to the volume adjustment bar at the top right corner of the screen if you need to fine-tune it.

Important: Candidates are not allowed to leave the room during the Listening test.

The Listening test does not repeat and runs continuously, so leaving for any reason is not permitted.

During the test, if you have any questions or need assistance, you can raise your hand, and the invigilator will come to you.

For the computer-based IELTS test, you will directly enter your answers into the test.

The test will not include an example section to help candidates get familiar with the format, as in the paper-based test. If you're used to waiting for the 1-minute "Example" during IELTS practice, you’ll need to pay attention right from the first second to avoid missing any answers.

Additionally, there will be no extra 10 minutes to transfer your answers after the Listening test, as in the paper-based format. Candidates will have 3 minutes to review their answers.

In the last 10 minutes of the Listening test, the clock will turn red as a reminder.

Part 2: Reading Test

After finishing the Listening test, you will move on to the Reading test. Here are some computer-based IELTS test reviews and tips for this section to help you perform well:

There is no break when taking the test on a computer. You will immediately start the Reading test after completing the Listening section.

In this skill, the computer provides you with a "Highlight" tool to mark important sections and a "Note" tool to make annotations.

These two features help you identify and remember the location of information, instead of underlining and writing notes on paper like in the old format. Since the method of highlighting and taking notes will be different from using paper, candidates need to take notes selectively and strategically.

After the test, the examiner will collect the Login sheet and announce the start of the Writing test.

Part 3: Writing Test

The computer-based Writing test offers several obvious advantages compared to handwriting on paper. Here are some key features:

Similar to the regular word processing functions on computers, the Writing test screen provides a "Word Count" feature, which helps you keep track of the number of words in your answer.
In the paper-based test, it can be difficult to know whether you have written enough words, and counting them can be time-consuming. But in the computer-based Writing test, the word count feature will help save time. This feature is very useful for candidates to edit, shorten, or add ideas easily.

For those who can type quickly, taking the test on a computer will save even more time.

Part 4: Speaking Test

The IELTS Speaking test retains its face-to-face interview format with an examiner. The examiner’s questions may be repeated.

Taking the IELTS on a computer instead of on paper is a new form of testing that has been applied by IDP and BC in Vietnam since the end of 2018. This innovation in testing methods brings a fresh experience for candidates, and the test results are also graded faster.

Computer-based IELTS test schedule: Computer-based IELTS tests are held frequently, with more flexible timing. If you are worried about waiting to register or entering a traditional test room, then taking the test on a computer is a suitable choice. The number of candidates registering for the computer-based IELTS test is not too crowded, significantly less than the paper-based test, so you won't have to wait in line for long.

Choosing the test organizer: You can choose the test organizer for the computer-based IELTS test to be either IDP or BC.

Test fee: The cost for registering for the IELTS test, whether on paper or on a computer, is 4,664,000 VND. However, currently, IDP and BC have many promotional programs, so the price for the computer-based test may be reduced compared to the paper-based test.

Test result time: The paper-based IELTS test usually returns results at least 2 weeks (13 - 14 days) after the test. The computer-based IELTS test returns results much faster than the paper-based test. You will know your test results within 3 to 5 days.

The computer-based IELTS test provides results faster than the traditional paper-based test.

Note:

• The computer-based IELTS test still includes all 4 skills. However, you will only take the test on the computer for the Listening, Reading, and Writing skills. The Speaking test will still take place in the same manner as the traditional test.

• All 4 skills are tested on the same day.

2.1 Advantages of the computer-based IELTS test

• Candidates receive their test results and certificates faster than with the paper-based test.

• The computer-based IELTS test is held frequently and continuously with diverse time slots, making it easy for candidates to schedule.

• The Speaking test will take place on the same day.

• The Writing test has Word counts, helping you save time and control your test better.

• If you have good typing skills, the Writing test will be completed sooner, saving time to review your test more thoroughly. Additionally, you won't have to worry about issues like unclear handwriting making it difficult for the grader to read.

2.2 Disadvantages of the computer-based IELTS test

• If you are not proficient with the operations, it can lead to stress. You often miss a few questions during the test because you can't keep up with the operations.

• The Listening test in the computer-based method will not read the example at the beginning of the test and the 10 minutes to transfer answers at the end of the test as on paper.

• For those with eye problems or who are not used to sitting at a computer continuously, it will be easy to get eye strain when looking at the computer for nearly 3 hours.

Most candidates when registering for the IELTS exam are quite confused about whether to choose computer-based or paper-based test . This depends on the needs, preferences, and individual strengths of each person. Some candidates choose the paper-based test because they are afraid of unfamiliar computer operations, or they feel more confident when taking the paper-based test. Some candidates choose the computer-based test because they have more experience using computers, type faster than handwriting... Therefore, you can refer to the reviews of the computer-based and paper-based IELTS tests below to choose the appropriate test format for yourself.

3.1 Take the computer-based IELTS test when

• Need to save time: For those who are busy studying or working, it is advisable to take the computer-based IELTS test. You should register early to choose a suitable test time (at least 2 weeks before the test date).

• Actively choose the test date: There are many computer-based IELTS test dates for you to choose from. It is very rare that you cannot choose a date within a week because the number of candidates taking the computer-based test is much lower than the paper-based test.

• Want to get test results sooner: If you need to get the test results soon to ensure the time for studying abroad paperwork or any other reason, the computer-based test is the priority choice.

• Proficient in using computers: The computer-based IELTS test format will be more suitable for those who are familiar with computer operations, helping to save time to complete the test in the best way.

3.2 Take the paper-based IELTS test when

• Not proficient in computer operations: For those who do not frequently use computers, taking the test will be unfamiliar with the operations. So you can choose the paper-based test to be more confident.

• Feel uncomfortable looking at the computer screen for a long time: Looking at the computer for a long time can cause eye strain and dry eyes, causing discomfort for those who are not used to using computers.

• Have breaks between tests to regain spirit: It is advisable to choose the paper-based test when you want to have rest time after each test section. Avoid continuous testing for many hours, which can cause fatigue or loss of concentration.

Besides understanding the individual advantages of each test format, you can also refer to IDP's quiz to help you determine which format is suitable for you.

You can refer to IDP's quiz to find the suitable test format for yourself

Currently, the computer-based IELTS test is officially available at IDP Education Vietnam. Additionally, you can still choose the paper-based IELTS test as you wish. Computer-based IELTS test at IDP will be held on fixed dates and the registration deadline will end 4 days before the test date, depending on the availability of seats.

Some reasons why you should choose the computer-based IELTS test at IDP:

• IDP is proud to be a co-founder and organizer of the IELTS test worldwide.

• With over 25 years of organizing IELTS tests in Vietnam, IDP has conducted IELTS tests for millions of candidates in Vietnam who intend to study abroad, immigrate, develop their career/job, or achieve the required IELTS score to be exempted from the English subject in the high school graduation exam.

• Professional test organization, pre-test preparation support, convenient test time and location, IDP has been a reliable IELTS test organizer for many candidates in Vietnam for many years.

IDP is a reputable computer-based IELTS test organizer in Vietnam

>>> To get familiar with the real test, quickly Register for a computer-based practice test at IDP.

Hopefully, with the information about computer-based IELTS test review provided by IDP, you will easily choose the test format that suits your preferences and priorities. Before registering for the test, make sure you understand the test structure and the test procedures to achieve the best results.