Here is some information regarding the new IELTS test on computer.
These are just some of the plus and minus points.
Advantages of taking the IELTS on Computer
- You get the results sooner
- Tests available almost every day
- Great for fast typers
- Easier to make corrections (copy pasting is not allowed)
- Timer to help you manage the time
- Word counter in the writing part
- Headphones for the Listening (less distractions?)
- A lot of centres have the Speaking test on the same date as the rest of the exam
- For the Reading part, you can highlight segments of text, you can also make text notes too, see image below.
Disadvantages:
- More expensive (around 100$ more)
- You can’t write or draw on the question sheet, potentially bad for the Listening and Reading
- Writing Task 1 – might be harder because you can’t take notes on the question paper
- Highlighting text takes much more effort and wastes time, following maps is more difficult, etc.
Advantages of Paper Based IELTS computer test (traditional)
- Cheaper (around $100 usd less)
- Works better for slow typers
- Possible to make notes on the question sheet, helpful for tasks including maps and highlighting key words
- You may make mistakes, but you certainly won’t make a typo
Disadvantages:
- Most younger people, myself included, do type faster than they write, so the Writing part will be slower for the majority
- Students with poor handwriting could lose points (more info here).
- Have to transfer answers to the answer sheet, increased chances of making mistakes
- Fewer tests, longer wait for the results
- Speaking could be arranged for another day
