Important Changes to IELTS on Paper
IELTS is making an important change to IELTS on Paper starting July 2026.
If Writing comes naturally than typing for you, our Writing on Paper option offers comfort and speed, so you can take your test with confidence.
Please read the FAQs carefully to stay informed about the change:
If you choose IOC Writing on Paper, you can complete the Writing component of the test with a pen and paper. During the test, you will sit at a computer desk and work your way through the Listening and Reading sections of the test on computer. When you come to the Writing section, you will see your tasks on screen, but you will be provided with an answer sheet and a pen to complete your responses.
IELTS on computer (Writing on Paper) allows you to enjoy the benefits of our computer-based test, with the comfort of writing by hand.
Complete the Writing section by hand using pen and paper
Find a date and venue to suit you with more booking choices
If you don’t get the result you need, resit one skill, not the whole test
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What are the changes to IELTS?
IELTS on Computer (IOC) is now offered with two options: Writing on computer, or Writing on Paper. The Listening and Reading tests can be completed on a computer only. This change provides greater flexibility while maintaining the same trusted IELTS experience.
Q. What is IELTS on Computer and Writing on Paper?
IELTS Writing on Paper is a new option within IELTS on Computer (IOC). It allows test takers to complete the Writing section using pen and paper while completing the Listening and Reading sections on a computer.
Q. Is IOC - Writing on Paper the same as IELTS on Paper?
No, Writing on Paper is part of IELTS on Computer. Only the Writing section is completed on paper in this format. While the Listening and Reading modules are completed on a computer. IELTS on Paper is no longer offered.
Q. How will the test be conducted?
You will sit at a computer desk and complete the Listening and Reading sections on a computer. When you reach the Writing section, you will receive an answer sheet and pen to write your responses by hand. To ensure you get this option, you will need to select Writing on Paper during your registration.
Q. Why should I choose Writing on Paper?
Writing on Paper may be a good option if you feel more comfortable handwriting your responses instead of typing them for long answers. It combines the comfort of writing by hand in the Writing section with the benefits of IELTS on a computer such fast results and more dates and time availability.
Q. Are the test questions different?
No, the test content, difficulty level, and scoring remain the same as per the IELTS standards. There are practice materials available to get familiar with the type of questions in the test.
Q. Will Universities and Immigration authorities accept Writing on Paper results?
Yes, IELTS Writing on Paper is accepted by all authorities and for immigration purposes.
Q. Will my score be affected if I choose Writing on Paper?
No, your test is assessed using the same scoring criteria and standards as the regular IELTS tests.
Q. Can I still use One Skill Retake?
Yes, you can access One Skill Retake (OSR) on both the IELTS on Computer and IELTS on Computer (Writing on Paper) test formats. For more information regarding OSR policies, CLICK HERE.
Q. When can I receive my test results for IELTS on Computer (Writing on Paper)?
The test results can be expected typically within 1-5 days.
Q. How can I book IELTS on Computer (Writing on Paper)?
The registration process is the same. When booking your IELTS test, select the IELTS on Computer (Writing on Paper) format. It will show you the test locations, dates, and time available. Once you select them as per your preference, you can proceed to the payment option and confirm your booking.
Q. What is the availability of the test days and timings for the new format? Will the test dates be limited to weekend, as paper-based format?
No, this new format has more days throughout the week. The test days can be checked on our website. We have 5 locations and we offer IOC – Writing on Paper on all seven days. Please feel free to book any day and time that works best for you. Click here to register.
Q. Will stationery and paper be provided during the test?
The test centre will provide the answer sheet and pen (no pencils are allowed) required for the Writing section.
Q. Can I type my Writing answers instead?
Yes, if you prefer typing, you may choose the standard IELTS on Computer format instead of the Writing on Paper option. Ensure you select the right option at the time of registration. You can register for your IELTS Test here.