IELTS for UKVI (Academic) delivered on computer will be held on selected dates throughout the year and registration will close one week before the test date, subject to availability of places.

The introduction of this new option will not affect the availability of paper IELTS tests. 

Test takers who choose the new option will take their Listening, Reading and Writing components using a computer. The Speaking test will remain face to face, as this has always been a key feature of the IELTS approach. We believe it is the most effective means of assessing speaking skills and prompts a more realistic performance from test takers.

All other aspects of the test (including content, marking, scoring, security arrangements, etc.) are identical whether it is taken on paper or on computer. All test takers will receive the same Test Report Form.

Please note that this development only affects test takers who need to take IELTS for UKVI (Academic) for UK visas and immigration purposes. It does not affect people taking IELTS for UKVI (General Training), IELTS Life Skills or IELTS for any other purpose.

IELTS, which is jointly owned by the British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia and Cambridge Assessment English, has played a key role in language testing for study, work and immigration purposes for over 25 years. IELTS is accepted by more than 9,000 organisations around the world including universities and employers in many countries, as well as by professional bodies, and other government agencies. It is also used for language testing for UK immigration and for migration to other countries, including Australia, Canada and New Zealand. More than 2.5 million IELTS tests were taken in 2015 in over 140 countries. 

Find out more about IELTS for UKVI (Academic) delivered on computer here.