IELTS gives you more choice in how you complete your Writing test, because choosing a format that suits you can make a real difference to how you feel on test day.
With IELTS Writing on Paper, you get the benefits of IELTS on computer with the familiarity of writing by hand. You’ll complete Listening and Reading on computer, then write your answers for the Writing section on paper.
In this article, we’ll explain how IELTS Writing on Paper works, what to expect on test day and how to prepare with confidence to achieve your best possible result.
What is IELTS Writing on Paper?
IELTS Writing on Paper is a new test option that allows you to complete the Listening and Reading sections on computer, then complete the Writing section by hand on paper.
When you choose this format, your Writing tasks will be displayed on the computer screen, and you’ll be given an IELTS Writing Answer Sheet and a pen to write your responses.
If writing by hand feels more natural than typing, IELTS Writing on Paper gives you the choice to write in a way that suits you best on test day.
What is the IELTS Writing on Paper format?
Choosing IELTS Writing on Paper doesn’t mean learning a new test format. The tasks, timing and scoring stay the same. The only difference is that you’ll write your answers by hand for the Writing section.
What the full test looks like when you choose IELTS Writing on Paper
IELTS test section | Delivery format | Time | Parts |
|---|---|---|---|
Listening | On computer | 30 minutes | 4 |
Reading | On computer | 60 minutes | 3 |
Writing | Questions on computer. Handwritten responses. | 60 minutes | 2 |
Speaking | With an examiner | 11-14 minutes | 3 |
What the Writing test looks like for IELTS Writing on Paper
You’ll have 60 minutes to complete the Writing section of the IELTS test.
During that time, you’ll need to complete two tasks. It’s recommended that you spend about 20 minutes on Task 1 and 40 minutes on Task 2.
IELTS Academic Writing
Task 1: Describe some visual information in your own words
You’ll have to summarise the information you see in a graph, chart, table, diagram or map.
Word limit: At least 150 words
Task 2: Write an essay
You’ll be given a point of view, argument or problem which you need to discuss in an essay format.
Word limit: At least 250 words
IELTS General Training
Task 1: Write a letter
You’ll be asked to respond to a situation by writing a formal, informal, or semi-formal letter. For example, you may need to ask for information, explain a situation, make a complaint or offer recommendations.
Word limit: At least 150 words
Task 2: Write an essay
You’ll be given a point of view, argument or problem which you need to discuss in an essay format.
Word limit: At least 250 words
What happens on test day when you do IELTS Writing on Paper
As mentioned above, you’ll do the IELTS Listening and Reading sections on a computer in a test centre. When it’s time for the Writing section of your IELTS test:
When it’s time to complete the Writing section of your IELTS test, you’ll watch a short video with instructions on what to do.
When you’ve finished watching the video, you’ll be asked to put up your hand to request the paper answer sheets.
An invigilator will give you the paper answer sheets and a pen to handwrite your responses.
The questions will be displayed on the computer screen throughout the Writing test.
You can ask for extra paper if you need it.
At the end of the test, an invigilator will collect your papers before you leave the test room.
Want to see what this looks like on test day? Watch our IELTS Writing on Paper test tutorial.
Important to note:
The questions for Task 1 and Task 2 will be displayed on screen.
You will complete your answers on the paper answer sheet. Make sure you write on the corresponding answer sheet for Task 1 and for Task 2.
You will be able to click back and forth between questions.
Make sure to follow the instructions on the word count needed for each task.
How to prepare for IELTS Writing on Paper
You can prepare for IELTS Writing on Paper the same way you would prepare for any other IELTS Writing test. The test content is the same whether you choose to take the Writing test on computer or on paper.
You'll also be assessed in the same way, by trained examiners who use the marking criteria that is set out in the IELTS Writing band descriptors.
Use IELTS Preparation Resources
You can access a wide range of tools and resources to prepare for your test.
IELTS Writing Practice Tests
Prepare using our IELTS Writing practice tests available in the IELTS Prepare Hub.
Set a timer (20 minutes for Task 1 and 40 minutes for Task 2) to simulate real test conditions.
Handwrite your answers on paper.
Review your writing and identify any areas for improvement using the IELTS Writing band descriptors as a self-assessment checklist.
IELTS Writing Video Series
Watch our video series How your IELTS Writing test is marked to learn all about the different Writing assessment criteria.
IELTS Writing Band Descriptors
Familiarise yourself with the IELTS Writing band descriptors, so that you understand how you are being assessed for the IELTS Writing test, and what to take note of to achieve your target score.
Important tips:
Practice writing your responses by hand, and using a timer to ensure you are able to complete you answers in the allocated time limit.
During preparation and practice, have a sense of your word count, as you will need at least 150 words for Task 1, and at least 250 words for Task 2.
Why take IELTS Writing on Paper?
IELTS Writing on Paper is a good option for test takers who are more comfortable writing by hand. This option combines the familiar experience of handwriting with many of the advantages of a computer-delivered test.
With IELTS Writing on Paper, you can:
Choose the IELTS Writing format that suits you: Select the test delivery option that helps you perform at your best.
Get fast results: Receive your scores typically within one day, just like IELTS on computer.
IELTS One Skill Retake: If you don’t achieve your desired score, you may be eligible to retake one section of the test instead of the whole test. IELTS One Skill Retake is available for those who have taken the IELTS Writing on Paper test.
Benefit from the same globally recognised IELTS test: IELTS is accepted by over 13,500 organisations, with the same scoring standards, fairness, and test content are used across all IELTS test formats.
No matter which format you choose, your IELTS score remains globally accepted and valid for study, work, and migration.
Ready to book your IELTS Writing on Paper test?
IELTS Writing on Paper is now available to book at IDP IELTS Parramatta for tests from 29 September, and at selected IDP IELTS test centres* for tests from 7 October onwards.