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IELTS on paper has been discontinued. Learn what this means for you.
IELTS on paper is discontinued. Learn what this change means for you.
7 months ago
IELTS on paper update: As per ielts.org, IELTS on paper is no longer available as of 27th June 2026.
Why is IELTS updating their test?
According to IELTS.org, the IELTS on Paper update aims to make the test more user-friendly for current test takers. “Recently, we found”, they said, “higher satisfaction among test takers who choose IELTS on computer...” Not only that, but according to them, IELTS on Computer will also improve:
- Results: Within 48 hours.
- The test is more convenient: Students can book a day before their preferred date, if seats are available.
- One skill retake at Rs. 22,680: Students can retake one skill within 60 days of the IELTS test.
Will IELTS on paper update affect IELTS test format?
No, the IELTS on paper update will not affect the IELTS test format. Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking will remain the same. This update will only affect how students take the IELTS test; students can only take the IELTS on computer.
Students must take every component except speaking on computer. The speaking component of IELTS is done face-to-face with an examiner.
Note: Students will have the option to take "Writing on Paper" for the writing component. Students can choose it when booking an IELTS test date.
So, what exactly is Writing on Paper?
Writing on Paper is exactly what it sounds like; students will have the option, when booking dates, to take the writing component of the IELTS test on paper.
Note:
- Students will only have this option for the writing component; other components must be taken on a computer.
- If students choose Writing on Paper when booking dates, they will also be required to take one skill retake for the writing component on paper.
Will IELTS on paper update affect my IELTS test results?
No, the IELTS on paper update will not affect your IELTS test results. Your IELTS result will remain valid for up to 2 years, just like before.
When is the last day for IELTS on paper?
The last day for the IELTS on paper was 27th June 2026.
Will IELTS on paper update affect IELTS fee?
No, the IELTS on paper update will not affect the IELTS fee. Students have to pay the same fee for the IELTS on computer, which, as of 1st May 2026, is Rs. 36,000.
How will IELTS on paper update affect the speaking component?
IELTS on paper update will not affect the speaking component. Whether it is IELTS on paper or on computer, you will have to take the speaking component in person, just like before.
Will IELTS on paper update affect IELTS UKVI?
Yes, the IELTS on paper update affects the IELTS UKVI; students can no longer take the UKVI on paper as of March 21st, 2026. Students are now required to take IELTS UKVI on computer.
What should students focus on after IELTS on paper update?
IELTS on paper is no longer available as an option from 27th June 2026; students should focus on their typing skills and computer-related skills. Not only that, but students should practice all components of the IELTS test on the computer.
Why you should take IELTS class with Search Education?
Looking for the best IELTS class in Kathmandu? Search Education offers expert IELTS preparation led by Mr. Hari Dhakal, a CELTA-certified instructor with 20+ years of teaching experience. When you join our IELTS classes, you'll benefit from:
- Expert instruction with personalized feedback.
- Free IELTS mock tests in a real exam-like environment.
- Computer-based practice for IELTS Writing and typing skills.
- Affordable course fees with excellent value.
- Flexible revision classes.
- IELTS date booking offers.*
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Frequently Asked Questions?
When will IELTS on paper update be in effect?
As of 27th June 2026, the IELTS on paper is no longer available.
I don’t have typing skills, what should I do?
If you don’t have typing skills, we advise students to practice the IELTS test on a computer. It will help hone your computer-related skills.
And if you don’t have a computer, you should enroll in Search Education's IELTS class. We offer the best IELTS class in Kathmandu taught by a CELTA-certified instructor with 20+ years of experience.
I don’t have a computer to practice with, what should I do?
If you don’t have a computer, you can rent one on Cyber or, even better, enroll in Search Education's IELTS on computer class. We offer the best IELTS class in Kathmandu, taught by our CELTA-certified instructor with 20+ years of experience.
What if I have already taken the IELTS test before IELTS on paper update?
If you already took the IELTS test before the IELTS on paper update, you have nothing to worry about. It doesn’t matter if you took the IELTS on paper or on computer; your test result will be valid for 2 years, just like before.
What IELTS on paper update means for the IELTS test format?
IELTS on paper update doesn't change the IELTS test format. Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking will remain the same as before. Students are now required to take the test on a computer, not on paper.
Will IELTS on paper update affect my IELTS results?
No, the IELTS on paper update does not affect test results; it is valid for 2 years, just like before.
Can I take IELTS on computer if I have only prepared for IELTS on paper?
Yes and no. Yes, you can take IELTS on computer because the questions for both modes are the same. So even if you have only prepared for the IELTS on paper, you can take IELTS on computer.
No, without practicing IELTS on computer, i.e., typing and other computer-related skills, you may not get your preferred IELTS score.
So, enroll in Search Education's IELTS class. We offer the best IELTS class in Kathmandu taught by our CELTA-certified instructor with 20+ years of experience.
Will the test be reliable and comparable internationally?
Yes, the IELTS on paper update hasn't changed test components, nor has it changed how the test is verified. This change will only affect the IELTS test mode. So, this test will remain reliable and comparable internationally.
How IELTS on paper update affects test experience for candidates?
IELTS on paper update makes the test-taking experience much more efficient and flexible.
Does IELTS on paper update affect speaking components?
No, the IELTS on paper update does not affect the speaking components. It will be done in person, just like before.