IELTS Paper Based Test, Pattern, 2025 Exam Dates, Fees and More
IELTS Paper Based Test: Learn all about the IELTS Paper-Based Test, its structure, key details, registration process, exam dates, fees, and preparation tips to excel in Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking sections.
Porishmita Paul19 Jan, 2025
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IELTS Paper Based Test: The Paper Based mode of IELTS is the traditional exam format launched by the IDP. This format allows candidates to answer questions on paper with a pen. The simplified structure of the test and long-term familiarity help students to better comprehend the IELTS Paper Based Test than the computer-delivered test. The IELTS PBT has four major test components: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. For, the Listening, Reading, and Writing sections, candidates are required to use black ball pens, whereas, the Speaking test is organised face-to-face with an interviewer. Applicants can read the complete writing to learn more details about the IELTS Paper Based Test .
IELTS PBT Latest News:
- No Registration in IELTS PBT by Non-Resident Test Takers in India
- Only Black Ball Pen in IELTS for PBT from 22 Feb 2025
IELTS Paper Based Test Overview
The IELTS Paper Based Test offers a simple and comfortable exam atmosphere among students with handwriting and face-to-face interaction. Many students prefer the IELTS Paper Based Test over the Computer-based exam for academic, migration, and professional purposes. According to the latest notification by the IDP, all aspirants appearing for the IELTS test with a non-residence status in India will not be allowed to apply for the IELTS paper based test from 16 January 2025. Students who wish to apply for an IELTS PBT test will be required to submit proof of residence confirming their temporary residence status in India for a minimum period of 3 months. However, international students with a valid passport where IELTS is not conducted can attempt the test without any proof. Here’s a comprehensive table summarizing key details about the IELTS Paper Based Test :| IELTS Paper Based Test Highlights | |
|---|---|
| Category | Details |
| Exam Name | IELTS (International English Language Testing System) |
| Conducting Body | IDP |
| Exam Mode | Paper Based |
| Test Sections | - Listening - Reading - Writing - Speaking |
| Total Duration | 2 hours 45 minutes |
| Medium of Test | English |
| Instruction Language | English |
| Question Types | - Multiple choice - Matching - Sentence completion - Short-answer questions - Essay writing |
| Scoring System | Band scores from 1 (Non-User) to 9 (Expert User) for each section |
| Result Date | 13 calendar days after the test date |
| Test Frequency | 4 times a month, 48 fixed test dates in a year. |
| Eligibility | No specific eligibility criteria |
| Accepted By | Over 11,000 institutions worldwide, including universities, employers, and immigration authorities |
| Special Requirements | Test-takers with disabilities can request accommodations |
| Test Fee | INR 17,000 |
| ID Requirement | Valid passport or national ID |
| Results Format | Test Report Form (TRF), available online and via post |
| Rescheduling Policy | Can be rescheduled at least 5 weeks before the test date |
| Cancellation Policy | Refunds are available if canceled at least 5 weeks before the test date |
Click Here to Explore IELTS Online Courses
IELTS Paper Based Exam Pattern
The IELTS Paper Based Test assesses four key skills: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. The Listening, Reading, and Writing sections are completed on paper, while the Speaking test is conducted face-to-face with an examiner.| IELTS Paper Based Test Format | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Section | Time | Questions | Description |
| Listening | 30 minutes | 40 questions | Audio recordings with multiple-choice, matching, and gap-fill tasks. |
| Reading | 60 minutes | 40 questions | Passages with tasks like matching headings, true/false, and multiple-choice. |
| Writing | 60 minutes | 2 tasks | Task 1: Describe a graph/chart; Task 2: Essay writing. |
| Speaking | 11-14 minutes | 3 parts | One-on-one interview with structured and open-ended questions. |
| IELTS Different Module Practice Tests | |
|---|---|
| Free IELTS Speaking Practice Tests | Free IELTS Writing Practice Tests |
| Free IELTS Listening Practice Tests | Free IELTS General Practice Tests |
IELTS Paper Based Test Dates 2025
The test is offered four times a month at authorized test centers. Below is a sample schedule for IELTS Paper Based Test dates 2025 in India for January and February months:| January 2025 IELTS Exam Dates | |
|---|---|
| IELTS Test Date | Test Type |
| Saturday, 4th January 2025 | Academic and General Training |
| Thursday, 16th January 2025 | Academic and General Training |
| Saturday, 25th January 2025 | Academic |
| February 2025 IELTS Exam Dates | |
|---|---|
| IELTS Test Date | Test Type |
| Saturday, 1st February 2025 | Academic |
| Saturday, 8th February 2025 | Academic and General Training |
| Saturday, 22nd February 2025 | Academic and General Training |
Click here to check IELTS PBT Exam Dates for 2025
IELTS Paper Based Test Registration Process
Follow the below-mentioned steps to complete the IELTS registration for Paper Based Test:- Choose Your Test Date: Visit the official IELTS website and select a convenient date.
- Create an Account: Register on the IELTS website or at your local test center.
- Fill in Personal Details: Provide accurate information, including your ID details.
- Pay the Fee: Complete the payment online or as per the center’s guidelines.
- Confirm Registration: Receive your test confirmation email with venue details.
Also Check:
IELTS Paper Based Test Fees
The IELTS exam fee for PBT is INR 17,000 for Indian students. For foreign candidates, the fee typically ranges between $190 and $250. The IELTS test fee for paper-based tests is subject to modification. Therefore students are advised to check the official IDP website regularly to not miss any latest updates on IELTS test fee for 2025. Whereas, INR 17,000 is the basic registration fee students must pay at the time of registration for the IELTS test. However, some extra charges are applied to test cancellations, rescheduling, and rechecking.Also Read:
Advantages of the IELTS Paper Based Test
Here are some important advantages of the IELTS Paper Based Test:- Familiar Format: Ideal for those accustomed to writing on paper.
- Control Over Answers: You can underline, highlight, and review answers easily.
- Reliable Speaking Test: Face-to-face interaction ensures accurate assessment.
IELTS Paper Based Test Preparation Tips
- Practice Writing by Hand: Improve handwriting clarity and speed for the Writing section.
- Use Official Materials: Practice with IELTS preparation books and past papers.
- Time Management: Simulate full tests under timed conditions.
- Work on Vocabulary: Expand your academic and general vocabulary.
- Seek Feedback: Get professional feedback on Writing and Speaking practice.
IELTS Paper Based Test FAQs
Q. What is an IELTS paper-based test?
Ans. The IELTS paper-based test is a traditional exam format where candidates complete Listening, Reading, and Writing sections on paper and attend a face-to-face Speaking test.
Q. Is paper-based IELTS easier?
Ans. It depends on personal preference. Many find it easier due to familiarity with handwriting and paper-based tasks.
Q. Is a 7.5 IELTS score easy?
Ans. Scoring 7.5 requires strong English proficiency and preparation.
Q. How can I get 8.5 in IELTS writing?
Ans. Focus on task response, coherence, grammar, and vocabulary. Practice extensively and seek professional feedback.
Q- Does IELTS repeat questions?
Ans- Interviewers for the IELTS will only ask a question once. They won't answer the question if students ask them to repeat it three times. They will just continue with the remainder of the interview.
Q- Is IELTS speaking marked immediately?
Ans- The IELTS speaking exam is a three-part, in-person interview with a single examiner that lasts 11–14 minutes. The exam is recorded, but as soon as it's over, the examiner tests the results to calculate the band score.
Q- How many attempts can be taken for IELTS?
Ans- There are no limitations on how many times students may apply to take the IELTS exam. Students are allowed to retake the exam as many as necessary. They can re-register if they missed the exam or if they want to do better than they did.
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