You can take IELTS your way, with options to take IELTS on paper, IELTS on computer or IELTS on computer with Writing on Paper in a test centre, or IELTS Online at home.
IELTS on computer (Writing on Paper)
Writing on Paper is a new option for the IELTS on computer test and allows you to take the Writing section with a pen and paper. If you choose Writing on Paper, your Writing component tasks will be shown on screen, but you’ll complete the tasks in pen on an IELTS Writing Answer Sheet.
IELTS on computer
Take the test via computer at an official test centre. Questions for the Listening, Reading and Writing sections will be given on-screen and you’ll input your answers directly onto the computer. Your Speaking test will be live with an examiner. Results typically arrive in 1-5 days.
* Results for IELTS on computer are usually available in 1 to 5 days after you finish all components of your test. Please note that if the result release day falls on a Sunday or a public holiday, the test report form (TRF) will be distributed on the next working day.
IELTS Online
Take the IELTS Academic test remotely at home with the right equipment and a stable internet connection. You’ll complete the Listening, Reading and Writing sections on computer, and your Speaking test via a video call with an examiner.
IELTS on paper
If you choose this option, you will write the answers to the IELTS Listening, IELTS Reading and IELTS Writing sections on paper. The IELTS Speaking test will be conducted face-to-face with a trained IELTS Examiner.
Your results will be available up to 13 days after the test date.
If you have any special requirements, you should take the paper-based test.
The British Council and IDP* will no longer offer IELTS on paper in Hong Kong starting from 1 July 2026. You can still take your IELTS test, the world’s most trusted English Language test, on computer. IELTS on computers offers results typically within 1-2 days and is available throughout the week, offering you more flexibility.
* The IELTS test is jointly owned by British Council, IELTS Australia Pty Ltd (ABN 84 008 664 766), which is wholly owned by IDP Education Ltd (‘IDP: IELTS Australia’) and Cambridge Assessment English (part of the University of Cambridge), collectively referred to as the IELTS TEST PARTNERS or IELTS PARTNER.