Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 30 October 2026
Paper and computer side by side
IDP's IELTS Community experts explain the difference: on paper you write answers in the question book and have 10 minutes at the end to transfer them (IDP's Listening guide says the same); on computer you enter answers straight into the computer as the test goes along, so there are no extra 10 minutes (IDP Community). ielts.org's General Training format page still lists Listening as about 30 minutes plus 10 minutes to transfer answers to an answer sheet (ielts.org).
| IELTS on paper | IELTS on computer | |
|---|---|---|
| Recording | About 30 minutes | About 30 minutes |
| Where you answer | Question booklet, then answer sheet | Typed on screen as you listen |
| Time after the recording | 10 minutes to transfer | 2 minutes to review |
| Notes | On the question booklet | On a notes sheet, not marked |
Is paper Listening still offered?
ielts.org announced that the paper-based test is being withdrawn from mid-2026, with Writing on Paper offered in selected countries (ielts.org). In October 2026 an IDP expert said all IELTS tests are now delivered on computer, and that with Writing on Paper you still answer the Listening and Reading questions on computer (IDP Community). So for most test takers today, there is no 10-minute transfer period.
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How to use the time you do get
IDP says that on computer you should type each answer as soon as you hear it, and that you have only 2 minutes to review at the end (IDP). Use those 2 minutes to check spelling, plurals and word limits rather than to rethink answers you were unsure of.
You can write notes on a notes sheet during Listening (IDP), but an IDP expert says the notes are not looked at or marked, so every answer must be in the computer before the test ends (IDP Community).
Frequently asked questions
How long is IELTS Listening on computer?+
About 30 minutes of recordings, with answers typed as you go, plus 2 minutes at the end to review, per IDP.
Is there transfer time in computer-delivered IELTS Listening?+
No. An IDP expert confirms there are no extra 10 minutes on computer.
Can I write answers on paper and type them later?+
Notes on the sheet are allowed but not marked. Only answers typed into the computer count.
Does Writing on Paper give Listening transfer time?+
No. With Writing on Paper, Listening and Reading are still answered on computer.
Keep reading
Related
- Is there transfer time in IELTS Reading?
- IELTS paper test ending
- IELTS Listening test format
- Free IELTS Listening practice
- All 3112 guides
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