Is the IELTS paper-based test being discontinued?

Writing on Paper is a version of IELTS on computer, not a paper test. Listening and Reading are on screen. In Writing the tasks appear on screen, but you answer by hand, in pen, on an IELTS Writing Answer Sheet. The tasks, timing and scoring are identical to typed Writing, per ielts.org. It is offered for Academic and General Training, in selected countries.

A field trial in November 2025 compared Writing on Paper with the old paper test. IELTS reports that scores were effectively the same and participants found it fair and easy to use (ielts.org for organisations).

UKVI tests: Writing on Paper is not available for IELTS for UKVI, and the announcement says the UK visa test will only be offered fully digital (ielts.org).

Results: ielts.org says Writing on Paper results arrive within five days of the test, and the Test Report Form does not show which Writing mode you chose (ielts.org). The British Council results page currently gives 13 days for Writing on Paper (British Council), so check the date your own centre quotes.

One Skill Retake is now open to Writing on Paper candidates, but the retake must be in the same mode as the original test (ielts.org).

India example: IDP India's fee page carries a notice that IELTS on Paper has been discontinued and lists Writing on Paper at INR 19,000, the same fee as IELTS on computer (IDP India). In Writing on Paper the British Council supplies black ink pens; pencils are not allowed (British Council).

Fees and policies are set per country and test centre, and they change. Check the page for the country where you will sit the test before you book or pay. This guide is general information, not official IELTS advice.