The Paper-Based IELTS Mock Test offers one of the two formats of the internationally recognised IELTS test, accepted by thousands of institutions and employers worldwide. It assesses the candidate’s ability to use English across four key skills: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. It is suitable for Academic and General Training purposes. In the Paper-Based Mock Test, Listening, Reading, and Writing tests are completed on paper at a test centre, while the Speaking test is conducted online via a video interview with an experienced expert at a pre-booked date and time.
These mock tests can be booked on the dates listed on the website and are conducted at approved Prep Centres across the country. The format, timing, and content match the real PB-IELTS test experience. Candidates receive their results within 48 hours, enabling them to assess their readiness and plan their IELTS preparation effectively.
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For information about how IELTS band scores map to CEFR levels, click here
Paper Based Format |
The four sections should be attempted in the following order:
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Timing |
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No. of questions |
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Task types |
Listening: The listening test format is the same for Academic and General Training. A variety of question types are used, chosen from the following: multiple-choice, matching, plan/map/diagram labelling, form/note/table/flow chart/summary completion, and sentence completion. The test is approximately 30 minutes long, with an additional 10 minutes to transfer your answers to an answer sheet. Reading: AC Reading: There are three sections; the total text length is 2150 to 2750 words. Each passage is accompanied by several questions presented using a variety of task types: Multiple choice, True/False/Not Given, Yes/No/Not Given, matching information/ headings/features/sentence endings, sentence completion, diagram label completion and summary/note/table/flowchart completion. Texts may contain diagrams, graphs, or illustrations. They are taken from books, journals, magazines, and newspapers and have been written for a non-specialist audience. GT Reading: There are three sections of increasing difficulty. Section 1 may contain two or three short or several shorter texts on everyday topics. Section 2 contains two short, work-related, factual texts. Section 3 has one longer text on a topic of general interest. Texts are taken from various sources, such as advertisements, company handbooks, official documents, books and newspapers. Writing:There are two tasks, and both must be completed. Candidates must write their answers directly on the answer sheets provided. AC Writing: Task 1 requires candidates to describe some visual information in their own words (one or more graphs, tables or charts, or a diagram). This task tests the ability to write a clear, relevant, well-organised argument, give evidence or examples to support ideas and use language accurately. They need to write at least 150 words in about 20 minutes. In Task 2, they are given a topic to write about. They need to write at least 250 words in about 40 minutes. GT Writing: In Task 1, candidates must respond to a situation or an email or letter by writing, for example, asking for information or explaining a situation. They need to write at least 150 words in about 20 minutes. In Task 2, they are given a point of view, argument or problem which they need to discuss. They need to write at least 250 words in about 40 minutes. Speaking: The test has three parts, each following a specific pattern of tasks to test speaking ability in different ways. In Part 1, the examiner begins by recording some administrative information. The examiner then introduces themselves, checks the candidate’s identity, and asks general questions on a few familiar topics. In Part 2, the examiner shows a card on the screen asking candidates to discuss a particular topic for one to two minutes. They are given points that they should cover. They have one minute to prepare for the long turn. In Part 3, The candidate discusses issues related to the Part 2 topic with the examiner in an abstract and general way. |
Answering |
Listening, Reading and Writing: Write your answers in the answer boxes on your answer sheets. Ensure that your answers do not contain spelling or grammar mistakes, as these will be penalised. Speaking: Speak clearly, in a natural tone. |
Prepare for the PB-IELTS Test with our authentic PB Mock Test designed to reflect the actual test experience.
Practice Extensively
While preparing for the PB-IELTS test, it is essential to become familiar with each type of task. Focus primarily on practising the tasks you find most challenging. Being able to understand what each set of instructions requires quickly will help you save valuable time during the actual test.
Identify and Eliminate Common Errors
After completing any practice test, review the mistakes you made. Were there issues with word limits, spelling, grammar, or misleading answer choices? Do keep a record of these errors, categorise them by type, and allocate extra time to address and correct them through focused practice.
Build Your Vocabulary
A strong vocabulary is key to performing well on the IELTS test. A wide range of words will help you better understand questions and tasks. Learn to recognise synonyms and paraphrased content, as this is crucial for identifying the correct answers. IELTS practice materials are an excellent source for discovering and learning new words.
Time Yourself
Practising IELTS under timed conditions builds speed, focus, and stamina. Each module has strict time limits, so timing helps you avoid spending too long on difficult questions. In Writing and Reading, especially, good time management ensures completion. Simulating real test timing improves discipline, reduces stress, and boosts confidence, leading to better performance on the actual exam day.
Review Your Answers
Reviewing your answers and comparing them with model responses helps identify mistakes and understand how to improve. Model answers show the structure, vocabulary, and coherence needed for high scores. They are especially useful in Writing and Speaking. Analysing your errors and learning from examples sharpens your techniques and prepares you to meet IELTS scoring expectations confidently.
Listening:
Stay focused throughout the audio, as it is played only once. Read the questions in advance, follow the speaker’s cues, and write answers as you listen. Spelling and grammar matter, so careful attention is essential. Accurately transferring answers within the given time is also important.
Reading:
Manage time wisely, spending no more than 20 minutes per passage. It is advised to skim the text for the main idea and then scan for specific answers. Understanding question types and avoiding overthinking is crucial. Highlighting keywords and eliminating wrong choices can improve accuracy and speed.
Writing:
Analyse the question carefully and plan responses before writing. Task 1 requires a clear structure and factual description, while Task 2 demands a well-organised essay with arguments and examples. One should allocate time for reviewing grammar, vocabulary, and coherence. Meeting word limits is essential for both tasks.
Speaking:
Speak clearly and confidently, using a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures. It is crucial to expand answers naturally and stay relevant to the questions. Pausing briefly to think is acceptable, but overusing fillers should be avoided. Maintaining eye contact and a conversational tone helps create a strong impression.
PB-IELTS Listening:
Listen carefully, as the recording plays only once. Use the time given before each section to read the questions and predict possible answers. Write answers clearly on the question paper and transfer them accurately to the answer sheet during the final 10 minutes. Spelling, grammar, and adhering to word limits are crucial for scoring well.
PB-IELTS Reading:
Time management is essential across the three sections. Use skimming to understand the overall idea and scanning to locate specific information quickly. Pay close attention to question instructions and avoid making assumptions. Write answers clearly on the answer sheet, as no extra transfer time is provided in the Reading test.
PB-IELTS Writing:
Take a few minutes to plan each task before writing. Ensure your ideas are organised into clear paragraphs with proper linking phrases. Stick to the word count and avoid repeating the task prompt. Reserve time at the end to check for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors before submitting your answer sheets.
PB-IELTS Speaking:
Log in a few minutes early and test the headphones and mic. Stay calm before your face-to-face interview with the examiner. Speak clearly and confidently, using a wide range of vocabulary and structures. Listen carefully to each question and respond with relevant, extended answers. Maintain a natural tone and avoid memorised responses to make a strong impression.
Sample
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