{"id":9124,"date":"2026-03-14T10:02:18","date_gmt":"2026-03-14T09:02:18","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/egzaminy-cambridge.pl\/?p=9124"},"modified":"2026-03-14T10:20:09","modified_gmt":"2026-03-14T09:20:09","slug":"cambridge-exams-in-the-computer","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/egzaminy-cambridge.pl\/en\/cambridge-exams-in-the-computer\/","title":{"rendered":"Cambridge Exams in the Computer-Based Format \u2014 Everything You Need to Know"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p><em>Date of last update: 14.03.2026<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Cambridge exams in the computer (Computer-Based or Digital) format are becoming increasingly popular each year. For many candidates, they are a more convenient alternative to the paper-based version, mainly due to faster results and the comfort of working on a computer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, it is important to emphasise one key point from the start:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>A computer-based exam is NOT an online exam.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It still takes place in person at an authorised exam centre, under the supervision of exam staff, and in the same controlled conditions as the paper-based version.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Below you will find everything you need to know before choosing this exam format.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Table of contents:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/egzaminy-cambridge.pl\/en\/cambridge-exams-in-the-computer\/#what-is-a-cambridge-english\">What is a Cambridge English computer-based exam?<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/egzaminy-cambridge.pl\/en\/cambridge-exams-in-the-computer\/#cambridge-exam-look-like\">What does a computer-based Cambridge exam look like?<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/egzaminy-cambridge.pl\/en\/cambridge-exams-in-the-computer\/#cambridge-exam-key-features\">Computer-Based Cambridge Exam- Key Features<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/egzaminy-cambridge.pl\/en\/cambridge-exams-in-the-computer\/#cambridge-exam-faster-results\">Computer-Based Cambridge Exam- Faster results<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/egzaminy-cambridge.pl\/en\/cambridge-exams-in-the-computer\/#what-is-the-exam-day-like\">What is the exam day like?<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/egzaminy-cambridge.pl\/en\/cambridge-exams-in-the-computer\/#special-exam-arrangements\">Special exam arrangements in the computer-based format<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/egzaminy-cambridge.pl\/en\/cambridge-exams-in-the-computer\/#is-the-computer-based-exam\">Is the computer-based exam more difficult?<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/egzaminy-cambridge.pl\/en\/cambridge-exams-in-the-computer\/#summary\">Summary<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/egzaminy-cambridge.pl\/en\/cambridge-exams-in-the-computer\/#faq-cambridge-computer\">FAQ- Cambridge Computer- Based Exams<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p><em>You can read this article in 5 minutes.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What is a Cambridge English computer-based exam?<a id=\"what-is-a-cambridge-english\"><\/a>\n<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>A computer-based exam assesses exactly the same language skills as the paper-based version:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The syllabus content is identical,<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The level of difficulty remains the same,<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The assessment criteria do not differ,<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The Cambridge English certificate looks exactly the same (there is no information about the exam format on the certificate),<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The exam fee is also the same for both paper-based and computer-based versions.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>The only difference lies in how answers are provided \u2014 candidates complete tasks on a computer instead of a paper exam booklet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What does a computer-based Cambridge exam look like?<a id=\"cambridge-exam-look-like\"><\/a>\n<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>All equipment required for the computer-based exam is provided by the exam centre.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>During the computer-based Cambridge exam:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>You work at an individual computer workstation,<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>You use headphones during the Listening section,<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>You select or type answers directly in the exam system,<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>You can still make handwritten notes \u2014 simply ask exam staff for paper and a pen or pencil.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Computer-Based Cambridge Exam \u2014 Key Features<a id=\"cambridge-exam-key-features\"><\/a>\n<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>On-screen timer<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>A clock is visible on your monitor throughout the exam, showing how much time remains. This makes it easier to manage your pace and stay in control of your time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"2\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Automatic word count in the Writing section<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>During Writing, the system displays an automatic word count showing the current number of words in your text. This is a major advantage \u2014 you no longer need to count words manually.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"3\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Easy text editing<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>You can:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Edit parts of your text without crossing anything out,<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Highlight and make notes in Reading texts,<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Quickly introduce corrections and improvements.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Computer-Based Cambridge Exam \u2014 Faster results<a id=\"cambridge-exam-faster-results\"><\/a>\n<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>One of the biggest advantages of computer-based exams is the waiting time for results.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Online results<\/strong> are usually available within 5\u201310 working days after the exam date.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"2\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>The paper Cambridge English certificate<\/strong> arrives at the exam centre approximately 4\u20135 weeks after the exam date.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>The exam centre will notify you by email once your certificate is ready for collection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What is the exam day like?<a id=\"what-is-the-exam-day-like\"><\/a>\n<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>In the computer-based format, the following components:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Reading &amp; Use of English,<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Writing,<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Listening<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>are taken on a computer, on the same day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Speaking test is usually held on the same day as the written components and is conducted face-to-face with an examiner.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Special exam arrangements in the computer-based format<a id=\"special-exam-arrangements\"><\/a>\n<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Currently, special arrangements for candidates with specific educational needs (such as extra time or adapted exam materials) are available only in the paper-based exam format.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you plan to apply for special arrangements, it is advisable to contact the exam centre before registering to ensure you choose the appropriate exam format.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Is the computer-based exam more difficult?<a id=\"is-the-computer-based-exam\"><\/a>\n<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>No. The level of difficulty is exactly the same as in the paper-based version. The choice mainly depends on your personal preferences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The computer-based format may be particularly suitable if:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>You feel comfortable working on a computer,<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>You would like to receive your results quickly.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Summary<a id=\"summary\"><\/a>\n<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Both computer-based and paper-based exams include the same task types and are assessed according to identical criteria.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Cambridge computer-based exams are a modern yet fully in-person way of taking the exam, offering greater comfort during the test and significantly faster access to results.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you are used to working on a computer and would like to receive your results sooner, the computer-based exam may be the best choice for you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">FAQ \u2014 Cambridge Computer-Based Exams<a id=\"faq-cambridge-computer\"><\/a>\n<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Is the Cambridge computer-based exam the same as an online exam?<\/strong><br>No. A Cambridge computer-based exam is <strong>not an online exam<\/strong>. It is taken <strong>in person at an authorised exam centre<\/strong>, under the supervision of exam staff and in the same controlled conditions as the paper-based version.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Is the computer-based Cambridge exam more difficult than the paper-based version?<\/strong><br>No. The <strong>level of difficulty, syllabus, and assessment criteria are exactly the same<\/strong> for both formats. The only difference is that answers are entered on a computer instead of being written in a paper exam booklet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>How quickly do you receive results from a computer-based Cambridge exam?<\/strong><br>Results for computer-based Cambridge exams are usually available <strong>online within 5\u201310 working days after the exam date<\/strong>, which is significantly faster than traditional paper-based exam timelines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Do Cambridge certificates show whether the exam was computer-based or paper-based?<\/strong><br>No. The <strong>Cambridge English certificate looks exactly the same regardless of the exam format<\/strong>, and it does not include any information about whether the test was taken on paper or on a computer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Which parts of the Cambridge exam are completed on a computer?<\/strong><br>In the computer-based format, the <strong>Reading &amp; Use of English, Writing, and Listening sections are completed on a computer<\/strong> on the same day. The <strong>Speaking test is still conducted face-to-face with an examiner<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Can you take notes during a computer-based Cambridge exam?<\/strong><br>Yes. Even though the exam is completed on a computer, candidates <strong>can request paper and a pen or pencil from exam staff<\/strong> to make handwritten notes during the test.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Who should consider taking the computer-based Cambridge exam?<\/strong><br>The computer-based format may be a good choice for candidates who <strong>feel comfortable working on a computer and want to receive exam results faster<\/strong>.<br><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Cambridge exams in the computer (Computer-Based or Digital) format are becoming increasingly popular each year. For many candidates, they are a more convenient alternative to the paper-based version, mainly due to faster results and the comfort of working on a computer.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":12,"featured_media":9125,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":true,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[110],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-9124","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-uncategorized"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/egzaminy-cambridge.pl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/9124","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/egzaminy-cambridge.pl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/egzaminy-cambridge.pl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/egzaminy-cambridge.pl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/12"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/egzaminy-cambridge.pl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=9124"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/egzaminy-cambridge.pl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/9124\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":9137,"href":"https:\/\/egzaminy-cambridge.pl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/9124\/revisions\/9137"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/egzaminy-cambridge.pl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/9125"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/egzaminy-cambridge.pl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=9124"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/egzaminy-cambridge.pl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=9124"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/egzaminy-cambridge.pl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=9124"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}