Date of the last update: 24.02.2026
Are you planning to study abroad, emigrate, or perhaps you need formal proof of your English proficiency for your CV? Choosing between the IELTS exam and Cambridge English certificates (B2 First, C1 Advanced, C2 Proficiency) is a decision that should be based on your goals and long-term plans.
Although both options are highly respected and widely accepted by employers, universities, and institutions worldwide, there are important differences worth understanding before selecting a test date and registering for an exam.
Table of contents:
- A Certificate for Immediate Needs or a Long-Term Investment?
- Exam Format: Paper or Computer?
- Exam Format — Communication or Language Structures?
- Waiting Time for Results
- Accommodations for Candidates with Special Needs
- Before Choosing an Exam — One Key Rule
- Quick Comparison: IELTS vs Cambridge
- IELTS or Cambridge English — What Should You Choose?
- FAQ
You can read this article in 4 minutes.
A Certificate for Immediate Needs or a Long-Term Investment?
The first question to ask yourself is: how long do I need proof of my language competence?
IELTS – a goal-oriented language test
IELTS (Academic or General Training) is most commonly required for university admissions abroad and visa procedures (including the UK, Canada, and Australia). It is a purpose-driven exam – you take it to meet a specific formal requirement.
It is important to remember that IELTS results have limited validity – they are typically accepted for 2 years. After this period, institutions may require renewed proof of language proficiency.
Cambridge English – proof of competence with no expiration date
Cambridge English exams (e.g., B2 First, C1 Advanced, C2 Proficiency) provide permanent confirmation of language level. Their main advantage is lifetime validity – once obtained, the certificate does not expire.
This is especially beneficial if you treat the exam as a long-term investment in your professional development or want to formally complete a particular stage of language learning.
Exam Format: Paper or Computer?
The method of taking the exam may matter more than it initially seems.
In Poland, from 2026 onwards, IELTS is available exclusively in a computer-based format. This means all written components are completed on computers at an Examination Centre. For candidates accustomed to typing, this can be a significant advantage.
Cambridge English exams are available both in paper-based and computer-based (Digital) formats. If you work better with printed texts, like highlighting information, and find it easier to focus when writing by hand, this may be an important factor in your decision.
Important: A computer-based exam does not mean a remote exam. Both IELTS and Cambridge computer-based tests are taken in person at an Examination Centre.
If you are looking for a test you can take from home, learn more about the Linguaskill exam.
Exam Format — Communication or Language Structures?
The differences in exam structure are clear and often determine which test candidates perceive as “easier.”
IELTS focuses on practical communication skills. It does not include a separate grammar section – language structures are assessed within written and spoken responses. The Listening section is played only once, and the pace of tasks can be demanding.
Cambridge English exams have a more predictable structure. They include a separate Use of English section that thoroughly tests grammar and vocabulary knowledge. Listening recordings are played twice.
Your choice therefore depends on your strengths – whether you perform better in dynamic communication tasks or in exercises requiring precise control of language structures.
Waiting Time for Results
For many candidates, timing is crucial.
For computer-based IELTS, online results and the e-certificate are usually available within 1–5 days. This is extremely important if application deadlines are approaching.
Candidates automatically receive an electronic certificate. If a paper version is also required, it must be requested via email from the Examination Centre. The paper certificate is issued free of charge within 1–2 days.
Computer-based Cambridge English exams typically provide online results within 5–10 days. For paper-based exams, the waiting time is longer – usually 4–6 weeks.
The waiting time for the physical Cambridge certificate is also longer:
- 4–5 weeks from the exam date (computer-based version),
- 8–11 weeks from the exam date (paper-based version).
If you need confirmation quickly for recruitment or visa procedures, IELTS may be the more practical option.
Accommodations for Candidates with Special Needs
Both IELTS and Cambridge offer exam accommodations for candidates with dyslexia, dysgraphia, ADHD, and other learning difficulties.
In Poland, IELTS accommodations are available for computer-based exams.
More information: click here.
For Cambridge exams, these procedures are available only for paper-based versions.
More information: click here.
Before Choosing an Exam — One Key Rule
Always check which exam and which level is accepted by the institution you are applying to.
Not every university accepts both exams. Not every institution recognizes every level. A specific IELTS band score or a precisely defined Cambridge certificate (e.g., C1 Advanced instead of B2 First) may be required.
Verify the requirements first — only then register for the exam.
Quick Comparison: IELTS vs Cambridge:
| Feature | IELTS | Cambridge (FCE, CAE, CPE) |
| Validity | Usually accepted for 2 years | Lifetime validity |
| Format in Poland | Computer only | Paper or computer |
| Grammar | No separate grammar section | Separate Use of English section |
| Listening | Played once | Played twice |
Online results | 1–5 days | 5–10 days (computer) 4–6 weeks (paper) |
| Certificate | 1–5 days (e-certificate; paper version issued upon request) | 4–5 weeks (computer) 8–11 weeks (paper) |
| Approx. price | 995 PLN | 800 – 930 PLN (depending on level) |
IELTS or Cambridge English — What Should You Choose?
Choose IELTS if:
- You need results quickly,
- You are applying to a foreign university or undergoing a visa process,
- You work well on a computer under time pressure.
Choose Cambridge English if:
- You want a certificate without an expiration date,
- You treat the exam as a long-term investment,
- You feel confident with tasks testing language structures.
The decision should be guided by your plans and personal preferences. Neither exam is inherently “easier” or “better.” The right choice depends on your needs and goals.
If you need help making a decision or planning your preparation – contact us. We will be happy to answer your questions about IELTS and Cambridge English exams.
FAQ — Frequently Asked Questions About IELTS and Cambridge English Exams
Is IELTS or Cambridge English better for studying abroad?
IELTS is most commonly required for university admissions abroad and visa procedures. Before choosing an exam, you should always verify which certificate and score are accepted by the specific institution.
What is the main difference between IELTS and Cambridge English exams?
The main difference lies in validity and purpose. IELTS is typically taken to meet a specific formal requirement and is usually accepted for 2 years, while Cambridge English certificates provide permanent proof of language proficiency with no expiration date.
Does the IELTS certificate expire?
Yes. IELTS results are typically accepted for 2 years, after which institutions may request updated proof of English proficiency.
Do Cambridge English certificates expire?
No. Cambridge English certificates such as B2 First, C1 Advanced, and C2 Proficiency have lifetime validity and do not expire once obtained.
Is IELTS available as a paper-based exam?
No. From 2026 onwards in Poland, IELTS is available only in a computer-based format and is taken in person at an Examination Centre.
Can Cambridge English exams be taken on paper or computer?
Yes. Cambridge English exams are available in both paper-based and computer-based (Digital) formats, allowing candidates to choose the format that suits their preferences.
Does a computer-based exam mean taking the test from home?
No. Computer-based IELTS and Cambridge exams are still taken in person at an Examination Centre. The computer format refers only to how the exam tasks are completed.
Which exam provides results faster – IELTS or Cambridge English?
Computer-based IELTS usually delivers online results and an e-certificate within 1–5 days. Cambridge English results are typically available within 5–10 days for computer-based exams and 4–6 weeks for paper-based exams.
How do the exam formats differ between IELTS and Cambridge English?
IELTS focuses on practical communication and does not include a separate grammar section. Cambridge English exams include a dedicated Use of English section that specifically tests grammar and vocabulary knowledge.
How many times are Listening recordings played in each exam?
In IELTS, Listening recordings are played once. In Cambridge English exams, recordings are played twice.
Which exam should I choose for visa applications?
IELTS is commonly required for visa procedures, including applications to countries such as the UK, Canada, and Australia.
When is Cambridge English a better choice than IELTS?
Cambridge English may be a better option if you want a lifetime certificate and treat the exam as a long-term investment in your professional or educational development.
Are accommodations available for candidates with special needs?
Yes. Both IELTS and Cambridge English offer accommodations for candidates with dyslexia, dysgraphia, ADHD, and other learning difficulties, although availability depends on exam format.
Is one exam easier than the other?
No. The article emphasizes that neither exam is inherently easier or better. The right choice depends on your goals, strengths, and personal preferences.
