Blog
What are the differences between CBT and IBT? A detailed explanation of their characteristics and how they differ from PBT.
- CBT
- IBT
CBT and IBT differ in terms of rigor, handling of system failures, and operational burden.
This article explains the differences between CBT and IBT, as well as the differences between CBT and PBT, and how to choose the appropriate Test Format for your organization.
What are the differences between CBT and IBT? A detailed explanation of their characteristics and how they differ from PBT.
As the digitalization of exams progresses, we are seeing terms like CBT and IBT more and more often. Since the testing locations, strictness levels, and operational burden differ for each format, exam organizers may sometimes be unsure which format is best suited to their organization's exams.
This article explains the characteristics and differences between CBT, IBT, and PBT, as well as how to choose Test Format for you.
CBT is a general term for computer-based Test Format
CBT（Computer Based Testing）is a general term for computer-based Test Format. Its characteristic feature is that everything from displaying questions to recording answers and scoring is completed digitally. Typically, questions are displayed on a monitor, and Candidate answer by clicking or typing on a keyboard.
CBT questions are not limited to text and still images; audio and video can also be incorporated, making it possible to include questions that require listening comprehension or procedural verification. Since the questions can be presented in different combinations and order from the item bank registered on the server, the test content can be tailored to each Candidate, which has the advantage of reducing the risk of cheating and other fraudulent activities.
Furthermore, it is Test Format well-suited to exams that require a high degree of rigor and fairness, as it facilitates the design of standardized identity verification and supervision procedures, the utilization of a nationwide network of Test Center, and log-based audit responses.
Currently, CBT is not limited to private certifications but is also used in employment exams, educational institution tests, and university entrance exams.
IBT is a general term for tests that Candidate take at home or elsewhere.
Internet-Based Testing (IBT) is a method of taking exams via the internet, where Candidate can take the test from a designated location such as their home or workplace. Because it eliminates the need to physically gather people at a test Test Center, it is less subject to geographical constraints and offers the advantage of increasing testing opportunities. The test date and time can also be flexibly set, making it easier to schedule the test to suit Candidate 's convenience.
While Test Center setup and maintenance costs can be reduced, operational design elements such as remote monitoring, identity verification, and inquiry handling tend to increase.
PBT is a general term for group examinations that use paper test papers.
Paper-Based Testing (PBT) is a method where Candidate gather at Test Center, use paper question papers, and fill in their answers on an answer sheet or mark sheet before submitting it.
The format of taking the same test simultaneously at multiple Test Center nationwide, like the Common University Entrance Examination (formerly the National Center Test for University Admissions), is a typical example of a paper-based test (PBT). While the questions are limited to what can be expressed on paper, it also has the characteristic of allowing the experience of those involved to accumulate.
The difference between CBT and IBT
While both CBT and IBT involve answering questions on a computer, they differ significantly in terms of testing locations and how they are managed.
Here, let's look at the main differences between the two, which are not listed in the table below, such as the rigor of the examinations, how to handle system failures, and the operational burden.
The main differences between CBT and IBT
| IBT (home-based) | CBT (test center type) | |
|---|---|---|
| Examination Test Center | You can take the test anywhere as long as you have an internet environment. | Test centers located in various locations owned by the test administration company |
| Examination terminal | Computer owned/arranged by Candidate | Computers located at the test center |
| Identification | Verify official Identification Document through camera | At the test center, we will Identification Document such as your driver's license, My Number card, or passport. |
| Fraud prevention measures | While monitoring via cameras is possible, the operational design must take into account that the examination environment differs for each Candidate | Supervisors will be stationed at Test Center throughout the exam to monitor the students. |
| Question format | While it is possible to use images, audio, and video content in the questions, the impact of Candidate 's internet environment and device specifications is unavoidable. | It is possible to create a variety of questions using images, audio, and video content in a fair environment. |
| Number of people who can take the test | There is generally no limit on the number of people. | Depending on the availability of seats at the test center. |
Strictness
There are significant differences in rigor between CBT and IBT. IBT offers greater flexibility in terms of location and time, making it convenient for Candidate. Because it can be taken in a private space such as home, the burden of travel is reduced, making it easier to provide testing opportunities to people living in rural areas and busy working professionals.
On the other hand, for exams where rigor is paramount, such as entrance exams, national qualifications, and public certifications, computer-based testing (CBT) with invigilators present at Test Center is more suitable. This is because the more the pass/fail result directly impacts social credibility, the more important face-to-face identity verification and invigilator supervision of the exam tend to be.
Responding to system failures, etc.
The way in which preparations are made for problems On the test day, such as system failures, also differs significantly between CBT and IBT. In CBT, because there are staff members at Test Center, terminal and network problems can be addressed by on-site or remote technicians. Furthermore, operations such as providing alternative seats and restarting the exam can be handled smoothly.
On the other hand, with IBT (Internet-Based Testing), it is assumed that there will be differences in each Candidate 's communication environment and device specifications. Therefore, it is important to clearly define in advance the conditions for retaking the test, how to handle interruptions, and the sharing of contact points for inquiries.
operational load
There are significant differences in operational burden between CBT and IBT. CBT requires considerable costs not only for securing test centers and Test Center but also for supervision. On the other hand, IBT has the advantage of standardizing the operation On the test day, making it easier to maintain a consistent level of quality at any Test Center.
Furthermore, if the test administrator reserves Test Center for you, tasks such as schedule management and supervisor shift scheduling become unnecessary.
While IBT (Internet-Based Testing) can reduce Test Center costs, a disadvantage is the burden of ongoing operational design, including arranging remote monitoring, providing support via chat and phone, and addressing cheating. Because each Candidate has a different testing environment, setting up systems for pre-test checks, system verification, and individual troubleshooting requires considerable effort. In the medium to long term, it is advisable to compare and evaluate total costs, including the number of inquiries, the retest rate, and monitoring costs.
Differences between CBT and PBT
Comparing CBT and PBT, there is a significant difference in the human and material costs incurred per exam. With PBT, the operational costs are enormous, from receiving applications and securing Test Center to printing, transporting, and storing question and answer sheets, and then grading and compiling the results. Therefore, PBT tends to be limited to only a few times a year at most, and is not suitable for on-demand testing or short-term re-testing.
Furthermore, PBT (Paper-Based Testing) questions are limited to what can be reproduced on paper. In contrast, CBT (Computer-Based Testing) questions can incorporate videos, audio, and interactive elements, offering greater flexibility in exam design.
There are differences between paper and digital in terms of exam opportunities, application deadlines, speed of result notification, security, reduction of printing and transportation costs, and reduction of environmental impact. Depending on the purpose of the exam and available resources, you should carefully consider whether to use paper or digital as the primary method, or to use both.
The main differences between CBT and PBT
| PBT (paper test) | CBT (test center type) | |
|---|---|---|
| Opportunity to take the exam | Held once to several times a year | You can choose between year-round or intermittent events. |
| Application/Change |
The application deadline needs to be set early, and changes are often not permitted. (1-2 months ago) |
Reservations, changes, and cancellations are possible up until just before the exam date (3 business days prior). |
| Implementation cost | Fixed costs | Pay-per-use |
| Test Center | Test sponsor will arrange and secure the necessary equipment according to the budget and set it up in advance. | You can choose from test Test Center operated by the test administrator; no arrangements or prior preparations are necessary. |
| Question format | Limited to what can be expressed on paper, and using audio playback equipment. | A wide variety of questions can be presented using image, audio, and video content. |
| Test items | All Candidate take the same questions | The question format can vary depending on Candidate |
| Grading and result notification | The marks will be read or graded by a staff member, and after tabulation, the results will be notified approximately 1-2 months later. | Instant grading; results can be checked immediately after the exam. |
| Security | There is a risk of losing answer sheets and other documents containing personal information. | Based on high security standards, multiple advanced encryption and protection functions are implemented to reduce risks. |
| Environmental aspect | A large amount of CO2 is generated due to the printing of large quantities of paper such as question papers, answer sheets, and bulletin boards at Test Center, and the transportation of paper throughout the country. | Eliminates paper printing and transportation, reduces CO2 and contributes to environmental conservation |
*Operation will vary depending on the organizer's and contractor's design. Please check the contract details when implementing the system.
How to choose Test Format suitable for your organization
Choose based on the rigor of the exam.
Choose based on flexibility of exam opportunities and cost.
IBT (Internet-Based Testing) can be taken in a familiar environment, such as the office or home. Furthermore, it can be taken at night or during spare time, naturally expanding the opportunities for taking the test. In addition, IBT can help reduce costs such as Test Center fees and personnel expenses.
With Prometric 's extensive experience in both CBT and IBT, you can design the optimal test for your organization.
The difference between CBT and IBT goes beyond just the location of the test. Understanding the differences in design philosophy—how to ensure rigor, fairness, and reproducibility of the test's operation—will help you choose the format that best suits your organization. CBT makes it easier to establish a strict supervision system, while IBT makes it easier to expand the number of test-takers.
Prometric has extensive experience in administering exams using various formats, including CBT and IBT with remote monitoring. We can assist you from the initial stages of considering exam implementation to designing an exam that meets your specific requirements. If you are considering implementing CBT or IBT, please contact Prometric, where we support the creation of a safe and secure environment for Candidate.
Questions about introducing CBT, consultation on operation, fees, etc.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us.