PTE Vs IELTS
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PTE Exam Vs IELTS: “Which is the best exam among PTE and IELTS” remains the top query among students willing to pursue their higher education abroad. Both of these tests are highly sought after among students, one for its broad acceptability and another one for its shorter duration and quicker results. Let us read this article to sort the quest PTE Vs IELTS - which one is the better exam for you.
Studying abroad requires international students to prove their proficiency in the English language. Qualifying for these English tests to study abroad proves to the universities that you are able to comprehend the lectures, have a good interaction with fellow batchmates and survive in a foreign city. However, among IELTS and PTE, “Is PTE better than IELTS?” or “Is IELTS better than PTE?” these two questions can affect the student’s preliminary studying abroad journey to a great extent.
To select which exam out of IELTS and PTE is better for you, analysing their elements such as exam patterns, durations, type of questions, results and acceptability can be great to ensure which English proficiency exam would be better for you. This article highlights the major points of differences between the IELTS and PTE Academic exams for studying abroad.
Predict your IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE in just 4 steps!
Also Read: IELTS vs TOEFL vs PTE vs Duolingo - Which Test Should You Take?
Difference Between PTE and IELTS
PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English Academic) and IELTS (International English Language Testing System) are two of the most widely accepted English exams for studying abroad. Both these exams are accepted widely for pursuing long-term and short-term education abroad. But with both options available, choosing the right test can feel overwhelming.
For this reason, we have listed the differences between the IELTS and PTE exams on several parameters below.
Test Format and Skills Assessed in PTE Vs IELTS
Below is a brief analysis of the test formats and the skills assessed in the IELTS and PTE exams.
- IELTS Exam: Traditionally, the IELTS exam assesses English comprehension skills across four parameters, i.e. IELTS speaking, reading, writing and listening. There are separate sessions for assessing the different sections of the IELTS exam, i.e. the Reading. Listening and Writing parts are tested in one sitting (without breaks) and the Speaking part is tested in a separate sitting on another day. However, candidates have the option to choose from the conventional paper-based or the computer-based (online) exam.
- PTE Academic Exam: The PTE exam emphasizes assessing the candidate’s ability to use English in real-world situations where they may be required to use more than 1 of the core communication skills, i.e. speaking, listening, reading and writing simultaneously. For this reason, the Listening and Reading skills are assessed in two different sections and the Writing and Speaking skills are assessed in one single section in the PTE exam. However, all these sections get assessed within one sitting of the exam in a computer-based (online) mode.
Below is the table that highlights the main points of differences in the test formats of PTE and IELTS exams.
| PTE Vs IELTS: Test Format |
||
|---|---|---|
| Parameters |
IELTS Exam |
PTE Exam |
| Test Duration |
|
|
| Number of Questions |
|
|
| Total Questions |
82+ questions |
52-75 questions |
PTE Vs IELTS Test Duration and Availability
The comparison between PTE and IELTS test durations and slot availability is given below.
- IELTS: The entire IELTS test takes approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes, with each individual section varying in length. The IELTS test dates are offered regularly, but registration deadlines exist due to which students must make sure that they register for the IELTS exam at least a month ago their actual test date.
- PTE Academic Test: The PTE exam typically lasts for 2 hours and 15 minutes. The test dates for this computer-based PTE exam are available almost every day and candidates can register for the exam as early as 24 hours before taking the exam, considering the availability of the desired test centres. However, the PTE Academic exam offers greater flexibility as it can be taken from the comfort of candidates' homes (PTE Academic Online exam).
The comparison of IELTS and PTE exams based on their duration and availability of exam slots are summarised in the table below.
| PTE Vs IELTS: Test Duration and Availability |
||
|---|---|---|
| Parameters |
IELTS Exam |
PTE Exam |
| Test Duration |
2 hours and 45 minutes |
2 hours |
| Slot Availability |
|
|
PTE Vs IELTS: Exam Fees
Another factor to consider in the PTE and IELTS comparison is the relative prices of both these exams. However, it is to be noted that both these exams, PTE and IELTS are priced the same, i.e. INR 17,000, inclusive of GST. So, students willing to take any of these English language exams do not have to bias their decision based on the respective fees of both these exams.
Retaking the Exam
The IELTS exam allows you to retake one of the exam sections, known as the IELTS One Skill Retake, to improve your score if you have not received your desired score in the first attempt. However, this can only be done if you have booked a full computer-based IELTS exam, have received the result of your exam and apply for the one-skill retake within 60 days of your original exam date.
On the other hand, the PTE exam does not allow you to retake the exam and if you fail the exam then, you will have to re-appear for the entire exam which means that you will have to book and pay for your PTE exam again.
PTE Vs IELTS: Scores and Results
There is a significant difference between the scoring of the PTE and IELTS exams. Let us read some of the major differences in PTE vs IELTS scores below.
- IELTS: The test takers are given separate scores on a band scale from 1 (lowest band score) to 9 (highest band score) for each section. An overall band score, which is an average score of all the sections is then assigned as the final IELTS score to the students. Most universities abroad require students to score a minimum of 6.0 band scores if taking the IELTS exam. The major point of difference in PTE vs IELTS scores is that, in an IELTS exam, the scores are awarded by human examiners.
- PTE Academic Exam: Just like the PTE exam, each skill/section in the PTE exam gets a separate score and an overall PTE score is also assigned based on the average of all these sectional scores. However, in the PTE Academic exam, the scores are assigned on a scale of 10-90. The scores in the PTE exam are awarded using artificial intelligence, avoiding the chances of human bias. This form of evaluation in the PTE exam leaves little to no room for making mistakes while scoring student’s performance.
PTE to IELTS Score Conversion
Below is the PTE vs IELTS Score Chart to give you an idea of the correlation between the IELTS and PTE scores.
| PTE Vs IELTS Score Chart |
|
|---|---|
| PTE Academic Scores |
IELTS Academic Scores |
| 23 |
←4.5→ |
| 29 |
←5.0→ |
| 36 |
←5.5→ |
| 46 |
←6.0→ |
| 56 |
←6.5→ |
| 66 |
←7.0→ |
| 76 |
←7.5→ |
| 84 |
←8.0→ |
| 89 |
←8.5→ |
| NA |
←9.0 |
This was all about the PTE vs IELTS score comparison. Now we will learn which countries accept IELTS and PTE and for what purpose.
PTE Vs IELTS Acceptance Comparison Across Different Countries
The list of countries accepting PTE Academic and IELTS for higher education and for PR is given in the table below.
| IELTS Vs PTE: Scores Accepting Countries for Higher Studies |
||
|---|---|---|
| Country |
PTE Academic |
IELTS |
| Australia |
✓ |
✓ |
| Canada |
✓ |
✓ |
| United States |
✓ (Some Institutions) |
✓ |
| United Kingdom |
✓ |
✓ |
| New Zealand |
✓ |
✓ |
| Singapore |
✓ |
✓ |
| Ireland |
✓ |
✓ |
| Germany |
✓ (Select Institutions) |
✓ |
| France |
✓ (Select Institutions) |
✓ |
| IELTS Vs PTE: Score Accepting Countries for PR |
||
|---|---|---|
| Country |
PTE Academic |
IELTS |
| Australia |
✓ |
✓ |
| Canada |
PTE Core |
✓ |
| United States |
X |
✓ |
| United Kingdom |
X |
✓ |
| New Zealand |
✓ |
✓ |
| Singapore |
X |
✓ |
| Ireland |
X |
✓ |
| Germany |
X |
✓ |
| France |
X |
✓ |
Also Read:
- PTE Score Conversion to IELTS and TOEFL iBT Scores 2024
- List of Colleges Accepting PTE Exam Scores in Canada
Preparation Tips for the IELTS and PTE Exams
Since you are aiming to ace either PTE or IELTS, here are some valuable preparation tips to help you on your journey:
- Immerse yourself in English: Surround yourself with the language as much as possible. Read English newspapers, listen to English podcasts and music, and watch English movies and TV shows (ideally with subtitles at first).
- Build your vocabulary: Regularly learn new words and practice using them in context. Flashcards, spaced repetition apps, and vocabulary builders online can be helpful tools.
- Practice active listening: Don't just listen passively. Focus on understanding the main ideas, supporting details, and the speaker's purpose. Practice summarising what you hear.
- Sharpen your reading comprehension: Read a variety of materials like news articles, academic journals, and fiction to develop your reading speed and comprehension skills. Practice identifying the main points, arguments, and supporting evidence in written texts.
- Refine your writing skills: Write regularly, focusing on grammar, clarity, and organisation. Practice writing different types of essays and summaries relevant to the exam format.
- Develop your speaking fluency: Speak English whenever possible. Find a conversation partner, join an English club, or practice speaking aloud on your own. Focus on pronunciation, clarity, fluency, and vocabulary usage.
- Time management is key: Both PTE and IELTS exams require effective time management. Practice using the allotted time wisely during practice tests to develop a strong exam strategy.
Also Read:
This was all about the comparison: PTE vs IELTS. If you have any doubts then, you can drop your queries in the comments below. Also, students looking for assistance with the university application process can get in touch with our Shiksha Counselling Services on the same.
PTE Vs IELTS FAQs
Q. Is PTE easier than IELTS?
A. Neither PTE nor IELTS is inherently easier; the difficulty or easiness of the exam for each student/test taker depends on their individual strengths and preferences. Here is a breakdown to help you decide:
Factors that might make PTE seem easier:
- Computer-based: If you are comfortable with using technology, the computer-based format of PTE might feel more familiar and convenient.
- Integrated skills: If you find it easier to showcase your English skills in a more natural and integrated way, PTE's test format focusing on all four skills simultaneously might be advantageous for you.
- Speaking anxiety: For those candidates prone to exam anxiety, speaking into a microphone in PTE test might feel less intimidating than speaking to a live examiner in the IELTS exam.
Factors that might make IELTS seem easier:
- Modular format: If you excel at categorising and focusing on specific skills, the traditional, section-based format of IELTS (listening, reading, writing, speaking) might be a good fit for you.
- Paper-based option: If you prefer the comfort of working with pen and paper, you can choose the pen and paper-based IELTS test.
- Familiarity with accents: If you have a strong non-native accent, an experienced human examiner in IELTS might be better at understanding your spoken English compared to the AI scoring system, just like in the PTE exam.
Ultimately, the best way to decide is to consider your:
- Learning style: Do you prefer a more integrated or a categorising approach?
- Test-taking preferences: Are you comfortable with computer-based tests or do you prefer pen and paper tests?
- Strengths and weaknesses: Are you a strong writer or speaker? Do you excel at managing time under pressure?
Q. PTE Vs IELTS - which one is better?
A. There is no single "better" option between the PTE and IELTS exams. It depends on your strengths!
- PTE: Choose PTE if you are comfortable with computers, prefer integrated skills testing, or have test anxiety about speaking to a person.
- IELTS: Choose IELTS if you prefer a traditional format, paper-based tests, or are worried about a non-native accent affecting your score with AI.
Q. What is PTE’s full form?
A. PTE stands for the Pearson Test of English. It is a globally recognised English language proficiency test designed for non-native speakers willing to get their higher education abroad or willing to get settled in Australia and Canada.
Q. Which is better for PR - IELTS or PTE?
A. IELTS might be a safer option due to its wider global recognition by immigration bodies. PTE on the other hand is only accepted for immigration in Australia. And for immigration in Canada, candidates willing to live and study there will have to take two separate PTE exams - PTE Academic (for higher education) and PTE Core (for immigration to Canada).
Q. Is PTE and IELTS same?
A. No, PTE and IELTS exams are not the same, although they both assess English language proficiency. Below is a quick breakdown of the key differences:
- Format: PTE is computer-based and integrates all four English comprehension skills (reading, listening, writing, speaking) into many tasks. IELTS offers paper-based or computer-delivered options with separate sections for each skill.
- Scoring: PTE uses AI for scoring, while IELTS uses human examiners.
- Focus: PTE emphasises real-world communication where skills are used together. IELTS focuses on individual skill assessment.
Q: Which is better IELTS or PTE?
Both IELTS and PTE are English proficiency tests required to study abroad in countries where the native language is English. However, the comparison between the two will depend entirely on the student’s preferences and purpose of taking the test. Below are a few points that can help you make clear choices.
Acceptance: IELTS is more widely accepted worldwide while PTE is less acceptable. However, the latter is getting increasingly accepted by more and more institutions and organisations in the world owing to its faster processing time. Both the exams are accepted for Australian student visas and migration applications.
Exam Pattern: Both the IELTS and PTE exams comprise the Reading, Listening, Writing and Speaking sections. However, the duration and the sequence of assessing these 4 core English language skills differ in both exams.
The IELTS exam assesses Listening (30 minutes), Reading (60 minutes) and Writing (60 minutes) skills in a sequence while Speaking (10-14 minutes) is assessed face-to-face by a real examiner. This is done on a different date from the actual IELTS exam, maybe till a week later. You may expect to get your IELTS exam results after 1 or 2 weeks of taking the exam depending on the type of exam you opted for (on-paper or computer-based).
On the contrary, the sequence of assessment of these core skills in the PTE exam is Speaking and Writing (50 - 67 minutes), Reading (30 minutes) and Listening 30-45 minutes. The total duration of the exam is 2 hours and test takers can expect to see their results within 48 hours of taking the exam.
Assessment: The Speaking section in the IELTS exam is assessed separately in real-time by the English experts in a face-to-face round which is often conducted a week after your IELTS exam date.
The Speaking section in the PTE exam is assessed along with the Writing section which is a more natural way to assess test taker’s skills. The speaking section along with all other sections are completed online, on the computer and are assessed by artificial intelligence.
Release of Results: PTE releases its test results within 48 hours of taking the test. However, the IELTS exam result can take around a week's or 2 weeks' time to get relesaed. IELTS scores are generated by English experts who compare your performance with the global standards while PTE uses an automated scoring system by using AI.
These factors may help you arrive at your decision of which exam to choose from for your academic endeavours.
Q: Which practice tests are best for candidates looking to appear for their PTE Academic test?
Candidates are advised to refer to PTE Academic Practice Papers available on the official PTE Academic website. Candidates are highly advised to only take information from trusted sources such as the official PTE Academic website and our preparatory guide.
Q: Why choose PTE over other English tests?
Compared to other English tests like IELTS and TOEFL, the PTE exam boasts several advantages, listed below:
- Faster results: Ideal for tight deadlines, the PTE test results are available within 2 business days from the date of taking your exam.
- Flexible testing: You can choose your preferred exam date and time slot almost year-round, even 24 hours before your desired exam date.
- AI-powered scoring: Your PTE exam is scored based on computer-based evaluation for consistent results. This removes any and all chances of bias and human errors.
- Wider question variety: Encounter diverse question types, testing your English skills in practical contexts.
- Interactive speaking & writing: Respond to real-time prompts, simulating natural everyday communication in an academic setting.
- Friendly and safe test centres: The safety and convenience of the PTE test takers is of utmost importance to the exam authorities which is why multiple test centres are available across a country or even city with each one of these not accommodating more than 10 candidates at a time.
- Growing popularity and acceptance: The PTE test is accepted at 3500+ universities worldwide with instiotutions including the University of Oxford, Harvard University and the Yale University.
Q: Has the PTE Academic exam become tougher over the years?
The PTE test has evolved over the years to stay relevant to the demands of the university and students. However, rest assured the main focus of the PTE Academic test has remained the same, i.e. to assess your academic-level English speaking, writing, reading and listening skills.
Q: What is the difference between PTE Academic, PTE UKVI, and PTE Home?
The PTE Academic Exam is for students looking to apply to universities and institutions abroad. The PTE Academic UKVI is for UK visa applications requiring a 4-skill language test. The PTE Home is for UK family and work visa applications and is different from the PTE at-home exam.
Q: Which Centre is best for IELTS exam?
Currently, IDP has multiple IELTS test centes spread across 75 cities in India providing a seamless IELTS testing experience to candidates. The best IELTS center would be the one that is the nearest to the candidate and have his/her preferred date for the IELTS test. IELTS test centers are present in:
| Ahmedabad | Amritsar | IELTS Exam Centres in Bangalore |
| Bhatinda | Bhopal | Bhubaneswar |
| Calicut | Chandigarh | IELTS Test Centers and Exam Dates in Chennai |
| Coimbatore | Delhi | IELTS Exam Centers in Hyderabad |
| Jaipur | Jalandhar | Kochi |
| Kolkata | Kottayam | Lucknow |
| Ludhiana | Madurai | IELTS Test Center in Mumbai |
| Navi Mumbai | Patiala | Pune |
| Raipur | Rajkot | Surat |
| Thiruvananthapuram | Thrissur | Trichy |
| Vijayawada | n/a | n/a |
Q: Is PTE easier than IELTS?
Both the PTE Academic and IELTS have been designed to understand the English language proficiency of the candidate. They have been designed to test the writing, speaking reading, and listening skills of the test taker. Hence, both the tests are at par with each other and the candidate should opt for the one he is comfortable in. However, there are some points of differences that must be noted when making a decision, these are:
- The PTE exam (2 hours) is shorter than the IELTS exam (3 hours).
- All the segments (sections) of a PTE exam are tested within a day, in a single sitting. However, the different sections in an IELTS exam are assessed on different days.
- The IELTS exam tests speaking, listening, reading and writing proficiencies in the English language separately, which may not be appropriate for testing the real-life comprehension abilities of the test-taker. On the other side, the PTE exam tests all these skills simultaneously based on the belief that successful communication is developed by combining all these skills together.
- Your performance in a PTE exam is judged by AI, which leaves little to no room for human errors and any sort of bias. the scores awarded in this manner are mostly accurate. While, in an IELTS exam, a human examiner is present to test your overall English proficiency.
- Results can be expected within two days of taking the PTE exam, while the IELTS exam results are released later.
Q: Which PTE exam centre is best for Indian students?
There is no exact choice of the PTE test centre that fits the "best" for all students. Students must look for and choose a centre which is the nearest to their current place of residence and is easily accessible. For this reason, start looking for a PTE test centre within your city.
However, if there is no PTE exam centre within your city then, select the one where you can travel to easily without getting late for your PTE exam. This is because if you miss out on appearing in the PTE exam at your chosen time slot then, you will have to book your PTE exam slot again along with re-paying the PTE exam fee.
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