IELTS vs PTE: Which Test Should You Choose for Your Higher Education Abroad?

Updated: Oct 27

Introduction

Did you know millions of students and professionals take an English test every year to achieve their dream of studying or working abroad? Among the most popular are IELTS (International English Language Testing System) and PTE (Pearson Test of English).

If you’re applying for universities, jobs, or permanent residency, chances are you’ll need one of these tests. But here comes the confusion — which one should you choose: IELTS or PTE?

In this guide, we’ll cover:

What IELTS VS PTE are
Their formats and scoring systems
Key differences between the two
Preparation tips, costs, and availability
Pros and cons to help you decide

By the end, you’ll know exactly which test fits your goals and skills best.

What is IELTS?

Overview of IELTS

The IELTS is one of the oldest and most widely accepted English proficiency tests. It’s recognized by over 11,000 organizations worldwide, including universities, employers, and governments.

Types of IELTS

IELTS Academic – for students applying to universities abroad.
IELTS General Training – for migration, work, and vocational purposes.

IELTS Test Format

Listening (30 mins): Conversations and lectures, followed by questions.
Reading (60 mins): Passages with multiple-choice and short-answer questions.
Writing (60 mins): Two tasks – one data/letter-based and one essay.
Speaking (11–14 mins): Face-to-face interview with an examiner.

💡 Example: If you struggle with writing essays, IELTS gives you a chance to showcase your strength in speaking or listening instead.

IELTS Scoring System

Band scores range from 0–9. Your overall score is the average of all four sections. A score of 6.0–6.5 is usually enough for universities, while 7.0+ is often required for jobs and permanent residency.

What is PTE?

Overview of PTE

The PTE is a newer, fully computer-based exam. It’s powered by AI, which means your test is scored automatically — no human bias involved.

Types of PTE

PTE Academic – for university admission.
PTE General – for general skills and work.
PTE UKVI – for UK visa purposes.

PTE Test Format

Speaking & Writing (54–67 mins): Record answers, repeat sentences, write essays.
Reading (29–30 mins): Fill in blanks, multiple-choice, re-ordering paragraphs.
Listening (30–43 mins): Summarize spoken text, highlight words, answer multiple-choice questions.

💡 If you’re comfortable typing and speaking into a computer instead of facing an examiner, PTE may feel easier.

PTE Scoring System

Scores range from 10–90. A score of 50–58 is usually enough for undergraduate admission, while 65–79 represents competitive scores for top universities and permanent residency applications.

IELTS vs PTE: Key Differences

Test Format

IELTS offers both paper-based and computer-based options, while PTE is 100% computer-based.

Scoring System

IELTS is scored by human examiners, especially for speaking and writing. In contrast, PTE uses AI algorithms for faster, unbiased results.

Global Recognition

IELTS is widely accepted in the UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the USA, and more. PTE is gaining acceptance, especially in Australia, New Zealand, the USA, and UK universities.

Difficulty Level

IELTS speaking is face-to-face, which some find intimidating. PTE speaking is computer-based, making it a better option for shy students.

💡 Tip: If you freeze up in front of examiners, PTE might be your better option.

How to Choose Between IELTS and PTE

Based on Country Preference

IELTS – often required for Canada and the UK.
PTE – more popular in Australia and New Zealand.

Based on Study or Work Goals

Universities in Canada and the UK lean towards IELTS. Many institutions in Australia, New Zealand, and the USA accept both.

Based on Personal Strengths

Choose IELTS if you’re confident in face-to-face speaking. Opt for PTE if you’re faster at typing and more comfortable with technology.

Case Study: Riya’s Dilemma – IELTS or PTE?

Riya, a 23-year-old student from Mumbai, had two offers — one from a Canadian university and another from an Australian university. She was confused about which English test to take.

For Canada, the university required IELTS Academic (minimum 6.5 band). For Australia, the university accepted both IELTS and PTE, with a PTE requirement of 58.

Riya wasn’t comfortable with face-to-face speaking. She often froze during interviews but was confident typing and recording answers on a computer. After guidance from her counselor, she chose PTE and applied to the Australian university.

Her result arrived within 48 hours, and she scored 65 overall, securing admission.

💡 Takeaway: Match your test choice to your destination requirements and personal comfort level.

Preparation Tips for IELTS and PTE

General Preparation Strategies

Read English newspapers or blogs daily.
Listen to podcasts or watch shows with subtitles.
Practice mock tests regularly.

IELTS-Specific Tips

Focus on time management for reading and writing.
Practice speaking with a partner or teacher to simulate the test.

PTE-Specific Tips

Get used to typing quickly and accurately.
Practice speaking clearly into a microphone.
Learn the integrated task format (listening + writing).

Cost, Availability, and Results

IELTS

Fee: Around ₹15,500–₹16,500 (USD 245–250).
Results: 13 days (computer-based: 3–5 days).
Availability: Widely available in test centers.

PTE

Fee: Around ₹14,700–₹15,900 (USD 230–240).
Results: Usually within 48 hours.
Availability: Available in select centers and online.

Pros and Cons of IELTS vs PTE

IELTS Pros

Globally recognized.
Option for paper or computer test.
More test centers available.

IELTS Cons

Longer result time.
Speaking test can feel stressful.

PTE Pros

Quick results (2 days).
AI-based scoring (less human bias).
Entirely computer-based.

PTE Cons

Fewer test centers in some countries.
Limited recognition compared to IELTS in regions like Canada.

Conclusion

Both IELTS and PTE are powerful gateways to studying, working, or settling abroad. IELTS is widely recognized and offers paper-based flexibility, while PTE delivers faster results and AI-powered scoring.

Your choice should depend on:

Destination – IELTS for Canada/UK, PTE for Australia/NZ.
Goals – University, job, or PR requirements.
Strengths – Comfort with speaking face-to-face vs computer-based tasks.

Neither test is “easier” — success depends on preparation and the right guidance.

✨ Ready to take the next step? Whether you’re searching for IELTS classes in Rajkot, the best PTE coaching classes in Rajkot, or reliable education consultants and student visa consultants in Rajkot, Rio Overseas Education & Consultancy is here to guide you every step of the way.

👉 Contact Rio Overseas today and move closer to your dream future abroad.

FAQs on IELTS and PTE

Which is better, IELTS or PTE?
It depends on your goals. IELTS has wider global acceptance, while PTE is faster and fully computer-based.
Which test is easier to score high in?
Many students find PTE easier due to AI scoring, but it depends on your strengths.
Can I use PTE for Canada PR?
Currently, Canada primarily accepts IELTS for PR, though some universities accept PTE for study.
How long is IELTS or PTE valid?
Both are valid for two years.
What is the passing score?
There’s no pass/fail. Universities and visa authorities set minimum requirements (often IELTS 6.0+ or PTE 50+).
How many times can I retake the test?
You can retake IELTS or PTE as many times as you want, but each attempt costs full fees.