Planning to study abroad but unsure whether to take the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) or PTE (Pearson Test of English)? Both are widely accepted English proficiency tests that help students gain admission to universities and secure visas. However, they differ in format, scoring, and evaluation methods. This blog will guide you through the key differences and help you choose the right test for your study abroad journey.
1. Understanding the Basics
What is IELTS?
The IELTS exam is one of the most popular English language tests, accepted by universities in the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, and many other countries. It comes in two formats:
- IELTS Academic (for students applying to universities)
- IELTS General Training (for work or immigration purposes)
Test Format: IELTS consists of four sections:
✅ Listening – 30 minutes (4 recordings)
✅ Reading – 60 minutes (3 passages)
✅ Writing – 60 minutes (2 tasks)
✅ Speaking – 11-14 minutes (face-to-face interview)
Scoring: IELTS is scored on a band scale from 0 to 9, with most universities requiring a 6.5 or higher.
What is PTE?
The Pearson Test of English (PTE) is a fully computer-based exam that uses AI for scoring. It is accepted in Australia, New Zealand, the UK, Canada, and some US universities.
Test Format: PTE also has four sections but integrates some of them into combined tasks:
✅ Speaking & Writing – 54-67 minutes (integrated tasks)
✅ Reading – 29-30 minutes
✅ Listening – 30-43 minutes
Scoring: The PTE is scored on a 90-point scale, with most universities requiring a score of 58-65 or higher.
2. Key Differences Between IELTS and PTE
| Feature | IELTS | PTE |
|---|---|---|
| Test Mode | Paper-based & Computer-based | Fully Computer-based |
| Speaking Test | Face-to-face with an examiner | AI-recorded responses |
| Scoring System | 0-9 Band Scale | 10-90 Scale |
| Exam Duration | 2 hours 45 minutes | 2-3 hours |
| Evaluation | Human evaluators | AI-based automated scoring |
| Results Time | 3-13 days | 1-5 days |
| Recognition | UK, USA, Canada, Australia & more | UK, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand & some European countries |
3. IELTS vs. PTE – Which One Should You Choose?
Choose IELTS If:
✔️ You are comfortable with pen-and-paper tests (for IELTS Paper-based).
✔️ You prefer a face-to-face speaking test with an examiner.
✔️ You want to apply to a university in a country where IELTS is widely accepted (e.g., UK, Canada, USA).
✔️ You are good at managing longer reading and writing sections.
Choose PTE If:
✔️ You are more comfortable with computer-based tests.
✔️ You prefer AI-based evaluation without human bias.
✔️ You want faster results (within 48 hours).
✔️ You are confident in answering multiple-choice and integrated questions.
4. Conclusion: Which Test is Best for Studying Abroad?
There is no universal “best” test – it depends on your strengths, study destination, and test preference. If you are good at structured writing and verbal communication, IELTS may be a better fit. If you prefer AI scoring and a faster test experience, PTE is the way to go.
Before deciding, check your university’s requirements and consider taking a mock test for both exams to see which suits you better.
Still confused? Consult an expert or reach out to study abroad consultants like Bellview Educator to get personalised advice!