Studying abroad is an enthralling experience that every student would want to witness, at least once in their lifetime. However, it becomes important to demonstrate proficiency in English for non-native speakers. For this, there are two most popular tests that are used as assessing tools. These are the Pearson Test of English (PTE) and the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Every foreign university accepts both of these popular tests, but it is your choice whether you wish to take IELTS or PTE. Often, international students wonder: is PTE better or IELTS? In this article, we will delve deeper into the differences between the two tests, their formats, prices, availability, and scoring systems to help you decide which one might be better suited for you.
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The International English Language Testing System (IELTS), is created by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. It is one of the most popular tests to demonstrate English language proficiency worldwide. There are two formats of this test, which are:
Academic: This format is best for those who want to apply for universities or higher education institutions.
General Training: This format is the best for those who want to apply for work and immigration purposes.
IELTS assesses four language skills of the candidate: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.
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Developed by Pearson, the PTE Academic test is also a popular language proficiency test that is widely accepted by universities, employers, and immigration departments. This test also evaluates the same four skills (listening, reading, writing, and speaking) of the candidate. However, there is a slight difference in the approach and the formats.
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The below table shows the differences between the formats of IELTS and PTE.
Aspect | IELTS | PTE |
|---|---|---|
Test Duration | 2 hours 45 minutes | 3 hours |
Speaking | Face-to-face with an examiner | Computer-based (you speak into a microphone) |
Listening | 4 sections with multiple question types | 3 sections, including recorded texts |
Reading | 3 sections (text-based) | 3 sections (text-based, including both academic and real-world materials) |
Writing | 2 tasks (Essay and Data Interpretation) | 2 tasks (Essay and Summarizing Written Text) |
Test Method | Paper-based or Computer-based | Fully computer-based |
Scoring | 1-9 band score system | 10-90 points (a more granular scale) |
Is PTE easier than IELTS? Here are the key differences between their formats that make candidates wonder that IELTS is difficult than PTE:
Speaking: IELTS is seen as more personal, while PTE is seen as more automated. In IELTS, there is a face-to-face speaking session where a human examiner evaluates your speaking skills, causing test anxiety in many candidates. On the other hand, in PTE, candidates have to speak in a microphone, leading to an absence of human interaction.
Test Mode: Candidates can take IELTS either on paper or a computer, while PTE is completely computer-based.
Test duration: IELTS is slightly shorter than PTE. While the duration of PTE is 3 hours, the test duration for IELTS is 2 hours 50 minutes.
Here is the IELTS VS PTE score system:
Aspect | IELTS | PTE |
Score Range | 0-9 (whole and half bands) | 10-90 (granular scale) |
Overall Band/Score | Average of 4 skills | Average of 4 skills |
Skill Scores | Each skill has its own score | Each skill has its own score |
Skill Weightage | Equal weight for all skills | Equal weight for all skills |
Time to Get Results | 13 calendar days | 5 business days |
Granularity: PTE’s scoring system (ranging from 10 to 90) is more granular, allowing for a precise measure of a candidate’s abilities. IELTS scores in whole and half bands, with less specificity.
Turnaround Time: One of the major benefits of PTE is its fast result reporting time, typically within 5 business days. IELTS results take longer, generally about 13 calendar days, making PTE a preferable option for individuals in urgent need of results.
Here are the PTE VS IELTS price:
Aspect | IELTS | PTE |
|---|---|---|
Cost in USD | $215 - $340 | $200 - $275 |
Cost in INR | INR 17,000 | INR 17,000 |
Cost Variability: The cost of both IELTS and PTE depends on the country and location. However, in some regions, PTE is cheaper than IELTS. The prices for both the tests keep on changing, so it is always advisable to check local test centres to know the exact cost of the test.
More than thousands of foreign universities accept both PTE and IELTS globally. However, the International English Language Testing System has a larger footprint, in terms of acceptance, especially in countries like the UK, Australia, and New Zealand. In countries like the USA and Canada, PTE is gradually gaining much attention.
IELTS is accepted by over 11,000 organizations worldwide.
PTE is accepted by over 6,000 organizations globally.
Both of these tests are slightly different from each other, but it depends on the candidate which test they want to take.
Test Preference and Comfort: If you’re comfortable with face-to-face interactions and don’t mind speaking directly to an examiner, IELTS might be better. If you prefer a completely computerized experience without human interaction, PTE would be ideal.
Results Time: If you need your results quickly, PTE’s 5 business day reporting is an attractive feature.
Cost: If you're looking for a potentially cheaper option, PTE might offer savings, depending on where you take the test.
Location: If you plan to study or work in a specific country, consider the test that is more widely accepted there. IELTS has a broader reach globally, but PTE is growing fast in countries like the USA.
There is no exact answer to whether PTE is better than IELTS or vice versa, as both of these have something unique about each other. For candidates who prefer face-to-face human interaction and want a more globally recognized test in countries like the UK, New Zealand, and Australia, they can opt for IELTS. And, candidates who want quick results, enjoy computer-based format, or want to study in USA or Canada can go for PTE.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Though IELTS is better than IELTS for the USA, PTE is gradually gaining traction. More universities and official authorities are accepting it.
For the UK, IELTS is considered to be better than PTE. This is because it is more widely recognized and accepted by universities and official authorities.
For Canada, IELTS is considered to be better than PTE. This is because it is more widely recognized and accepted by universities and Canadian authorities.
PTE is slightly more expensive than IELTS in certain regions. The PTE exam costs around USD$300 (~Php12,790), while the IELTS tests range from Php10,800 to Php12,790.
There is no exact answer to whether the PTE exam is easier than IELTS. It all depends on the personal preferences of the candidates.
On Question asked by student community
Hello,
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Private universities in Germany are more flexible than public ones. You can apply for courses in management, business, or IT fields. However, you must justify
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Here are the links where you can get study material for IELTS :
2. IELTS Preparation books and study materials 2025
Hope it helps !
The national test dates are September 6, 13, 18, and 27 for ielts academic exam.
Test centers and their addresses are decided by IDP Education and are available in major cities across the country.
You can get address here IELTS TEST CENTRES
You are running short of time usually the
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It depends on the university you are applying to. Most German universities do not require GATE for admission to a Master's in Biotechnology. However, some universities may ask for the GRE , especially if you are applying to a highly competitive program.
You should check the specific admission requirements
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