Which is Better IELTS or PTE? Experts Detailed Comparison

Latest Facts and News

• As of 2024, both IELTS and PTE are widely accepted for study, work, and migration purposes, making them essential for non-native English speakers.

• PTE Academic has reduced its test duration from 3 hours to 2 hours, enhancing the efficiency of the testing experience.

• IELTS has introduced IELTS One Skill Retake, allowing candidates to retake a single section of the test instead of the entire exam for greater flexibility.

• PTE Academic Online, a remote proctored version, is now available in many countries, providing greater accessibility for test-takers.

If you are wondering which is better IELTS or PTE? Then, this blog is for you. Selecting proper English proficiency tests can lead to good professional and academic opportunities. There is a selection of two most popular test types: IELTS (International English Language Testing System) and PTE (Pearson Test of English). IELTS and PTE are both recognised by immigration authorities, universities and employers around the world, but which is better IELTS or PTE? In this blog, we are going to discuss the key differences between IELTS and PTE, the scoring system, format, and other relevant features and finally, make a decision on which is better IELTS or PTE and which serves your purpose.

Overview of IELTS and PTE

When it comes to the difference between IELTS and PTE exams, it's essential to understand the key differences in their format, scoring, and overall approach to language testing, as each test offers unique features that cater to different learning styles and needs.

What is IELTS?

IELTS is an internationally recognized English language proficiency test administered by the British Council, IDP: Cambridge Assessment English, and IELTS Australia. It assesses four language skills: Reading, Listening, Writing and Speaking. IELTS is offered in two formats: It offers Academic and General Training, i.e. to people who do different things such as Immigration and Studying Abroad. If you want to determine which is better IELTS or PTE, you can see the format, and it can help you to make your decision.

What is PTE?

PTE is a computer-based English language proficiency test developed by Pearson. It evaluates the same four skills as IELTS: Writing, Reading, Listening, and Speaking. PTE has different versions, including PTE Academic, which is used mostly by colleges and universities, and PTE General, which is mostly used for general English proficiency. This breakdown may help if you are asking yourself if PTE is better than IELTS.

Also Read: Is PTE Easier Than IELTS? A Detailed Expert Guide for 2024

Key Differences Between IELTS and PTE

To make an informed decision on choosing between IELTS and PTE, the crucial part would be exploring the key differences between these two popular English proficiency tests in terms of their structure, scoring, and testing experience. Here are some of the key differences below:

1. Test Format and Structure for IELTS and PTE

The biggest difference between the two tests comes with the format. Whereas the paper-based version is available for IELTS, PTE is entirely computer-based. PTE is a more modern test that uses technology to get faster results and more efficiency. Thus, the format of the test is another contributing factor in deciding which is better IELTS or PTE. Here’s a breakdown:

• IELTS: Offers both a computer-based and paper-based exam with a face-to-face Speaking section.

• PTE: Automated Speaking, spoken in a computer-based format.

Some will be happier with personal interaction in the IELTS Speaking test, while others will be happy with the automated convenience of PTE.

2. Scoring System for IELTS and PTE

The scoring systems for IELTS and PTE are so different that you can't compare the two at all. While PTE has scores from 10 to 90, it uses a band system from 0 to 9. Here’s a closer look at the implications of each system:

• IELTS: Bands (6.5 and 7.0) are given, with band 9 indicated for expert proficiency.

• PTE: Scores range from 10 to 90, with each section contributing to an overall score.

For example, if the IELTS score is 7.0, then it may be similar to an 80 score in PTE, according to the exact score conversion table. In other words, the ease of a scoring system and, hence, the choice between which is better IELTS or PTE, should be determined based on which scoring system suits you.

3. Test Duration for IELTS and PTE

Currently, PTE Academic lasts 2 hours, compared to 2 hours and 45 minutes for IELTS. It could even be appealing to PTEs who want to save time and prefer to have a shorter, intensive testing experience. This means if you’re more careful about test duration, then you might want to pick which is better IELTS or PTE, depending on your situation.

4. Speaking Section Differences Between IELTS and PTE

The delivery of the Speaking sections in IELTS and PTE is different. Many candidates, however, prefer face-to-face interaction with an examiner in IELTS. Unlike PTE, where a computer records your responses, PTE uses an automated system. This is impersonal. However, it removes any chances of bias from the human examiner. Which is better, IELTS or PTE, will depend on two things: why are you taking the test? And your level of comfort.

5. Writing Section Differences Between IELTS and PTE

Both tests test your writing ability but the format is different. IELTS includes two tasks: They give an example of a 150-word description or explanation task and a 250-word essay. For PTE, there are two tasks, but the dynamic writing section integrates skills, such as summarizing spoken text. This may help you decide which is better IELTS or PTE, for you considering these variations.

Also Read: IELTS Score for Australia to Study, Work & Get PR in 2024

PTE vs IELTS Which is Easy?

When choosing between IELTS and PTE, many test-takers wonder which exam is easier. Still, the answer depends largely on individual strengths, learning preferences, and the specific format of each test. Here are a few factors which can help you choose between PTE and IELTS which is easy

Factors Affecting Difficulty in PTE and IELTS

If you are wondering about PTE vs IELTS which is easy, then here are some of the common factors that affect difficulty:

• Familiarity with Computers: If you’re a techie, PTE’s computer-based level might be easier.

• Speaking Comfort Level: If you’re more comfortable speaking to a person, IELTS can be less frightening.

• Accents:  It’s common for IELTS exams to cater to many kinds of accents, whereas PTE’s automated system can occasionally be trickier for speakers of languages different from English.

If you are deciding between PTE vs IELTS which is easy, you need to know some of the factors you are comfortable with.

Subjective Experiences of Test-Takers of IELTS and PTE

IELTS and PTE experience are very different for most test takers. For some candidates, PTE is easier because they don’t have to interact with real people. Other people also do not like the writing and speaking component of the IEITS, so they prefer a structured or ‘familiar’ way, such as IELTS. Taking advice from people who have taken both tests and know which is better, IELTS or PTE, will help you decide to choose IELTS or PTE.

IELTS Vs PTE Scores: Comparision

When comparing IELTS vs PTE score, it's important to understand how the scoring systems differ and how they correlate to ensure you're interpreting your results accurately across both exams.

1. Score Conversion Chart for IELTS and PTE

One must realize that there are differences between IELTS vs PTE score. Below is a simplified version of the score conversion chart, which can help you gauge where your performance might lie:

This chart can help you better understand which is better IELTS or PTE based on the scoring requirements of your target institution or immigration program.

2. Understanding Score Requirements for IELTS and PTE

Each country and each institution has particular score requirements. The minimum mark is usually a 6.5 in IELTS or a 58 in PTE for academic use, but it depends on the course. This will help you make a decision concerning which is better IELTS or PTE, for the purpose at hand.

IELTS and PTE Acceptance and Recognition

Understanding the acceptance and recognition of IELTS and PTE scores is crucial for prospective students and professionals, as it influences their opportunities for education, employment, and migration.

1. Academic Institutions

In the UK, Australia, and New Zealand, IELTS is mostly recognised, and PTE is growing popular because of its quicker results there. Both tests are accepted by most universities in the U.S. Also, I suggest we keep in mind which is better IELTS or PTE, depending on geographical and institutional requirements.

2. Immigration Purposes

Many prefer IELTS for immigration to countries like Canada, the UK and Australia. PTE is also being recognised for immigration purposes in other countries, although it is also accepted for Australian immigration purposes. And if you are applying for immigration, It’s always better to know which is better IELTS or PTE for your desired country.

3. Professional Organizations

When it comes to professional bodies, IELTS and PTE are accepted for registration and certification purposes in fields such as healthcare and education. It all depends on your profession, so some may find that IELTS or PTE is best for qualifying the industry.

Choosing Between IELTS and PTE

When deciding which is better IELTS or PTE, consider the following factors:

• Test format preference: Paper vs. computer-based.

• Speed of results: PTE generally delivers results faster.

• Speaking section preference: Face-to-face (IELTS) or automated (PTE).

If you are strong in communication, tech-savvy, and can manage stress during the test, then you should choose which is better IELTS or PTE, according to your strengths.

Preparation Strategies for IELTS and PTE

To succeed in either the IELTS or PTE, developing targeted preparation strategies is crucial, as each test requires a unique approach to mastering the specific skills and formats involved.

1. Study Resources for IELTS and PTE

Success comes with preparation. Some resources for your study include the official IELTS website and Pearson’s PTE preparation portal, which provide both free and paid materials to help you with your study. From this context, which is better IELTS or PTE, can depend on how well you can prepare using the available resources.

2. Practice Tests for IELTS and PTE

For both IELTS and PTE, it’s important to take practice tests. In other words, they help you with testing the format and timing of the test, and you can concentrate on the part of the test that you have to improve. It’s from these tests that you will know the difference between IELTS and PTE tests, which are the best for you.

3. Time Management Tips for IELTS and PTE

During these tests, time management is very important. Time management comes from practice under timed conditions, which, in the Writing and Speaking sections, can help you greatly. Which is better IELTS or PTE, will be determined by how well you manage your time.

Cost Comparison: IELTS vs PTE

When considering the cost of IELTS versus PTE, it's helpful to compare the pricing structure of both tests to determine which one fits your budget and testing needs.

1. Exam Fees of IELTS and PTE

The cost of taking IELTS or PTE varies depending on the country. On average:

• IELTS: $215 – $240 (18,077.20 - 20,179.20 INR)

• PTE: $200 – $220 (16,816.00 - 18,497.60 INR)

Though the difference in cost is not significant, it’s worth considering when choosing which is better IELTS or PTE, based on your budget.

2. Retake Policy of IELTS and PTE

If you are dissatisfied with your IELTS or PTE scores, they will let you retake them. The PTE is quicker to deliver results than the IELTS, but if you need to, it is also quicker to retake the test too. This is another factor that should be considered when choosing which is better IELTS or PTE, depending on your plans.

Conclusion: Which English Proficiency Test is Better for You?

In the end, which is better IELTS or PTE, is entirely up to you, based on the circumstances that suit you, i.e. comfort with the technology involved, your preferences as regards the test, or the time you possess to make it. Both tests are widely accepted and serve as a route to academic as well as professional opportunities across the globe. By understanding the key differences, scoring systems, and preparation strategies, you’ll be in a better position to choose the test that aligns with your strengths and goals.