PTE vs IELTS: What’s the difference & Which test is Easier?

PTE vs IELTS: In pursuit of higher education abroad, passing English language Proficiency tests like IELTS, PTE is crucial for all candidates. The main difference between IELTS and PTE is that IELTS (International Engish Language Testing System) provides an option between a paper-based and a computer-delivered exam while the PTE (Pearson Test of English) test offers only a computer-based test marked by a machine. Also, for the speaking part, in IELTS, test is conducted as face-to-face talk with the examiner, but with PTE, candidates have to speak with the computer using a microphone.

PTE vs IELTS, figuring out which test is easier, and which one to take for studying abroad or migration can feel like trying to solve a puzzle. We are here to simplify your PTE vs IELTS confusion. In this blog, we’ll break down all the major factors such as exam format, scoring system, validity, level of difficulty, and much more in an easy-to-understand way to see the difference clearly.

 Continue reading this blog for answers to multiple questions like PTE or IELTS which one to choose? Is PTE easier than IELTS? What is the difference between PTE and IELTS? thus helping you to decide on a suitable test.

This blog includes:

• PTE vs IELTS - Key Differences
• Latest Updates about PTE and IELTS
• Factor that decide which one is right for you- PTE or IELTS
• PTE vs IELTS: Exam Pattern and Structure
• PTE vs IELTS: Scoring Pattern and Assessment Criteria
• PTE vs IELTS: Test Fee and Global Acceptance
• PTE vs IELTS: Test Results and Validity
• Difficulty Level of PTE and IELTS Tests
• IELTS and PTE Academic Criteria Difference
• Distinguishing the Administrative Factors between IELTS and PTE
• IELTS vs PTE Academic - Which test is easier?
• PTE or IELTS: Which one to take?
• FAQ

As reported by Indian Express, Pearson announced in a press release that according to official figures, there has been a 76% increase in PTE Academic volumes on a global scale in 2023 after change in Canadian International student policy.

PTE vs IELTS - Key Differences

Both IELTS and PTE tests are designed to measure the overall English language competency of a test taker. The table below shows the significant differences between PTE and IELTS.

Factors	PTE	IELTS
Conducted by	Pearson PLC Group	IDP Education Ltd.
Test Types	PTE Academic	IELTS Academic, IELTS General Training, and IELTS Indicator
Mode of Test	Computer based	Paper and Computer based
Test Duration	2 hours	2 hours and 45 minutes
Test Fee	INR 18,000 (USD $209)	INR 18,000 (USD $209)
Scoring Pattern	10 - 90 points	0 - 9 band score
Evaluation Assessment	Uses Artifical Intelligence to give scores. For speaking test one must talk on microphone	Manual Evaluation. For speaking test - face to face with examiner
Mean of accepted scores	50	6.3
Result	48 hours after the test	13 days after the test
Global Acceptance	Accepted by over 11,500 organizations in 140+ countries, including UK, Australia, New Zealand, USA, and Canada.	Accepted by over 3,000 institutions, including Harvard Business school, INSEAD.

Latest Updates about PTE and IELTS

In February 2024, the Canadian Government (IRCC) recognized the newly launched PTE Core Exam for all economic visas including PR and citizenship in Canada.

IELTS conducting bodies, in 2023 launched IELTS One Skill Retake across the world. Candidates can now retake one part of the test without redoing all the other three skills. Whereas for PTE, test takers must book, pay, and sit for the entire PTE test, risking the possibility of missing out scores again.

Factor that decide which one is right for you- PTE or IELTS

PTE vs IELTS: Exam Pattern and Structure

When preparing for language tests, understanding exam patterns, structure and duration of tests is crucial to achieve success on the first attempt. This section focuses on the same.

In the IELTS test, your English language skills will be measured into four different parts arranged in the following order- listening, reading, writing, and speaking. IELTS consists of two types - IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training. In PTE, your English language proficiency will be assessed in three test sections using the following sequence- Speaking and Writing (combined section), Reading, and Listening. There are two types of PTE available - PTE Academic and PTE General. 

The PTE test takes usually 2 hours and 15 minutes and is usually taken online. The IELTS test takes approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes and is usually taken in a test center. See the table below that gives summary information about PTE vs IELTS exam format

Exam Sections	PTE Test	IELTS
Listening	In this section, the test duration varies between 45 and 57 minutes and answers a series of questions based on audio and video clips.	Candidates will be given four recordings and need to answer 40 questions in 30 minutes.
Reading	Students need to complete objective exercises such as MCQs, filling up blanks, and sequencing paragraphs of text in 32 to 40 minutes.	In this section, candidates will be given three long texts and need to answer 40 questions in 30 minutes.
Speaking	These two sections are combined in PTE and carried out in 77 to 93 minutes. Test takers need to tackle diverse tasks such as reading aloud, describing images, summarising essays, and essay writing.	Speaking consists of three parts: Introduction and Interview, Individual long-turn test, and Discussion. It extends to 15 minutes.
Writing		Two writing tasks have to be completed in 60 minutes. In task 1, students need to describe a given graph, table diagram, or chart.

As mentioned, IELTS and PTE are almost similar in syllabus and test format. Both evaluate the test-takers reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. While IELTS uses UK and US variants of English as its test medium, PTE includes UK, US, and Australian variants of English.

To know more about each exam pattern in detail Refer:

• IELTS Exam Pattern and Structure
• PTE Exam Pattern and Structure

PTE vs IELTS: Scoring Pattern and Assessment Criteria

Along with the grip on exam structure, understanding scorring pattern of both tests will help for effective preparation and to make informed decision.

The scoring of the IELTS test is based on the 0 - 9 band score scale. The maximum score that can be obtained by students is 9. The minimum score set by most institutions, universities, government and corporate organizations is 6.5 - 7.5. And, In the PTE test, the scoring pattern uses the Global Scale of English (GSE) consists of between 10 to 90 points. Candidates can get a maximum of 90 points. The minimum range of points to be eligible for getting admission to most universities is 65 to 73. The table below compares IELTS band scores and PTE GSE scores,

IELTS	5	5.5	6	6.5	7	7.5	8	8.5
PTE-A	40.8	45.4	51.6	58.5	66.3	74.6	82.3	88.1

Coming to Assessment Criteria, The IELTS test is assessed based on how the candidate performed the test. It ranges from band score 0 - 9. Each band score equated to a certain skill level, for example, those who got band 9 are expert users, and those who obtained band 7 are good users. PTE tests the candidates’ communication skills and six enabling skills - Pronunciation, Grammar, Vocabulary, Oral Fluency, Written discourse and spelling.

For more information refer below links:

• IELTS band Score Chart
• PTE Score Chart

Payal Agarwal graduated from Gujarat University answered on Quora “According to my personal opinion, scoring in PTE is much more reliable and easier than IELTS. Almost people says PTE is easier than IELTS but it too needs lot of practice although some tasks in PTE are very easy but not all. IELTS and PTE have similar test sections of Reading, Listening,Speaking and Writing”.

Now that you're aware of PTE vs IELTS score comparison. It's clear that PTE is a machine evaluated exam and the margin for error in the evaluation is almost negligable. Let's explore more differences between PTE and IELTS such as test fee, global acceptance, difficulty level, etc.

PTE vs IELTS: Test Fee and Global Acceptance

The exam fee for both IELTS and PTE is almost the same. The cost of IELTS and PTE exams in India is INR 18,000 including GST. If you want to cancel or reschedule the test, there is a separate fee to be paid.

IELTS has a greater acceptance rate than PTE due to its early establishment in 1989. IELTS scores are accepted by over 11,500 organizations in 140+ countries. PTE is attaining popularity ever since it was introduced in 2009. PTE Academic Scores are accepted by over 3,000 institutions, including Harvard Business school, INSEAD, Oxford University, and Yale. PTE is gaining more acceptance in Australia, Canada, New Zealand and Ireland.

To know more about the Exam fees Refer our pages:

• IELTS Exam fees
• PTE Exam fees

Well, Now your next question might be When the test results will be out and how long they are valid?  Well, let's see the answer below

PTE vs IELTS: Test Results and Validity

The IELTS test results will be out after 13 days and it will be online for 28 days from the date of declaration. Your IELTS score will be valid for 2 years, irrespective of Academic or General training. You can appear for the test any number of times but have a gap of at least a few months to prepare well and get good results. 

As PTE is a computerized process, the test results will be announced within 5 working days. Mostly, you will get the PTE results in 2 days. The PTE results are valid for 2 years. The PTE score will not be available on the PTE official website after the 2-year duration. Both IELTS and PTE are valid, if it is for Australian migration.

Also Read:

• How to send IELTS Scores to Colleges and Universities
• How to send PTE scores to Colleges and Universities

Now, you may ask, " How many attemps IELTS and PTE have to retake the test?" Well, there is no limit for number of attempts to take on both IELTS and PTE exams. Candidates can give PTE exam within a gap of 5 days by paying exam fee for every attempt.

Now let's check into distinctive features like difficulty level, administrative  factors, etc. that set IELTS vs PTE apart.

Difficulty Level of PTE and IELTS Tests

Both IELTS and PTE have their own difficulties and challenges which need to be tackled in various ways. You can take IELTS in either pen and paper format or computer. But, when it comes to PTE, you have to take a test by sitting in front of a computer. You need to do longer tasks in IELTS, while 20 shorter tasks in PTE test. However, deep knowledge of the format and well-versed in English fundamentals are required to perform well in both of the tests.

IELTS and PTE Academic Criteria Difference

Candidates aiming to study abroad always want to find out which English language Proficiency test could be the best fit for them. Our advice is to take at least one or two mock tests of each exam, note their PTE scores compared to IELTS scores, and then choose the test that suits them best and yields good results.

The main factor is the acceptance of the test scores by the targeted university or country. Because some universities worldwide set specific acceptance requirements for language proficiency test scores. Also, Language proficiency test scores are crucial during the student visa process. The immigration departments specifically set some acceptance test scores as a part of the visa process.

Based on the Academic criteria, a few key factors that show the difference between PTE and IELTS must be kept in mind when choosing between the two:

• Convenience with the Exam Type: IELTS would be comfortable if you’re used to the written examination format. However, if you’re confident in navigating the digital User Interface (UI), then PTE could be a better choice for you.
• Ability to solve: If you can solve a lot of questions quickly within a limited time limit in the exam, then you can choose the PTE examination compared to IELTS.
• Comfort with writing: If you’re skilled at writing analytically and very quickly, then IELTS would be a solid choice for you, mainly due to the heavy focus the exam has on this skill.
• Your speaking accent and fluency: The PTE speaking test is computer-based and evaluates a candidate's performance based on pronunciation. Hence, if you speak with a thick accent, then IELTS would be the preferred choice as it is conducted face-to-face with the examiner.

Hence to assess all the above criteria we suggest you take the mock test for both exams to choose the ideal one for you. Now, let’s check the administrative factors that differentiate IELTS and PTE

Distinguishing the Administrative Factors between IELTS and PTE 

Along with the above academic factors, there are certain administrative or operational factors and advantages that differentiate PTE from IELTS. Especially, if you want to take a test within a few days, say like if you want to send report scores to the university within a week, then PTE could provide an edge over IELTS with its super short booking time and result delivery within two days, particularly when you have deadlines to meet. Moreover, candidates can retake the PTE exam within five days of the previous attempt, it is useful if you are particularly feeling anxious about your first attempt.

However, the test centres availability is higher for the IELTS exam which can be a crucial factor especially if you are taking the exam offline in a very short time frame and have to travel nearby city for the test. 

Also, check other language test comparisons

• Duolingo vs PTE
• Duolingo vs IELTS

IELTS vs PTE Academic - Which test is easier?

Neither of the tests is easier than the other one, except for the differences in the examination mode and pattern. Both PTE and IELTS test the same fundamental English language skills of a candidate, viz., speaking, writing, listening, and reading. In comparison, PTE provides a computer-based test while IELTS offers both paper and computer-based. 

The choice depends on the test taker’s personality, English language proficiency, and other skills. If the candidate is comfortable speaking in front of an examiner, then they can do well in the IELTS speaking test. If it is not the case, then PTE is a preferable choice since the candidate needs to speak through a microphone, and the computer captures the audio. However, your potential PTE score in speaking might get affected if you have a sore throat or common cold, which needs to be taken into consideration. 

PTE or IELTS: Which one to take?

When deciding which test to take, PTE or IELTS, Test takers should consider their study preferences, strengths, and weaknesses, and target institutions or employers. PTE may be a better option for candidates comfortable with the computer-based format and expecting faster results. On the other hand, for candidates who are comfortable with traditional paper-based format, IELTS may be the right choice. Test takers should also check the preferences set by their target institutions or employers. Some may favor one test over the other, so researching requirements beforehand is crucial.

Now, let’s explore the questions students often have regarding the PTE vs IELTS comparison from their perspective.

FAQ

1. What is the difference between PTE and IELTS?

PTE and IELTS are two different tests to check the English language proficiency of candidates for immigration or education abroad. IELTS scores are graded between 0 and 9, whereas the PTE overall score ranges between 10 and 90 based on performance in each skill, viz., listening, reading, writing, and speaking.

2. Is PTE easier than IELTS?

PTE vs IELTS, both test the fundamental English language skills - Listening, Writing, Speaking, and Reading. And, neither of the tests is easier than the other since each test has a different examination mode and pattern. The time duration for both the exams is 3 hours.

3. Which is better IELTS and PTE for PR?

While both PTE and IELTS are English proficiency tests, IELTS enjoys higher recognition and is trusted and accepted by many countries and more institutions than PTE Academic, thus, making it the preferred choice for test-takers worldwide. In 2023 IELTS launched IELTS one skill retake worldwide. Recently, PTE has also gained popularity due to its newly launched PTE core test and the latest Canadian international student policies.

4. Is PTE equal to 6.5 in IELTS?

The equivalent of the PTE score to the IELTS 6.5 band score is 58.5. Click here to know more about PTE to IELTS score equivalents.

5. Is PTE accepted in Canada?

PTE is accepted by most Canadian universities and colleges. And, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced that PTE is accepted for Canada Visa applications.

6. Which topic is hardest in PTE?

According to 100 random PTE results, the hardest part of the PTE test is reading followed by writing. 

7. Which English proficiency test is more widely accepted in Canada, PTE, or IELTS? 

IELTS is the widely accepted English proficiency test in Canada, compared to PTE for Canadian Permanent Residency (PR). IELTS has been accepted by IRCC in Canada since 2005, while PTE Academic is considered only a valid option for universities and is now recognised by the Canadian immigration.

8. What is the minimum PTE score required for Canadian immigration or study visa applications?

The minimum PTE score required for Canadian immigration or study visa application is between 58-73.

9. Which test, PTE or IELTS, is more suitable for the Canadian Express Entry Program?

Both PTE and IELTS were accepted by the Canadian Express Entry Program. The test can be selected based on the preferences and strengths of the applicant.