IELTS vs PTE: A Comparative Guide For International Students

When it comes to studying abroad, one of the crucial steps in the application process is demonstrating proficiency in the English language. Universities worldwide often require applicants to submit test scores as proof of their English language skills. Among the various English language tests available, two prominent options that consistently rise to the top are the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) and the Pearson Test of English (PTE).

IELTS and PTE have emerged as the go-to choices for many students aspiring to pursue their education abroad. These tests evaluate the four essential language skills: listening, reading, writing, and speaking. With similarities in their exam structure and purpose, it's essential to understand the nuances that set them apart.

General Differences Between IELTS vs PTE

Both the IELTS and PTE evaluations are well organised to assess the overall English competency of a test taker. While IELTS has options for computer-based and pen-and-paper tests, PTE offers only computer-based tests. An overview of both tests will let you know the significant differences, which can be obtained from the following table:

Must read: A comparison between IELTS vs TOEFL vs PTE vs Duolingo

IELTS vs PTE Exam Format

As mentioned earlier, IELTS and PTE are almost similar in test format and syllabus. Both assess the test-takers reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. IELTS has UK and US variants of English as its test medium, while PTE offers UK, US, and Australian variants of English. 

See the tables below that give details on the test patterns of both the English language tests, and decide which test has an easier syllabus as per your abilities

IELTS Exam Format:

PTE Exam Format:

Must read: Which exam to take to study in US?

IELTS VS PTE Score Comparison

IELTS measures the scores as bands of 0 - 9 with 0.5 increments of bands. It applies to each section; the collective average is taken as the IELTS band score. Universities abroad usually demand a minimum of 6 - 6.5 in IELTS. *Standard Error Measurement (SEM) is 0.23 of an IELTS band.

PTE uses a Global Scale of English (GSE) of 10 - 90 marks. Each section has the same scale, and the collective average becomes the PTE score. A candidate must have a minimum of 55 - 60 out of 90 in the PTE to get admission to better universities abroad. The standard Error Measurement (SEM) is 2.3.

Equivalents of IELTS band scores and PTE GSE scores would look like:

*(PTE-A stands for PTE Academic. Since there is no variant of PTE like IELTS General Training tests, both PTE and PTE-A signify PTE Academic)

Scores obtained in both tests are valid for two years. See the table below for the scoring criteria for each test:

*Standard Error Measurement (SME) is the variation in a test-taker's score if taking it more than once.

Know how to convert IELTS scores to other exams 

IELTS vs PTE: Fees And Acceptance Rates

IELTS and PTE differ in their application fees and acceptance rates as given below:

• 
  IELTS vs PTE fees: There is no significant difference in the application fee for the IELTS and PTE. While the IELTS fee is 16,250 INR (198 USD), the fee for PTE is 15,900 INR (194 USD).

• 
  IELTS vs PTE acceptance rate: Thanks to its early establishment in 1989, the IELTS has a greater acceptance rate than PTE. More than 11,000 institutions across 140 countries accept IELTS scores. PTE has enjoyed growing popularity since its start in 2009. Currently, 3,000+ institutions across the globe accept PTE as proof of language proficiency. 

PTE vs IELTS: How the Scoring System Works

PTE and IELTS scores are based on different scales and we will explain each in detail. 

PTE Scoring:

PTE scores are based on your communicative skills and overall performance. PTE scores are based on points, ranging from 10 to 90 with 10-point intervals. You will receive a detailed scorecard of points scored in each category.

IELTS Scoring:

IELTS scores are based on also based on your overall competence with the English language. It tests task response, coherence and cohesion, lexical resource grammatical range, and accuracy. Scoring is based on a band system, which ranges from 0 to 9, with a gap of 0.5 per section.

Your overall band score is calculated as the average of the four sections. The acceptable range is from 6.0 to 6.5 for most universities.

An important difference between IELTS and PTE tests is that PTE is completely computer-marked, that computer will check and score you according to your answers, whereas in IELTS, the Reading and Listening sections are computer-marked, but the Writing and Speaking sections are marked by certified IELTS Examiners. 

IELTS Vs PTE: Key Commonalities

Let us understand what are the similarities between these two tests.

Language Proficiency Assessment:

The primary purpose of both exams is to check your proficiency in English, in all forms, that is writing, reading, speaking, and listening.

Components of Assessment:

IELTS and PTE tests are based on four essential components - Reading, Writing, Speaking, and Listening - to check your language skills in all aspects.

Language Varieties:

IELTS was earlier a pen-and-paper exam but is now available as a computer-based test, and PTE, a computer-based test from the beginning, provides candidates with the flexibility to respond in either the major UK or US English dialects. British and American variations of the language are also accepted.

Scoring System:

Both IELTS and PTE use a detailed scoring system to assess your performance in all four sections, providing a complete evaluation of your language abilities.

Global Recognition:

IELTS and PTE are both popular and accepted by most universities, employers, and immigration authorities around the world which makes them essential for academic and professional purposes.

Important Contrasts for IELTS Vs PTE

Let us understand the key differences between these two tests based on various factors.

Test Versions and Acceptance Worldwide:

• 
  IELTS offers two versions: IELTS Academic and IELTS General. Academic is suitable for student visas, while General is generally preferred for permanent residency, immigration, and other visa categories.

• 
  PTE Academic is accepted in various visa categories, including student and permanent residency, in countries like Australia and New Zealand.

• 
  Acceptance Rate: IELTS is accepted by more than 11,500 universities, however, PTE Academic is accepted by more than 3000 universities only.

Test Registration Process:

• 
  IELTS is conducted by IDP India, with test centers run and managed by these organizations.
• 
  PTE is conducted by Pearson, and test centers are managed by Pearson and franchise partners.
• 
  IELTS can be registered online and offline through IDP and the British Council, while PTE registration is done through the Pearson website.

Scores Availability:

• 
  For the pen-and-paper version, IELTS takes 13 days and for the computer version, it takes around 3 to 5 days.
• 
  PTE does not have a pen-and-paper version, it conducts tests in a computer-based version only and test results are available within 2 days.

Format of the Score

• 
  IELTS separately provides scores on a scale between 0 and 9, with the overall score is the average of individual scores in listening, speaking, reading, and writing.
• 
  PTE scores range from 10 to 90, with separate scores for Pronunciation, Oral Fluency, Grammar, Written Discourse, and Vocabulary, in addition to the overall score.

Conversion Table for IELTS to PTE Score

Please refer to the table below for the conversion of scores from IELTS to PTE:

PTE vs IELTS: Which is Easier?

• 
  As per the popular opinion, PTE Academic is considered easier than the IELTS.
• 
  IELTS is considered challenging as it requires a deeper understanding of grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation.
• 
  PTE Academic evaluates on practical aspects of communicative English thus making it more adaptable to test takers.

IELTS vs PTE: Which is the Right Test For You?

Now it's time to decide which is the proper test for you. Although IELTS and PTE are equally efficient, you can choose one over the other in personal situations as listed below:

• 
  If you prefer a pen-and-paper mode over the computerized test, you must go for the IELTS.
• 
  PTE results are usually declared quite earlier as compared to IELTS, so if waiting time is a concern, then go for PTE. 
• 
  IELTS speaking section will be on another day. PTE will save you time, for the test is wrapped up in one day. 
• 
  If you fear the evaluator's mood changes and biases, take PTE instead of IELTS, for the PTE is entirely computer-evaluated.
• 
  PTE accepts Australian English too. So it is better to take PTE to study in Australia or New Zealand.

In essence, because more people take IELTS should not force you to ignore PTE, which has its own merits over IELTS. Learn well about both tests, take ample time to list your personal concerns, and go for a test that suits your purposes well. If you need more guidance regarding the entrance tests, book a 30-minute call and take advantage of our expert’s help. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is PTE easier than IELTS?

 

It cannot be said which is easier among IELTS and PTE as the opinion is specific to the test-taker. IELTS and PTE assess the test-taker’s English skills in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Apart from the minor differences in exam structure and examination mode, there are not many differences between IELTS and PTE.

What score equals the IELTS band score of 7 in PTE? 

 

An overall PTE score of 66.3 can be equivalent to an IELTS band score of 7.0.

Is PTE accepted in Canada? 

 

Yes, PTE is accepted in Canada for study purposes but is not valid for work and immigration. However, PTE Core, which is expected to be launched later in 2023, has been accepted for work and immigration in Canada. 

Which is better - IELTS or PTE? 

 

Deciding which is better for you is highly case-specific. Since both tests are widely recognized and share the same pattern of assessment, you may go through the terms and conditions of both tests closely to decide which is better for you. Consider your priorities and cross-check them with both tests to select the more suitable test between IELTS and PTE.

How to get an IELTS equivalent of 8 in PTE?

 

To get an IELTS equivalent of 8.0 in PTE, a student must secure a score of at least 79 - 82 in all sections of PTE. 

In which countries the PTE is accepted? 

 

The PTE is accepted in many countries, including the US, the UK, Canada, Germany, Australia, New Zealand, France, the Netherlands, etc. 

Which countries accept IELTS scores? 

 

IELTS is the most popular English test that has been accepted by many countries in the world, such as the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, European countries, etc.