Difference between PTE and IELTS

Both IELTS & PTE are known for assessing English skills of non-native speakers. But what is difference between PTE and IELTS? Let’s find out!
Difference between PTE and IELTS

Whether it is immigration or studying abroad, one has to validate their English skills through an English language proficiency test. Hence, both IELTS and PTE are known for validating the English proficiency of candidates planning to connect with an English-speaking country. However, what is the difference between PTE and IELTS? Let’s see which one is a perfect fit for you! 

Interesting, right? Let’s see How to prepare for IELTS in 2 months

What is IELTS?

IELTS or The International English Language Testing System is a worldwide accepted English language proficiency test that is used for studying abroad, immigration, and international employment. In addition, IELTS is jointly administered by the British Council and is the most given exam which marked its growth to 3.5 million in the last year.

What is PTE?

Pearson English Test or PTE is another highly given exam for testing English language  proficiency. However, it is a much faster in approach and based on Artificial Intelligence (AI). Although there is almost little to no difference in exam pattern for IELTS and PTE.

The major difference between PTE and IELTS
1. Authority of Test
  • IELTS – IELTS exam is jointly administered by the British Council, IELTS Australia, and Cambridge University. 
  • PTE – On the other hand, the PTE exam is administered by the Pearson PLC group.
2. Test Format
  • IELTS – Format of the IELTS exam is conducted in two modes: General Training and Academic. Hence, General training is used when one is willing to move casually and use everyday English for the workplace and social factors or secondary education. However, Academic is for when one is willing to pursue higher education and use English for professional purposes.
  • PTE – Format of PTE is mainly designed to pursue higher education and professional settings.
3. Test Type
  • IELTS – IELTS tests candidates’ English proficiency through 4 tests, Reading, Writing, Speaking, and Listening. However, this exam has been conducted both offline and digitally to bring more flexibility during times of pandemics.
  • PTE – As mentioned previously, there is almost little to no difference in exam patterns for IELTS and PTE. Hence, PTE also tests candidates’ English proficiency through  Reading, Writing, Speaking, and Listening but speaking and writing are included in 1 single test. Meanwhile, PTE is conducted completely online.
4. Scoring System
  • IELTS – IELTS includes a scoring system based on bands (0-9) and is tested manually.  
  • PTE – However, PTE scores overall points for each skill in the range of (10-90) and is completely automated against the Global scale of English.
5. Result Timing
  • IELTS – IELTS results, if paper-based, then within 13 days. However, if computer-based then it will take around 5 days from the exam date. 
  • PTE – Results of PTE are generally declared within 5 business days
6. Charges
  • IELTS – Fees for IELTS is INR 14,000 (USD $185). 
  • PTE – However, the charges for PTE exam are INR 13,300 (USD $160).
7. Acceptance Level
  • IELTS – As mentioned above, IELTS is known for being accepted globally. In addition, it is helpful and even mandatory for almost all foreign-related things, whether its immigration, studying abroad, or international employment. 
  • PTE – On the other hand, PTE might not be accepted for immigration to foreign countries. However, PTE is widely accepted for studying aboard purposes.

Summing up, now you know what is best for you and what are the key differences between IELTS and PTE. Therefore, you can now decide what is your purpose for the foreign land and prepare for any of these exams.

Must Check: How to crack IELTS with these 3 quick tips

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *