Which Exam is Better IELTS vs TOEFL vs PTE

Study Abroad Expert

IELTS vs TOEFL vs PTE helps candidates to understand the difference between each exams. IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE are three widely recognized English language proficiency tests. These tests assess the English language skills of non-native speakers who wish to study, work, or immigrate to English-speaking countries. While all three tests serve a similar purpose, there are some differences in their format, scoring, and acceptance by institutions.

What is IELTS?

IELTS exam is a popular English language proficiency test, accepted worldwide. It is recognized and accepted 10,000 and above universities and immigration bodies all over the world. The test is conducted over 2 days and consists of 4 sections- reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Three of its section are taken on the first day of testing, and the fourth IELTS speaking section is taken separately the next day. This is because the speaking part of the test is done in a one-on-one session with a candidate.

What is TOEFL?

TOEFL is widely accepted English proficiency test. It is accepted among US universities and colleges to test international students’ language abilities. Like IELTS, TOEFL also consists of four major sections, and all of them are now conducted online except for some countries.

What is PTE?

Pearson Test of English (PTE) is a single test that includes both writing and speaking sections. PTE is conducted entirely online. Australia, New Zealand accept PTE visa for their visa processes.

IELTS vs TOEFL vs PTE

IELTS and TOEFL are difficult to score in comparison to PTE. IELTS and TOEFL require consistent practice and preparation before the tests. Here's a comparison of IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE:

TOEFL iBT®	IELTS® Academic	Pearson® Test of English
Communicative language ability in an academic context	English proficiency in academic and non academic environments	English proficiency in academic and non academic environments
100%	About half	Not specified by test provider
4 sections: TOEFL Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing	4 sections: IELTS Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing	3 Sections: PTE Speaking & Writing, Reading, Listening
3hrs and 2hrs (From 26th July)	2.45 hours	2 hours
1 (2 for Paper Edition)	2	1
Yes, a 10-minute break after the Listening section for all test formats	No break during either session	No
Total: 0–120 Each section: 0–30 (1-point increments)	Total: 0–9 Each section: 0–9 (half-band increments)	Total: 10–90 Communicative Skills: 10–90 (1-point increments)
4–8 days (TOEFL test center or Home Edition) Unofficial Reading and Listening scores available immediately after the test 11–13 days for Paper Edition	13 days for paper test, 10 working days in China 3–5 days for computer test	Typically available within 2 days
2 years	2 years	2 years
Human raters plus AI scoring, via a secure online scoring network	Human raters at the test center	AI scoring only
Provides TOEFL Showcase™, a secure portal that shows a test taker’s scores plus a color photo, speaking and writing samples, and more	None	None
Yes (called MyBest® scores)	No	No
2700+ test centers in 190+ countries Test from home worldwide in 215+ countries and territories with TOEFL iBT Home Edition Paper Edition option available in select countries	1600 test centers in 140 countries Test from home in some countries with IELTS Online	400+ test centers in 118 countries Test from home in some countries with PTE Academic Online
11,500+ in 160+ countries, including 100% of universities in Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Ireland, the U.K. and the U.S., and all English-taught programs worldwide	11,000+	3,000+
Free Practice Test, Practice Sets, TOEFL iBT Planner, “The Insider’s Guide” online course, TOEFL Go! app	IELTS Sample questions, one practice test,	Practice app

TOEFL IELTS PTE score comparison will help test-takers to get a better idea about the marking scheme. The exam syllabus and practice papers can provide a better understanding.

FAQs

Ques. What are the main differences between IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE?

Ans. IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE are all standardized tests designed to assess English language proficiency. However, IELTS is more focused on a candidate's ability to communicate effectively in real-life situations, TOEFL emphasizes academic English skills, and PTE evaluates integrated language skills using computer-based tasks.

Ques. Which test is widely accepted globally among IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE?

Ans. All three tests are widely accepted globally. IELTS is preferred in the UK, Australia, and Canada, while TOEFL is commonly accepted in the United States. PTE is also accepted in various English-speaking countries and recognized by an increasing number of institutions worldwide.

Ques. How is the speaking section different in IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE?

Ans. IELTS has a face-to-face speaking interview with an examiner, TOEFL uses recorded spoken responses, and PTE incorporates computer-based voice recognition technology. Each test assesses speaking skills in different ways, ranging from spontaneous conversations to reading aloud.

Ques. Can I choose any of these tests for immigration purposes?

Ans. Yes, many countries accept either IELTS or PTE for immigration purposes. TOEFL is less commonly used for immigration but may be accepted in specific cases.

Ques. Which test is more challenging – IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE?

Ans. Difficulty varies for individuals, but generally, some find IELTS more challenging due to its face-to-face speaking component, while others may prefer the structure of TOEFL or the computer-based format of PTE. It's advisable to choose the test that aligns with personal strengths and preferences.

Ques. How long are the scores valid for IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE?

Ans. IELTS scores are valid for two years, TOEFL scores are valid for two years as well, and PTE scores remain valid for two years.

Ques. Can I send my scores to multiple institutions without an additional fee?

Ans. IELTS and PTE generally allow you to send scores to multiple institutions without extra charges. TOEFL, on the other hand, may have additional fees for sending scores to multiple institutions.

Ques. Is there a difference in test format – paper-based vs. computer-based – for these exams?

Ans. IELTS and TOEFL offer both paper-based and computer-based formats, but PTE is exclusively computer-based. The content and scoring criteria remain consistent across formats for each test.

Ques. Are there regional differences in the popularity of IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE?

Ans. Yes, there are regional preferences. For example, IELTS is more commonly accepted in the UK, while TOEFL is often preferred in the United States. However, the global recognition of all three tests is increasing.

Ques. Can I retake the tests if I am not satisfied with my scores?

Ans. Yes, all three tests allow candidates to retake the exams if they are dissatisfied with their scores. There may be a waiting period and additional fees for retaking the tests.

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