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    IELTS vs PTE: Which is Better for You?

    IELTS vs PTE

    If you’re planning to study, work, or migrate abroad, proving your English proficiency is the first step. Two of the most recognized tests for this purpose are the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) and PTE (Pearson Test of English). 

    But which one should you take? 

    Both IELTS and PTE assess your English skills in Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking, but they differ in test format, scoring, and ease of preparation. In this blog, we’ll explore the key differences between IELTS and PTE, including their exam structure, scoring system, acceptance, difficulty level, and costs—helping you decide which test suits your needs best.

    IELTS vs PTE: What's the Difference?

    Both IELTS and PTE serve the same purpose but differ significantly in format. IELTS is available in both paper-based and computer-based modes, while PTE is only available in a computer-based format. Here’s a side-by-side comparison:

    Feature

    IELTS

    PTE

    Test Format

    Paper-based & Computer-based

    Completely Computer-based

    Speaking Test

    Conducted face-to-face with an examiner

    Conducted via computer

    Scoring System

    Band score (0-9) for each section

    Scored on a scale of 10-90

    Result Declaration

    3-5 days (Computer), 13 days (Paper)

    Usually within 2 days

    Acceptance

    Recognised globally (study, work, PR)

    Accepted in many countries but not all institutions

    Difficulty Level

    Requires structured answers & fluency

    AI evaluation requires precision in pronunciation & fluency

    Ready to ace your IELTS exam? Get expert guidance from our study abroad consultants with Yocket Prep. Book a free call today!

    IELTS vs PTE: Syllabus & Exam Pattern

    Both tests assess the same four language skills, but their format and question types vary.

    Section

    IELTS

    PTE

    Speaking

    • Time: 11-14 minutes
    • Task Type: Face-to-face interview with the examiner
    • Purpose: Tests fluency, coherence, lexical resource, and pronunciation
    • Time: 20 minutes
    • Task Type: AI-evaluated recorded responses
    • Purpose: Assesses pronunciation, fluency, and spoken grammar

    Writing

    • Time: 60 minutes
    • Task Type: Task 1 - Letter (General) / Report (Academic), Task 2 - Essay writing
    • Purpose: Evaluate coherence, lexical resource, and grammar accuracy
    • Time: 40 minutes
    • Task Type: Summarizing written text, Essay writing
    • Purpose: Tests clarity, coherence, vocabulary, and grammar

    Reading

    • Time: 30 minutes
    • Task Type: Passage-based multiple-choice, matching headings, sentence completion, etc.
    • Purpose: Assesses comprehension, skimming, and scanning skills
    • Time: 32-40 minutes
    • Task Type: Fill in the blanks, re-order paragraphs, multiple-choice
    • Purpose: Evaluate reading speed, understanding, and inference skills

    Listening

    • Time: 30-35 minutes
    • Task Type: Audio-based multiple-choice, sentence completion, short-answer questions
    • Purpose: Tests ability to understand spoken English and extract key information
    • Time: 45-57 minutes
    • Task Type: Summarizing spoken text, multiple-choice, fill-in-the-blanks
    • Purpose: Evaluates comprehension, note-taking, and attention to detail

    Suggested: IELTS Exam Pattern

    PTE vs IELTS: Score Comparison

    Most universities require an IELTS score of 6.0-7.5 or a PTE score of 50-65 for admission, depending on the university and program.

    Since both tests have different scoring systems, here’s how PTE scores convert to IELTS bands, along with their performance levels:

    Performance Level

    IELTS Band

    PTE Score

    Expert

    9.0

    86 - 90

    Very Good

    8.0

    79 - 85

    Good

    7.0

    65 - 78

    Competent

    6.0

    50 - 64

    Modest

    5.0

    36 - 49

    PTE vs IELTS: Cost and Acceptance

    The cost of PTE and IELTS varies by country, but here’s a general comparison:

    Feature

    IELTS

    PTE

    Cost (approx.)

    INR 17000

    INR 17000

    Acceptance

    Accepted by over 11,000 institutions worldwide

    Accepted by universities, but fewer immigration bodies

    Results Delivery

    3-13 days

    1-2 days

    Read also: IELTS Exam Fee

    PTE vs IELTS: Which is Easier?

    If you're wondering whether PTE or IELTS is easier, it depends on your strengths and test preferences.

    Based on general student feedback and discussions across Reddit, Quora, and Yocket's study abroad community, around 60–70% of test-takers tend to find PTE easier than IELTS.

    Mainly because of:

    Go for PTE if you're comfortable with computer-based tests, AI scoring, and speaking into a microphone instead of interacting with an examiner. It’s also a better choice if you want faster results (within 24-48 hours) and prefer automated, unbiased scoring.

    Choose IELTS if you’re more confident in a traditional test format with human examiners, especially for the Speaking section. It’s also a good option if you prefer paper-based or computer-based tests with structured questions.

    Ultimately, both exams assess the same skills, so pick the one that aligns with your test-taking style! 

    From the Desk of Yocket

    Preparing for exams like IELTS, TOEFL, GRE, PTE and GMAT can feel overwhelming, but with Yocket Prep, you get the right tools to study smarter, not harder. We help students choose the best test based on their academic and career goals. 

    So, whether you opt for IELTS or PTE, we provide expert guidance, mock tests, and study plans to help you achieve your target score. Whether you're aiming for a top score or just getting started, Yocket Prep is designed to help you succeed. Start your journey with confidence today!

    FAQs About IELTS vs PTE

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