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In the realm of English language proficiency tests, the PTE (Pearson Test of English) and IELTS (International English Language Testing System) stand out as popular choices for students and professionals worldwide. However, understanding how scores from these tests equate can be challenging. With the increasing acceptance of PTE tests in countries like Australia and the UK, and recent data suggesting a surge in the number of test-takers, the need for PTE to IELTS Score Conversion mechanism has never been more essential. This guide aims to demystify this process, offering insights into how scores from these distinct tests correlate, thus empowering test-takers in their international study and migration journeys.
What are PTE Vs IELTS Scores?
PTE and IELTS are standardised tests used to assess the English language proficiency of non-native English speakers. Both tests are widely recognised globally by universities, employers, and government bodies for immigration purposes.
PTE Test Overview:
The Pearson Test of English (PTE) is a computer-based academic English language test aimed at non-native English speakers wanting to study abroad. It assesses reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills, offering a fast, fair, and flexible way of proving English proficiency for university admissions. Unlike traditional tests, PTE results can be available in as little as 48 hours, and it is widely recognised by universities, colleges, and governments around the world.
Score Range: 10 to 90
Skills Tested: Speaking, Writing, Reading, and Listening
Format: Computer-based
Scoring: Automated scoring system
IELTS test Overview
The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a standardised English proficiency test for non-native English speakers. It assesses all four language skills: listening, reading, writing, and speaking. The test is divided into two types: Academic, for those applying for higher education or professional registration, and General Training, for those migrating to Australia, Canada, and the UK, or applying for secondary education, training programs, and work experience in an English-speaking environment.
Band Scale: 1 to 9
Skills Tested: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking
Formats: Paper-based (IELTS) and computer-delivered (CD-IELTS)
Scoring: Evaluated by human examiners
Why PTE to IELTS Score Conversion?
Understanding PTE to IELTS score conversion is crucial for students and professionals aiming to study or work in English-speaking countries. This conversion helps in comparing performance across two of the most widely recognised English proficiency tests. Given the distinct scoring systems of the PTE band score chart(ranging from 10 to 90) and IELTS (band scores from 1 to 9), understanding equivalencies ensures fair assessment and alignment with the required language proficiency standards of universities and professional bodies. It bridges the gap between two testing frameworks, allowing individuals and institutions to accurately interpret scores for academic and migration purposes
The conversion from PTE to IELTS scores serves as a crucial bridge for individuals seeking educational, professional, or immigration opportunities across different countries. This conversion allows test-takers who have taken the Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE-A) to understand how their scores relate to the IELTS band scale, widely accepted by institutions and organisations worldwide. By converting PTE scores to IELTS, individuals can meet specific requirements set by universities, employers, or immigration bodies, facilitating a smoother application process. This equivalency ensures that candidates can showcase their English proficiency effectively, regardless of the test format they initially chose, expanding their opportunities globally.
Converting PTE to IELTS Score
Converting PTE scores to IELTS band scores involves understanding the equivalency between the two testing systems to facilitate academic and professional opportunities abroad. Both exams assess English proficiency in speaking, writing, reading, and listening. However, they employ different scoring scales: PTE scores range from 10 to 90, while IELTS band scores are between 1 and 9.
Overall IELTS Score to PTE Score
IELTS |
5 |
5.5 |
6 |
6.5 |
7 |
7.5 |
8 |
8.5 |
PTE |
40.8 |
45.4 |
51.6 |
58.5 |
66.3 |
74.6 |
82.3 |
88.1 |
Concordance Table Between IELTS and Pearson PTE
The Concordance Table between IELTS and Pearson PTE provides a comparative analysis of scores, facilitating the understanding of how PTE Academic scores relate to IELTS band scores. This table is based on extensive research and is designed to help users, institutions, and organisations convert PTE scores to their IELTS equivalents, offering a range of scores from PTE's 10-90 scale to IELTS's 1-9 band scale. This conversion tool aids in ensuring a standardised comparison between the two tests, assisting in academic and professional assessments.
IELTS Band |
PTE-A Overall |
Listening |
Reading |
Speaking |
Writing |
5 |
40.8 |
40.2 |
43.0 |
40.2 |
43.1 |
5.5 |
45.4 |
42.7 |
47.9 |
42.2 |
51.0 |
6 |
51.6 |
48.1 |
53.5 |
46.2 |
62.2 |
6.5 |
58.5 |
56.8 |
60.6 |
53.5 |
74.1 |
7 |
66.3 |
66.2 |
67.6 |
65.3 |
82.3 |
7.5 |
74.6 |
73.9 |
73.7 |
75.3 |
87.5 |
8 |
82.3 |
79.4 |
78.4 |
80.9 |
89.4 |
8.5 |
88.1 |
84.7 |
83.7 |
85.5 |
89.5 |
PTE To IELTS Band Score Convertion
PTE - A Score Range |
IELTS Band Score |
86 & above |
9 |
83-85 |
8.5 |
79-82 |
8 |
73-78 |
7.5 |
65-72 |
7 |
59-64 |
6.5 |
51-58 |
6 |
43-50 |
5.5 |
35-42 |
5 |
30-34 |
4.5 |
Step-by-step Guide on Converting PTE scores to IELTS bands
Creating a step-by-step guide on converting PTE scores to IELTS bands involves understanding and utilising conversion charts or tables that illustrate how scores from the Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE-A) align with IELTS band scores. These charts typically show a range of PTE scores alongside their equivalent IELTS bands, facilitating easy comparison. To convert a PTE score to an IELTS band, follow these steps:
- Identify Your PTE Score: First, determine your overall score in the PTE Academic test.
- Refer to a Conversion Chart: Use a conversion chart that correlates PTE scores with IELTS bands. These charts are often available on educational websites and are based on research studies.
- Locate Your PTE Score on the Chart: Find your PTE score in the chart.
- Find the Corresponding IELTS Band: Directly across from your PTE score, the chart will list the equivalent IELTS band.
- Consider Score Variations: Understand that these conversions are approximate and can vary slightly depending on the version of the chart and the specific skills assessed.
- Use the Conversion for Guidance: Use this converted score as a guideline, especially for educational institutions or organisations that specifically require IELTS scores but accept PTE.
- Check Specific Requirements: Always check with the specific institution or organisation for their accepted scores, as they might have particular conversion standards or preferences.
What is the Difference Between PTE Vs IELTS Exam?
The comparison table below showcases the differences between the PTE vs IELTS exams considering several key aspects such as the format, scoring, purpose, and popularity.
Factors |
PTE Exam |
IELTS Exam |
Exam Format |
||
Test Format |
Computer-based testing; includes speaking, writing, reading, and listening |
Paper-based or computer-based; includes speaking, writing, reading, and listening |
Listening |
Integrated with speaking and writing |
Separate section, various question types |
Reading |
Single timed part, multiple question types |
Several passages, different tasks |
Writing |
Integrated with reading and listening |
Two tasks, includes essay writing |
Speaking |
Conducted as part of the test |
Separate face-to-face interview |
Scoring Patterns & Criteria |
||
Scoring |
Digital scoring with granular detail |
Human assessors, band scores |
Evaluation Criteria |
Focus on communicative skills and enabling skills |
Focus on linguistic ability |
Results |
Available within 5 business days |
Available within 13 days (paper-based) or 3-5 days (computer-based) |
Test Availability & Recognition |
||
Purpose |
Primarily for studying abroad and immigration |
Widely accepted for academic, immigration, and professional purposes |
Availability |
Flexible scheduling, frequent test dates |
Set dates, less frequent |
Locations |
Widespread global availability |
Broad international recognition |
Recognition |
Accepted by many institutions and governments |
Widely recognised globally |
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Frequently Asked Questions
An IELTS score of 7 approximately aligns with a PTE score in the range of 65-72.