PTE vs IELTS

To gain admission to an international university, proof of your English proficiency through tests likeIELTS or PTEis necessary. However, many students have a dilemma regarding which proficiency exam to choose. PTE vs IELTS; which is better? Which is easy? These are some common questions that most students have. In this blog, we aim to answer these questions to help you determine which test best fits you based on your requirements and skills. 

The IELTS and PTE Academic exams have broadly comparable structures: Speaking, writing, reading, and listening are the four language abilities that are tested in both tests. However, the tasks are timed and organised differently, and the order in which the skills are examined differs. This is just one of the many differences between IELTS and PTE. To know more about PTE vs IELTS, read on. 

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PTE vs IELTS: An Overview 

The following table gives you a comprehensive overview of the differences between the IELTS and PTE exams. 

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IELTS Examination Dates, Test Centres and Fees

PTE Exam Dates, Centres and Fees

PTE vs IELTS: Exam Pattern

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IELTS Exam Syllabus and Pattern

PTE Exam Pattern and Exam Syllabus

PTE vs IELTS Score Calculator 

In a recent report published in December 2020, Pearson compared the PTE-A results to the IELTS' top band score benchmark for English language exams. The report explains that PTE exam takers will need a higher score to be similar to IELTS for an IELTS Band 7 to Band 9 score.

The table below demonstrates how the PTE Academic score compares to the IELTS Academic results:

PTE vs IELTS Score Calculator

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PTE Exam Results and Scoring Comparison 

Difference between IELTS and PTE: Eligibility Criteria 

The IELTS administering organisations have not established any particular requirements to sit for the exam, and it is open to people of all genders, races, nationalities, and religions. While there is no upper age limit, the minimum age at which you can apply for the IELTS exam is 16 years. Applicants who intend to immigrate to or seek further education in an English-speaking nation can appear for the exam. However, it is better if candidates review the eligibility requirements established by the academic institution or organisation to which they wish to apply.

In the case of PTE, applicants must be at least 16 years old to appear for the examination. 

Applicants aged 16 to 18 should submit a parental permission form that can be accessed on pearsonpte.com. A letter or certificate from a qualified medical professional, issued when the applicant was 12 years old or older, must be shown by applicants for exceptional requirements.

Who Accepts PTE Scores?

Most nations, including Australia, the United States, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Singapore, Canada, and New Zealand, accept PTE scores. PTE results are accepted in these nations for immigration and university admission. Almost 3,000 universities worldwide recognise PTE Academic, including Yale University, Harvard Business School, and Oxford University. PTE results can also be used to apply for permanent residency in Australia and New Zealand.

Who Accepts IELTS Scores?

The IELTS exam is accepted in over 140 countries by more than 11,500 organisations, including educational institutions (universities, colleges, schools, etc.), government departments and immigration authorities, professional and industry associations, and big MNCs ( multinational corporations) and employers. 

PTE vs IELTS, Which is Easy?

Neither examination can be categorised as simple or challenging. Some might find one easier to absorb than the other. While many students found the writing section of the PTE exam less difficult than the IELTS alternative, they also found the reading portion of the IELTS test to be simpler than the PTE equivalent. So ultimately, the level of difficulty of each exam is subjective to each student. 

Speaking, Writing, Reading, and Listening are the four core language abilities tested in the PTE and IELTS exams. Apart from changes in the structure and examination mode, neither test can be considered to be easier than the other. However, in either case, you must remember that even though the score on the mock exams is rather high, each exam requires students to prepare to ace it extensively. 

PTE vs IELTS, Which is Better?

Here are some points that highlight the differences between IELTS and PTE. Evaluate the differences to understand which proficiency exam is more suitable for you. 

• IELTS is a better option if you are familiar with the written test format and PTE for those who are comfortable with digital UI.
• Since the PTE Speaking section evaluates candidates strictly on their pronunciation, IELTS is a more apt exam if you have a thick accent.
• If you need to take the test within a few days and report the scores to your desired universities, then PTE has the edge over IELTS owing to its super short booking time and results that can be delivered within 2 days.
• IELTS test is more convenient as you can easily find test centres in your proximity than for PTE. 
• Since PTE tests are given online, and results are generated online, it eliminates the chances of human bias and errors, making PTE scores more dependable than IELTS scores.

In the blog, we have covered the most crucial elements that will help you select a suitable English proficiency exam. Consider your personal preferences while deciding on which exam to take. Remember that getting high grades and moving closer to your dreams depends on the test you select and the effort and preparation you put into achieving your goal. 

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