Introduction to IELTS or PTE - The Crucial Choice for Study Abroad

Are you planning to study abroad but unsure about which English proficiency test to take—IELTS or PTE? Both the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) and the Pearson Test of English (PTE) are highly recognized globally, and choosing between the two can feel overwhelming.

This blog will break down the key differences between PTE and IELTS, providing a detailed comparison to help you make an informed decision. 

At Study Smart, as an overseas education consultant in India, we understand the challenges students face and are here to guide you every step of the way.
 

What Are IELTS and PTE?

1. IELTS (International English Language Testing System):

• Conducting Authorities: British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia, and Cambridge Assessment English.
• Purpose: Tests English proficiency for academic and professional settings, widely accepted for study, work, and migration purposes.
• Versions:
  • Academic: For higher education and professional registration.
  • General Training: For migration or work-related purposes.
• Format: Paper-based or computer-delivered.
• Scoring: Band score of 0–9, determined by human evaluators.

2. PTE (Pearson Test of English):

• Conducting Authority: Pearson PLC.
• Purpose: Computer-based language test designed for academic and professional environments.
• Versions:
  • Academic: For university admissions and professional registrations.
  • Young Learners: For children, testing realistic communication skills.
• Format: Exclusively computer-based.
• Scoring: Automated scoring system with a band score of 10–90.

IELTS vs PTE: Key Differences

1. Exam Structure and Content

Factor	IELTS	PTE
Sections	Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking	Speaking & Writing, Reading, Listening
Mode	Paper-based or computer-delivered	Exclusively computer-based
Speaking Test	Face-to-face with an examiner	Speaking into a microphone, evaluated by AI
Duration	~170 minutes	~120 minutes
Writing Tasks	Essay, graph/chart interpretation	Summarise text, essay writing
Flexibility	Can move forward/backward within sections	Fixed time per section; can only move forward

2. Scoring System

• IELTS:
  • Evaluated by humans, which may involve subjective elements.
  • Band score of 0–9.
• PTE:
  • Automated scoring system ensures consistency and eliminates human bias.
  • Score range of 10–90.

3. Results Declaration

• IELTS:
  • Paper-based: Results in 13 days.
  • Computer-delivered: Results in 3–5 days.
• PTE:
  • Results available online within 5 business days.

4. Global Acceptance

• IELTS:
  • Accepted by 11,500+ organisations in 140+ countries, including universities, migration authorities, and professional associations.
• PTE:
  • Accepted by 6,000+ universities globally, including prestigious institutions like Yale, Harvard, and Oxford.
  • Recognized for immigration in countries like Australia and New Zealand.

PTE vs IELTS: Which Test is Easier?

Speaking Section

• PTE: Candidates speak into a microphone, and AI evaluates their pronunciation and fluency. Ideal for those uncomfortable with face-to-face conversations.
• IELTS: A real-life conversation with an examiner. Better for individuals who perform well in interactive settings.

Writing Section

• PTE: Computer-based with tasks like summarising written text. Preferred by those confident in typing.
• IELTS: Handwritten tasks, including essays and graphs. Suitable for candidates comfortable with writing by hand.

Listening & Reading Sections

Both tests evaluate comprehension skills, with difficulty levels generally comparable.

Scoring

• PTE: Fully automated, ensuring objectivity.
• IELTS: Human scoring, which allows for a nuanced evaluation but may include subjective biases.

Test Availability and Locations

• IELTS:
  • Conducted in 900+ centres across 130+ countries.
  • Academic test: 48 dates annually.
  • General test: 24 dates annually.
• PTE:
  • Available in 50+ countries with flexible dates based on seat availability.
  • In India, PTE has test centres in 15+ cities.

How to Choose Between PTE and IELTS?

1. Test Format Preference:
   • Opt for PTE if you’re comfortable with computers and prefer automated assessments.
   • Choose IELTS if you perform better in traditional formats and face-to-face interactions.
2. University or Immigration Requirements:
   • Verify the preferred test for your destination. Both tests are widely accepted, but some institutions or immigration authorities may have specific preferences.
3. Proximity of Test Centers:
   • IELTS has more test centres globally, making it a more convenient option for some candidates.
4. Accent and Pronunciation:
   • PTE’s speaking section emphasises pronunciation, making IELTS a better choice for candidates with stronger regional accents.

Conclusion

Choosing between IELTS and PTE depends on your preferences, strengths, and goals. While both tests are globally accepted and widely recognized, understanding their differences will help you make the right choice for your study or immigration journey.

Still unsure about which test to take? Connect with us at Study Smart, a trusted overseas education consultant in India. We provide expert coaching for both IELTS and PTE, offering personalised guidance, mock tests, and tips to help you achieve your desired scoreWe will help you to make an informed decision and also prepare confidently to succeed in your chosen test. Good luck on your study abroad journey!
 

Contact Us

For more information about IELTS and PTE coaching in Pune, Kolhapur and Delhi, visit www.studysmart.co.in.