PTE vs IELTS: Which Test is Your Gateway to Studying Abroad?
Planning to study abroad can be an overwhelming experience. Firstly, the students have to decide the course and then the country from where they want to study. Irrespective of the destination and course they need to be fluent in the use of English language as most of the courses are imparted in English. They also need to submit proof of their proficiency in English. To get the same tests like PTE or IELTS etc are taken. Students often find it difficult to decide between the PTE and IELTS exam. Both tests assess English proficiency but differ in their format, scoring, and purpose. Knowing the differences between the two is crucial for making a better decision. This blog provides a detailed comparison between PTE vs IELTS and helps you decide which exam will be better suited for your academic journey.
Formats for PTE vs IELTS
One of the primary aspects that differentiates PTE vs IELTS is the format of the exam. Let’s have a look at the comparison:
PTE (Pearson Test of English) Academic
- Mode: Computer-based test.
- Sections: Speaking & Writing (combined), Reading, and Listening.
- Duration: 2 hours approx.
- Scoring: Automated, based on AI algorithms.
- Skills Assessed: reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
IELTS (International English Language Testing System) Academic
- Mode: Available in both computer-based and paper-based formats.
- Sections: Speaking (separate), Writing, Reading, and Listening.
- Duration: 2 hours and 45 minutes approx.
- Scoring: Human examiners evaluate the writing and speaking sections.
- Skills Assessed: Separate focus on each skill (reading, writing, listening, and speaking).
PTE’s computer-based test is selected by those students who are comfortable using technology. On the other hand, IELTS offers a traditional exam approach as it is human-evaluated (speaking test).
Difference Between PTE vs IELTS
Beyond format, there are other differences that set apart PTE vs IELTS, like scoring systems, question types, and global acceptance. Let’s check all of them:
Scoring
- PTE: Uses an AI-powered automated scoring system. The scoring is based on precision and technical correctness.
- IELTS: The exam is evaluated by human examiners. The IELTS exam allows more subjectivity in speaking and writing, as human evaluators may interpret responses differently.
Question Types
- PTE: Has questions that assess multiple skills simultaneously. For instance, while reading a passage you may be asked to record a spoken summary.
- IELTS: Questions in the IELTS exam are skill-specific. For instance, the speaking section is similar to a face-to-face interview with an examiner, while PTE’s speaking test is computer-recorded.
Test result Availability
- PTE: Results are made available within 2 business days, which makes it a fast option for students with tight deadlines.
- IELTS: Results take about 5-7 days for the computer-based version and 13 days for the paper-based version.
Exam Fees and University Acceptance
The exam fees and university acceptance are the additional factors that can also influence your choice.
Fees
- PTE: The exam fee for PTE Academic is INR 17,000 which includes 18% tax.
- IELTS: The IELTS General and Academic exam fee is INR 17,000.
University Acceptance
Before deciding to take PTE or IELTS, one must check the requirements of the universities. Both exams are accepted widely by universities globally, including those offering MS in Germany and other European nations. However, IELTS from ages has been commonly recognized by institutions in the UK, Australia, and Canada, and PTE is now gaining acceptance. So, it’s always a good idea to double-check the requirements with your university.
For students looking to study abroad, both exams are valid options, but the exam accepted by your university can be a deciding factor.
Which Exam is Easier?
No exam is universally easier. You must focus on your comfort level with the testing format.
For PTE:
- Strengths: Students who are tech-savvy and comfortable with fast-paced tests.
- Challenges: The integrated skill questions can be tricky and require efficient time management.
For IELTS:
- Strengths: Suited for those who prefer face-to-face speaking tests and a clear division between test sections.
- Challenges: The human-evaluated sections might introduce subjectivity in speaking and writing.
Which Exam Should Students Choose?
The choice depends on several factors like your study abroad destination, university requirements, and test-taking style.
For Students Seeking Faster Results
- PTE: PTE may be a better option for students with tight application deadlines as the results are delivered within 2 business days.
- IELTS: IELTS remains a safe bet if you’re applying to traditional institutions, though it takes longer to receive results.
Ultimately, your decision should be influenced by your study destination, comfort with the test format, and university preferences.
Conclusion
Choosing between PTE and IELTS is a difficult decision for students planning to study abroad. Both exams are used to show English language proficiency. You must make sure which test is accepted by your chosen universities and then think about other factors. Ultimately, the best exam is the one that aligns with your strengths and the requirements of your institution. By comparing the differences in format, university acceptance, ease of test-taking, and exam fees, you can make a choice that sets you on the path to academic success abroad.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, PTE is gaining recognition in Germany nowadays. But all universities do not accept it yet. So, you must confirm with your selected institution first.
Neither of the exams is more difficult. If you prefer computerized tests and questions testing multiple skills together, PTE may sound better. If you’re more comfortable with a traditional human testing system, IELTS should be preferred.
Yes, you can take both tests and submit the results depending on the university’s requirements.
Both PTE and IELTS scores are valid for two years.