PTE vs. IELTS | Everything you need to know

When it comes to understanding the purpose of PTE vs IELTS, there is no difference at all. Both tests are designed to gauge your English language knowledge and skill set. In addition, the kind of formatting and questions included in both are primarily similar. So what exactly is different when comparing PTE vs IELTS? 

One key difference that will stare you in the face when comparing PTE vs IELTS is that the former offers you options to attempt the exam in person. Whereas the latter is designed so that one can only attempt it online using a computer. In simpler words, IELTS may require you to attempt a paper-based exam. At the same time, while PTE needs to be attempted in person, you can do so using a computer at the site. 

A closer look at PTE vs IELTS test 

Let us kick off the process of understanding the primary differences between the PTE vs IELTS test. 

• What do these tests stand for? 

PTE stands for Pearson Test of English. PTE is also widely accepted. However, it is a common choice for professionals looking to migrate abroad for work-related purposes. It is accepted by countries like the United States of America, the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada, to name a few. 

Whereas IELTS represents International English Language Testing System. It was jointly established by three leading academic boards: the British Council, Cambridge English Language Assessment, and IDP Australia. 

The test is approved by over ten thousand international organizations, universities, immigration bodies, and schools. A great IELTS score will result in wonders. It will bring you face-to-face with leading universities in countries like the United States of America, Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and Canada, to name a few. 

• What are the test types?

Since PTE is a computer-based test, the kind of questions included may be restrictive by nature. It can range from consisting of multiple-choice questions to essay writing and speaking your responses into the headset. It is as good as attempting the exam online. Whereas IELTS feels like a traditional exam wherein you are expected to write your responses on paper. 

The PTE test types include the following factors –

• Academic test includes a single test.
• General test is divided into three parts – Speaking and writing, listening, and reading. 

The IELTS test types include the following factors –

• There are two types of tests under IELTS, i.e., academic and general training.
• Both tests are divided into four parts – Speaking, writing, listening, and reading. 

• What does the test format entail?

The PTE test format is given below –

Test type	Time	Format
Speaking	70 to 90 minutes	Paraphrase sentencesExplain the visualsRepeat the story in your own words.Write a summary of the given passage.Write an essay.
Writing	60 minutes	Multiple choice questionsRecognize the key detailsIdentify the purpose and opinions in the passage.Match the informationFill in the blanksCreate a summary.
Reading	30 to 40 minutes	Fill in the blanksChoose the right option in multiple-choice questions.Paragraph formation.
Listening	40 to 70 minutes	Write a summary of the text you just heard.Multiple-choice questionFill in the blanksProvide your understandingDictation.

The IELTS test format is given below – 

Test type	Time	Format
Speaking	30 minutes	Paraphrase sentencesPlan or map out visualsMultiple choice questionsWrite an essayComplete the sentenceMatch the information providedLabel the visuals.
Writing	30 to 40 minutes	Fill in the blanksMultiple choice questionsParagraph formation.
Reading	60 minutes	First part- Identify the information.Second part- Attempt an essay.
Listening	10 to 15 minutes	You are required to speak by introducing yourself.You will be given a topic and are expected to speak on it.

• How are they marked? 

The score range in a PTE test is 10 to 90 points. You are marked for each of your communication skills, i.e., speaking and writing, listening, and reading. The overall score is not based on the average calculation of all your scores. Instead, each score has passing criteria that you are required to meet. Scoring accuracy may or may not be up to mark since it follows an automated scoring guide led by the global scale of English. 

The score range in an IELTS test is 0 to 9. Similar to PTE, you are marked for each of your communication skills. Under IELTS, an average score of all four scores is interpreted as your final score. IELTS may be subject to human errors, mainly because an expert like English professional judges it. 

• What else is there to understand?

Since PTE tests are computer-based tests, their results are available reasonably quickly. The maximum time it takes for one to receive PTE test results is five working days. Whereas IELTS test results take a comparatively more extended time. You can expect to receive your scores in thirteen working days. 

Another critical difference in PTE vs IELTS academic modules is that you are required to speak into a microphone under PTE. At the same time, IELTS requires you to talk to an examiner while appearing for the speaking test. 

PTE vs IELTS charges doesn’t vary too much. However, you will be required to pay roughly 14,000 INR for the test. Regarding PTE, you will be required to pay 13,300 INR. 

PTE vs IELTS: How can you score the maximum?

PTE exam vs IELTS scorecard is easy to understand. Once you can grasp the PTE vs IELTS scorecard details well, you stand a better chance of landing high scores. 

PTE scorecard 

PTE scorecards are based on each skill set. There is already a set criterion represented through the global scale of English. It would be best if you focused on your communication skills. Your communication skills will be measured against all four tests, including reading, listening, writing, and speaking. In addition, you will be gauged against items like your spelling, written flow, smoothness in pronunciation, grammar, and oral fluency. 

IELTS scorecard 

The IELTS scorecard is slightly more complex than the PTE scorecard. The scorecard can be understood through the following differences – 

• Listening- This section consists of 40 questions. Answers to each correct question will award you one mark. 
• Reading- The IELTS reading tests consist of 40 questions. Answers to each correct question will award you one mark. 
• Writing- Your scores are assessed against predetermined assessment criteria. Under this, there are four measurements, including coherence, logical thinking, grammar/accuracy, and cohesion.
• Speaking- Your scores are assessed against predetermined assessment criteria. Under this, there are four measurements, including fluency, logical thinking, grammar, accuracy, and pronunciation.

PTE vs IELTS: Comparing the advantages both have to offer

PTE vs IELTS scores have the same kind of global recognition. However, there are distinct benefits that both tests have to offer. Let us take a look at PTE vs IELTS score and their advantages –

What advantages does IELTS offer us?

• IELTS assures accuracy and removes any biases that may come the way.  
• The test criteria are well-defined and accessible. 
• The questionnaire format is relatively easy to find on the internet. Hence, it is easy to prepare well for the test. Two tests are available for you, and you are free to choose either.
• You are allowed to attempt the exam in person and are required to interact with your examiner. 
• IELTS follows a double marking system, which means your marks are peer-reviewed. The double marking system ensures that no bias comes in the way of your marks. 
• The examiner also offers you the option to get your marks reassessed. 
• Each examination is new and unique. Past questions are hardly ever repeated. 

What advantages does PTE have to offer us?

• The test is measured against an unbiased evaluation led by artificial intelligence technology. 
• Since it uses technology to mark your scores, the results are provided to you relatively quickly. 
• PTE is responsible for sharing your marks with the organization/university of your choice. 

Key takeaways

• When choosing between IELTS and PTE, you must consider all the factors. Once you understand them well, you must allow your preference to guide you.
• Be sure to grasp the differences between IELTS and PTE well. 
• You must possess a good foundation in the English language to score well in either of the exams.

FAQs

1. What is easier between PTE vs IELTS?

Both the tests are challenging in their manner – you need to consider the differences well before deciding which exam you want to attempt.

2. I want to apply for a professional working visa in the USA – which test should I attempt?

If you wish to apply for a work visa in the USA, the most common choice is PTE.

3. Is PTE acceptable in New Zealand?

Yes, PTE is acceptable in New Zealand.