Are you planning to study abroad but can't decide between IELTS Academic and PTE Academic? Both tests assess English proficiency for academic purposes, but they have significant differences in format, scoring, and acceptance. Let's break down everything you need to know to make an informed decision.
Difference Between IELTS Academic and PTE Academic
| Feature | IELTS | PTE |
|---|---|---|
| Full Form | International English Language Testing System | Pearson Test of English |
| Global Acceptance | IELTS is accepted in over 140 countries by more than 11,500 organisations. | PTE is accepted in over 74 countries by over 3,000 organisations. |
| Test Mode | Paper-based or computer-based | Fully computer-based |
| Scoring System | 0 to 9 Band Score A separate scoring system is followed for all four skill types. |
1090 Points Scale An integrated scoring system is followed. |
| Result Time | 35 days (computer-based), up to 7 days (paper-based) | Most probably 48 hours, maximum 3-5 working days |
| Total Duration | Approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes | Approximately 2 hours |
| Speaking Format | The face-to-face speaking section is done with a human examiner, or the virtual (video call) speaking section is done at the IELTS official test centre. | The PTE Academic speaking section is completed on a computer (and is machine-scored and has zero involvement of a real-life assessor). |
Section-Wise Comparison
| Section | IELTS | PTE |
|---|---|---|
| Listening | Up to 30 minutes, 4 sections, 40 questions | 3043 minutes, 8 tasks 15 to 20 questions. Task types: Fill in the Blanks, Summarize Spoken Text, MCQ-single and multiple answers, Highlight Incorrect Words, Highlight Correct Summary, Select Missing Word, Write from dictation. |
| Reading | 60 minutes, 3 passages, 40 questions. Tests comprehension skills for academic-based reading text. | 23-25 minutes, 5 tasks 15 to 18 questions. Task types: MCQ-single and multiple answers, Reorder Paragraphs, Fill in the Blanks (2 types). |
| Writing | 60 minutes, 2 tasks: - Task 1: Report Writing based on the image - Task 2: Essay writing |
40 minutes, 2 tasks - 3 questions Task types: Essay writing (1) and Summarize Written Text (2). |
| Speaking | 11-14 minutes Face-to-face/online interview. Tests fluency, coherence, grammar, pronunciation and vocabulary. | 36-44 minutes, 7 tasks - 30 to 33 questions. Task types: Read Aloud, Repeat Sentence, Describe Image, Retell Lecture, Answer Short question, Summarize Group Discussion and Response to a Situation. |
Quick Summary
| Feature | IELTS | PTE |
|---|---|---|
| Computer-Based | Optional | Mandatory |
| Global Acceptance | More | Less |
| Face-to-Face Speaking with Human Examiner | Yes | No |
| Result Speed | Slower | Faster |
| Scoring Range | 09 Bands | 1090 Points |
| Scoring System | Separated | Integrated |
| Duration of Test | Approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes | Approximately 2 hours |
| Validity | 2 years | 2 years |
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#IELTS Academic#PTE Academic#Test Comparison#English Proficiency#Study Abroad#University Admission#Test Preparation#Scoring System#Global Acceptance#Exam Format