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PTE vs IELTS : Know the Difference and Which is Easier?

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By:CANAM Group
Updated On:Mar 06,2024 04:30 PM IST

Choosing an appropriate English proficiency test is crucial for all international students and immigrants. IELTS and PTE are the two most popular options a candidate has, but they differ from each other in various factors like format, scoring, acceptance, and cost. This blog explores all the potential differences between these two tests.

An English Proficiency Test is required to study in countries like Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the United States, or the United Kingdom. PTE and IELTS are the two most prevalent assessments that students can take before commencing their higher education. PTE vs. IELTS: Which one should a candidate select before pursuing their dreams?

Candidates seeking higher education abroad must demonstrate their English language skills. IELTS Academic has long been the preferred exam for those looking to study abroad. The British Council, IDP, and Cambridge Assessment English collaborated to deliver the IELTS test. However, the Pearson Test of English (PTE) has recently acquired favour for demonstrating English ability for international admission.

In this blog, we will discuss the significance and important distinctions between IELTS and PTE.

IELTS vs PTE: An overview

Although IELTS and PTE are both examinations meant to evaluate a candidate's English competence and abilities, there are notable variations between them.

1. IELTS offers both a traditional pen-and-paper test and a computer-based test, which are accessible in various time windows. Thus, a test taker may select the style of examination that is most pleasant for them. In comparison, PTE exclusively provides a computer-based test.

2. Both the PTE and IELTS examinations assess the same essential language skills: speaking, writing, reading, and listening. Except for changes in examination style and pattern, no test is easier than another.

3. The total duration for both tests is three hours. IELTS has four portions with significantly lengthy assignments, while the PTE comprises numerous brief activities spread throughout the three parts. Compared to IELTS, PTE places a greater focus on speaking and writing.

The key distinction between IELTS and PTE is that IELTS allows a test-taker to choose between a paper-based exam and a computer-delivered exam, whereas the PTE examination is entirely computer-based and scored by a machine. Furthermore, with IELTS, the speaking component is performed in the form of a face-to-face conversation with an examiner, but with PTE, a candidate must speak to a computer.

IELTS vs PTE: Exam Pattern

When studying for language exams, it is vital to comprehend the peculiarities of the test pattern, sections, organization, and time constraints.

The IELTS exam consists of four test components, which are ordered as follows:

Test components in IELTS.webp

The PTE exam consists of three test portions.

Test components in PTE.webp

The following table summarizes the major components of PTE vs. IELTS:

Exam Section	PTE	IELTS
Listening	In a 45- to 57-minute portion, respond to a series of questions based on audio and video materials.	Students need to complete 40 questions in 30 minutes throughout four recordings.
Reading	In 32 to 40 minutes, perform objective activities such as MCQs, filling out blanks, and sequencing passages of text.	Students have to answer 40 questions in 30 minutes across three texts
Speaking	These two sections are combined in the PTE for 77- 93 minutes. Students must accomplish a variety of tasks, including introducing themselves, reading aloud, describing imagery, summarizing readings, and writing essays.	In the IELTS writing Task, there are two essays to write in 60 minutes. The first is an analysis of a visual graph or data, and the second is an argumentative activity in which the aspirant explains a point of view.
Writing	These two sections are combined in the PTE for 77- 93 minutes. Students must accomplish a variety of tasks, including introducing themselves, reading aloud, describing imagery, summarizing readings, and writing essays.	This section demands students to speak to the examiner about themselves, provide an opinion on a topic, or finally describe abstract concepts.

IELTS vs PTE: Scoring

IELTS is rated on a range of 0 to 9, with a 0.5 gap between each component, and then averaged for the four sections where institutions need minimum scores of 6.0 and 6.5. Candidates are given an IELTS band score for each area, as well as an average score based on the band scores.

PTE rates applicants on a worldwide scale of English from 10 to 90, with colleges preferring a minimum PTE score of 55 to 60. PTE applicants, like IELTS candidates, receive a full section-by-section analysis.

Comparison between the IELTS and PTE Scores

Here's the breakdown of major differences between the IELTS and PTE scores

Feature	IELTS	PTE
Score- range	0-9	10-90
Overall score	Average of overall modules	A Single score based on the weighted average
Score increments	0.5 bands	1 point
Standard Error Measurement (SEM)	0.23 band	2.3 points
Individual module scores	Yes	Yes

IELTS vs PTE: Cost of Application

The application fees for the IELTS and PTE are not significantly different. The IELTS price is 16,250 INR, while the PTE fee is 15,900 INR. IELTS vs. PTE acceptance rate: Because of its early launch in 1989, the IELTS has a higher acceptance rate than the PTE. Over 11,000 institutions in 140 countries recognize IELTS results. PTE has gained popularity since its inception in 2009. Currently, over 3,000 universities throughout the world recognize PTE as proof of language competency.

IELTS vs PTE: Retakes and Score Validity

Below is the information related with retakes and score validity of both IELTS and PTE exams.

Official Limit	There is no official limit for both examinations. The candidates can retake IELTS and PTE as many times as they want.
One Skill Retake	This option allows you to retake any one module within 60 days of your original full test of IELTS on a computer. This option can be availed of for one module once per full test.

IELTS and PTE scores remain valid for two years after taking the examination.

Things to remember while preparing for IELTS and PTE

Below are the things that one has to keep in mind before preparing for an IELTS and PTE exam.

• Candidates should take at least one mock test and compare their PTE scores to IELTS scores before choosing the best fit.

• Acceptance of test scores by the targeted university or country is crucial, as it plays a role in the student visa process.

• There are academic differences between IELTS and PTE, including comfort with the examination type, ability to solve problems, writing comfort, and speaking accent.

• PTE is preferred for those with quick problem-solving, analytical writing, and thick accents.

Conclusion

To sum it all up, there is no absolute “easier” test between IELTS and PTE. In any case, keep in mind that each examination requires students to prepare to take on the pattern and structure provided for each, which necessitates extensive practice over time, even if the mock test score is rather high.

Ultimately, it all comes down to what you’re looking for, your personal preference, and what certification your desired university accepts. Applicants can prepare themselves for the respective tests; they can consider the tutors and test prep forums out there and plan their journeys abroad. For further information and assistance with IELTS and PTE applications and tests, connect with the experts at Canamprep.

FAQ

How many questions do PTE and IELTS writing tasks have?

The IELTS writing component has two assignments, whereas the PTE writing section contains 2 to 4 questions.

How many attempts have you had at the IELTS and PTE?

There is no maximum number of tries for the IELTS and PTE tests. A candidate can retake the PTE exam within 5 days. However, a candidate will have to pay the exam fee again for each try.

PTE versus IELTS: which is easier?

Neither of the two tests is considered simple or challenging. However, given the difference in pattern and structure, some people may find one easier to accept than the other. Also, IELTS has a set number of questions, but PTE uses an adaptive technique.

Which is the most difficult topic in PTE?

To succeed on your first attempt, properly study each section of the test to display your English abilities to the best of your ability. The PTE reading component of the exam is regarded as the most difficult of the three.

Is 65 in PTE equivalent to 7 in IELTS?

PTE 65 is equivalent to IELTS 7.0. However, PTE 65 requires less study time than IELTS 7.0.

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PTE vs IELTS : Know the Difference and Which is Easier?

Table of Contents

IELTS vs PTE: An overview

IELTS vs PTE: Exam Pattern

IELTS vs PTE: Scoring

Comparison between the IELTS and PTE Scores

IELTS vs PTE: Cost of Application

IELTS vs PTE: Retakes and Score Validity

Things to remember while preparing for IELTS and PTE

Conclusion

FAQ

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