PTE vs IELTS: 7 Key Differences You Need to Know

In today’s globalized world, English proficiency is a crucial skill for students and professionals seeking to study or work abroad. Among the various English language tests available, the Pearson Test of English (PTE) and the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) are two of the most widely recognized and accepted.

Both tests assess the language abilities of non-native speakers, but they differ in format, scoring, and suitability for different purposes. This detailed guide will explore the key differences between PTE and IELTS, helping you make an informed decision on which test aligns best with your academic or professional goals.

Overview of PTE and IELTS

Here’s an overview comparing PTE and IELTS: PTE (Pearson Test of English):

• Computer-based test
• Consists of 3 main sections: Speaking & Writing (combined), Reading, and Listening
• Uses AI scoring for most sections
• Results typically available within 5 business days
• Scores on a scale of 10-90
• Speaking test done via computer microphone
• Test duration: About 3 hours
• Accepted by many universities and for immigration to countries like Australia and New Zealand

IELTS (International English Language Testing System):

• Available in paper-based and computer-delivered formats
• 4 separate sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking
• Uses human examiners for scoring, especially for Speaking and Writing
• Results typically available in 13 days for paper test, 3-5 days for computer test
• Scores on a band scale of 0-9
• Speaking test conducted face-to-face with an examiner
• Test duration: About 2 hours 45 minutes
• Widely accepted globally for university admissions and immigration purposes

Key differences:

• PTE uses AI scoring while IELTS relies more on human examiners
• PTE combines Speaking & Writing, while IELTS tests them separately
• PTE is fully computer-based, IELTS offers both paper and computer options
• PTE results are generally available faster
• IELTS is more widely accepted globally, though PTE acceptance is growing
• The speaking test format differs significantly between the two

Both tests assess English language proficiency across listening, reading, writing and speaking skills, but use different formats and scoring systems to do so. The choice between them often depends on the specific requirements of institutions or immigration authorities.

Test Format and Structure Comparison

Aspect	PTE	IELTS
Test Type	Fully computer-based	Paper-based or computer-delivered options
Total Duration	Approximately 3 hours	2 hours 45 minutes
Sections	3 main parts: Speaking & Writing (combined), Reading, Listening	4 separate sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking
Speaking Test	Integrated with Writing section, conducted via computer microphone	Face-to-face interview with an examiner
Writing Tasks	Integrated with Speaking section, typed on computer	Handwritten or typed (depending on test version)
Reading Format	Multiple choice, fill in the blanks, reorder paragraphs, etc.	Multiple choice, short answer, matching, etc.
Listening Format	Multiple choice, fill in the blanks, summarize spoken text, etc.	Multiple choice, form completion, short answer, etc.

Key Differences:

• Test Delivery: PTE is fully computer-based, while IELTS offers both paper-based and computer-delivered options.
• Speaking Test: In PTE, speaking tasks are integrated with writing and conducted via computer, whereas IELTS features a face-to-face interview.
• Section Integration: PTE combines Speaking & Writing into one section, while IELTS keeps all four skills as separate sections.
• Task Types: PTE includes more varied question types, especially in the integrated Speaking & Writing section. IELTS follows a more traditional format with distinct task types for each skill.
• Duration: PTE is slightly longer overall, with about 3 hours total testing time compared to IELTS’ 2 hours 45 minutes.
• Scoring System: PTE uses AI scoring for most sections, while IELTS relies more heavily on human examiners, especially for Speaking and Writing.

Understanding these structural differences can help test-takers choose the format that best suits their strengths and preparation style.

• Uses both correct/incorrect scoring and partial credit scoring
• Four communicative skills scored: Speaking, Writing, Reading, Listening
• Scores are computer-generated using AI

Key features:

• Overall score is not an average of section scores
• Uses partial credit scoring for more complex tasks
• Provides detailed feedback on performance in each skill area
• Results typically available within 5 business days

IELTS Scoring System:

• Overall band score range: 0-9 (including half bands)
• Four sections scored: Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking
• Uses a 9-band scale for each section and overall score
• Listening and Reading use raw score conversion to band scores
• Writing and Speaking assessed by human examiners using detailed criteria

Key features:

• Overall band score is the average of the four section scores, rounded to nearest 0.5 band
• Listening and Reading scores based on number of correct answers out of 40
• Writing and Speaking assessed on specific criteria like task achievement, coherence, vocabulary, and grammar
• Results typically available in 13 days for paper test, 3-5 days for computer test

Major differences:

• PTE uses a 10-90 point scale vs IELTS 0-9 band scale
• PTE is fully computer-scored while IELTS uses human examiners for Writing and Speaking
• PTE provides more granular scoring (10-90) compared to IELTS (0-9 with half bands)
• PTE results are generally available faster than IELTS paper-based test results

Both tests assess English language proficiency across listening, reading, writing and speaking skills, but use different scoring methodologies to do so.

Speaking Section: Key Differences

Here are the key differences between the PTE and IELTS speaking sections:

Aspect	PTE	IELTS
Test Format	Computer-based, integrated with writing section	Face-to-face interview with a human examiner
Duration	54-67 minutes (combined with writing)	11-14 minutes
Task Types	Read aloud, repeat sentence, describe image, re-tell lecture, answer short questions	Introduction/interview, long turn (cue card), discussion
Scoring	AI-based scoring on a scale of 10-90	Human examiner scoring on a band scale of 0-9
Speaking Style	Responses given to a computer microphone	Direct conversation with an examiner
Flexibility	Can revisit and adjust answers within the time limit	No option to revise responses once given
Content Focus	More emphasis on pronunciation and fluency	Greater focus on content and ability to express ideas
Preparation Approach	Practice with computer-based systems and recordings	Practice conversational skills and impromptu speaking
Stress Factor	May be less stressful for those uncomfortable with face-to-face interactions	May be more natural for those who prefer human interaction
Time Management	Strict time limits for each task, managed by the computer	More flexible timing, managed by the examiner

This table highlights the key differences between the PTE and IELTS speaking sections, covering aspects such as format, duration, task types, scoring, and other important factors. Understanding these differences can help test-takers choose the exam that best suits their strengths and preparation style.

1. Test Format:

• PTE: Computer-based, integrated with writing section
• IELTS: Face-to-face interview with a human examiner

2. Duration:

• PTE: 54-67 minutes (combined with writing)
• IELTS: 11-14 minutes

3. Task Types:

• PTE: Read aloud, repeat sentence, describe image, re-tell lecture, answer short questions
• IELTS: Introduction/interview, long turn (cue card), discussion

4. Scoring:

• PTE: AI-based scoring on a scale of 10-90
• IELTS: Human examiner scoring on a band scale of 0-9

5. Speaking Style:

• PTE: Responses given to a computer microphone
• IELTS: Direct conversation with an examiner

6. Flexibility:

• PTE: Can revisit and adjust answers within the time limit
• IELTS: No option to revise responses once given

7. Content Focus:

• PTE: More emphasis on pronunciation and fluency
• IELTS: Greater focus on content and ability to express ideas

8. Preparation Approach:

• PTE: Practice with computer-based systems and recordings
• IELTS: Practice conversational skills and impromptu speaking

9. Stress Factor:

• PTE: May be less stressful for those uncomfortable with face-to-face interactions
• IELTS: May be more natural for those who prefer human interaction

10. Time Management:

• PTE: Strict time limits for each task, managed by the computer
• IELTS: More flexible timing, managed by the examiner

Understanding these differences can help test-takers choose the format that best suits their strengths and preparation style, ultimately leading to better performance in the speaking section of their chosen English proficiency test.

Writing Section: PTE vs IELTS Approach

Aspect	PTE	IELTS
Format	Computer-based, integrated with Speaking section	Paper-based or computer-delivered options
Total Duration	54-67 minutes (combined with Speaking)	60 minutes
Task Types	Summarize Written Text, Write Essay	Task 1 (data description), Task 2 (essay)
Number of Tasks	2-3 tasks in total	2 tasks
Word Count	Summarize: 5-75 words Essay: 200-300 words	Task 1: 150+ words Task 2: 250+ words
Time per Task	Summarize: 10 minutes Essay: 20 minutes	Task 1: 20 minutes Task 2: 40 minutes
Scoring	AI-based scoring on a scale of 10-90	Human examiner scoring on a band scale of 0-9
Focus	Emphasis on summarizing skills and essay writing	Focus on data interpretation and argumentative writing

Key Differences in Approach:

1. Integration: PTE combines Writing with Speaking, while IELTS keeps Writing as a separate section.
2. Task Variety: PTE includes summarizing tasks, which are not present in IELTS.
3. Time Management: PTE requires quicker responses due to the integrated format, while IELTS allows more dedicated time for each writing task.
4. Scoring Method: PTE uses AI for scoring, potentially offering more consistency, while IELTS relies on human examiners.
5. Skill Focus: PTE emphasizes concise writing and quick thinking, especially in the summarizing task. IELTS focuses more on detailed description and argumentation.
6. Preparation Strategy: For PTE, practice should include rapid information processing and concise writing. For IELTS, focus on structured essay writing and data interpretation skills.

Understanding these differences can help test-takers choose the exam that best suits their writing style and strengths, as well as tailor their preparation strategies accordingly.

Reading and Listening: Similarities and Differences

Here’s a comparison of the Reading and Listening sections in PTE and IELTS:

Aspect	PTE	IELTS
Reading Duration	32-41 minutes	60 minutes
Listening Duration	30-40 minutes	30 minutes (+ 10 minutes transfer time)
Reading Questions	15-20 questions	40 questions
Listening Questions	17-25 questions	40 questions
Reading Format	Computer-based	Paper-based or computer-delivered
Listening Format	Computer-based	Paper-based or computer-delivered
Reading Question Types	Multiple choice, re-order paragraphs, fill in the blanks	Multiple choice, short answer, matching, sentence completion
Listening Question Types	Multiple choice, fill in the blanks, summarize spoken text	Multiple choice, matching, form/note/table/flow-chart/summary completion, short answer

Key Similarities:

1. Both tests assess reading comprehension and listening skills.
2. Both include a variety of question types to evaluate different aspects of language proficiency.
3. Both require candidates to manage time effectively to complete all questions.

Key Differences:

1. Time allocation: IELTS allows more time for the Reading section, while PTE has a more balanced time distribution between Reading and Listening.
2. Number of questions: IELTS has a fixed number of 40 questions for both Reading and Listening, while PTE has a variable number of questions.
3. Question types: While there is some overlap, PTE includes unique question types like re-order paragraphs and summarize spoken text, which are not present in IELTS.
4. Scoring method: PTE uses AI-based scoring for both sections, while IELTS uses human examiners for some parts of the assessment.
5. Integration of skills: PTE often integrates multiple skills within a single task (e.g., listening and writing in summarize spoken text), while IELTS tends to keep skills more separate.
6. Adaptability: The computer-based format of PTE allows for more interactive question types, especially in the Listening section.

Understanding these similarities and differences can help test-takers choose the exam that best suits their strengths and prepare more effectively for their chosen test format.

Test Duration and Time Management

Here’s a comparison of test duration and time management aspects for PTE and IELTS:

Test Type	Total Duration	Speaking & Writing Section	Reading Section	Listening Section	Speaking Section Duration
PTE	Approximately 3 hours	54-67 minutes	29-30 minutes	30-43 minutes	Included in Speaking & Writing
IELTS	2 hours 45 minutes	60 minutes	60 minutes	30 minutes	11-14 minutes (separate)

Key observations from this table:

1. PTE has a slightly longer overall duration compared to IELTS.
2. PTE combines Speaking and Writing into one section, while IELTS separates them.
3. IELTS allocates more time for the Reading section compared to PTE.
4. The Listening section duration is similar in both tests, though PTE allows for some variation.
5. IELTS has a separate Speaking test, while in PTE it’s integrated with the Writing section.

This table highlights the structural differences in time allocation between PTE and IELTS, which can be crucial for test-takers in choosing the format that best suits their strengths and preparation style.

PTE:

• Total test time: Approximately 3 hours
• Speaking & Writing: 54-67 minutes
• Reading: 29-30 minutes
• Listening: 30-43 minutes

IELTS:

• Total test time: 2 hours 45 minutes
• Listening: 30 minutes
• Reading: 60 minutes
• Writing: 60 minutes
• Speaking: 11-14 minutes (conducted separately)

Time Management Tips

PTE:

• Familiarize yourself with the computer-based format
• Practice time management for integrated tasks
• Allocate time wisely in the Speaking & Writing section
• Use the timer displayed on screen to pace yourself
• Move on quickly from difficult questions to maximize points

IELTS:

• Understand time allocation for each section
• Practice with timed mock tests
• Read instructions carefully but quickly
• Skim and scan reading passages
• Manage time strictly in Writing tasks
• Speak concisely in the Speaking test

Key Differences:

• PTE is fully computer-based with stricter time limits per task
• IELTS allows more flexibility in time management within sections
• PTE integrates skills more, requiring efficient multitasking
• IELTS Speaking is a separate interview, allowing focused preparation

Both tests require effective time management, but PTE demands quicker responses and transitions between tasks. IELTS allows more time for in-depth responses, especially in Writing and Speaking sections.

Availability and Test Centers

PTE:

• PTE testing is available in over 400 test centers across 117 countries worldwide.
• In India specifically, there are 35 PTE centers in major cities.
• PTE offers flexible scheduling, with test dates available throughout the year. Bookings can be made up to 24 hours before the test date, depending on availability.
• PTE also offers an “at home” testing option that can be scheduled up to 24 hours in advance.
• Common time slots for PTE tests are 8 AM, 10:15 AM, 12:30 PM, 1:15 PM, 2:45 PM, 3:30 PM, 5 PM and 7:15 PM.

IELTS:

• IELTS has over 4,000 test locations across 140 countries globally.
• In India, IELTS has over 75 test centers across different cities.
• IELTS offers both paper-based and computer-delivered test options.
• IELTS on Computer is available 3 times a day, 7 days a week.
• IELTS on paper is available on 4 fixed dates per month.

Key differences:

• IELTS has more test locations globally compared to PTE (4,000+ vs 400+).
• PTE offers more flexible scheduling with year-round availability, while IELTS has some fixed dates for paper-based tests.
• PTE provides an at-home testing option, which IELTS does not offer.
• Both exams have good coverage across major cities in India, with IELTS having slightly more test centers in the country.

Overall, both exams provide widespread availability, but PTE offers more flexibility in scheduling while IELTS has a larger global test center network. The choice between them may depend on specific location needs and preferred test dates.

Acceptance by Universities and Countries

Here are the key points about acceptance of PTE by universities and countries:

• PTE is currently accepted in approximately 74 countries worldwide for study, work, and immigration purposes.
• Major English-speaking countries that accept PTE include:
• United States
• United Kingdom
• Australia
• Canada
• New Zealand
• In the United States, over 1200 universities and colleges accept PTE scores, including top institutions like Harvard, Yale, Stanford, MIT, etc.
• In the UK, around 99% of universities accept PTE, including Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial College London, etc.
• Australia and New Zealand fully accept PTE for student visas and university admissions.
• Canada accepts PTE for study permits and many universities accept it, though IELTS is still more widely accepted there.
• Other countries accepting PTE include Germany, France, China, Singapore, etc. The acceptance is growing globally.
• Minimum required PTE scores vary by university and program, typically ranging from 50-65 for undergraduate and 58-70 for graduate programs.
• Students should always check the specific PTE score requirements with individual universities they are applying to.
• PTE is gaining popularity due to its computer-based format, quick results, and growing acceptance. However, IELTS and TOEFL are still more widely accepted globally.

The key is to research the specific requirements for your target universities and countries, as acceptance can vary. But overall, PTE is becoming increasingly recognized internationally as a valid English proficiency test.

Costs and Fee Structures

Here’s a table comparing the costs and fee structures for PTE and IELTS exams in India:

Fee Type	PTE	IELTS
Standard Academic Test	INR 17,000	INR 17,000
Computer-delivered Test	INR 17,000 (PTE Academic Online)	INR 17,000
UKVI Version	INR 17,000	INR 17,250
Life Skills Test	INR 14,435 (PTE Home A1/A2/B1)	INR 16,050 (IELTS Life Skills A1 and B1)
Late Registration Fee	INR 850 (within 48 hours of test)	Not applicable
Rescheduling Fee	Free (>14 days before test) 50% of test fee (8-14 days before) Full test fee (<7 days before)	INR 3,300 (at least 5 weeks before test)
Cancellation Fee	50% refund (>14 days before test) No refund (<14 days before test)	INR 4,250 admin charge Partial refund of INR 12,750 (>9 days before) No refund (<9 days before)
Rechecking Fee	Not mentioned	INR 11,625

Key observations from this table:

Here’s a comparison of the costs and fee structures for PTE and IELTS exams in India:

PTE Exam Fees

• Standard PTE Academic exam fee: INR 17,000 (including 18% GST)
• PTE Academic Online fee: INR 17,000
• PTE Academic UKVI: INR 17,000
• PTE Home A1/A2/B1: INR 14,435

Additional costs:

• Late registration fee: INR 850 (if booked within 48 hours of test date)
• Rescheduling fee:
• Free if more than 14 days before test
• 50% of test fee if 8-14 days before test
• Full test fee if less than 7 days before test
• Cancellation fee:
• 50% refund if canceled more than 14 days before test
• No refund if canceled within 14 days of test date

IELTS Exam Fees

• Standard IELTS Academic/General Training fee: INR 17,000
• Computer-delivered IELTS: INR 17,000
• IELTS for UKVI: INR 17,250
• IELTS Life Skills (A1 and B1): INR 16,050

Additional costs:

• Rescheduling fee: INR 3,300 (if done at least 5 weeks before test date)
• Cancellation fee:
• INR 4,250 administrative charge
• Partial refund of INR 12,750 if canceled 9+ days before test
• No refund if canceled less than 9 days before test
• Rechecking fee: INR 11,625

Key differences:

1. The base fees for PTE and IELTS are the same (INR 17,000) for the standard Academic tests.
2. PTE offers more flexible rescheduling options with potential for free rescheduling.
3. IELTS has stricter cancellation policies with higher administrative charges.
4. PTE’s late registration fee is lower than IELTS’s administrative charges for changes.
5. IELTS offers a rechecking option for a fee, which is not mentioned for PTE.

Both exams have similar base costs in India, but PTE appears to offer more flexibility in terms of rescheduling and cancellation policies. The choice between the two may depend on individual preferences, test availability, and specific requirements of the institutions accepting the scores.

Pros and Cons of Each Test

Here’s a comparison of the pros and cons of IELTS and PTE exams:

IELTS Pros:

• Widely accepted globally by universities, employers, and immigration authorities
• Offers both paper-based and computer-delivered options
• Speaking test conducted face-to-face with a human examiner
• More preparation materials and resources available
• Scores are valid for 2 years
• Human evaluation for Speaking and Writing sections

IELTS Cons:

• Results typically take 13 days for paper test, 3-5 days for computer test
• Can be more expensive in some locations
• Speaking test may cause anxiety for some test-takers
• Limited test dates in some areas

PTE Pros:

• Fast results (typically within 5 business days)
• Fully computer-based test
• More frequent test dates and flexible scheduling
• AI scoring system provides consistent evaluation
• Some find the integrated tasks more reflective of real-world language use

PTE Cons:

• Less widely accepted than IELTS, especially for immigration purposes
• Only one test center available in some countries (e.g. Cambodia)
• AI scoring may not capture nuances in speaking/writing
• Speaking test conducted in a room with other test-takers, which can be distracting
• Fewer preparation materials available compared to IELTS

Key Differences:

• IELTS uses human examiners for Speaking and Writing, while PTE is fully AI-scored
• IELTS offers both paper and computer options, PTE is only computer-based
• IELTS is more widely accepted globally
• PTE generally provides faster results
• IELTS Speaking is face-to-face, PTE Speaking is done via computer

The choice between IELTS and PTE often depends on the specific requirements of the institutions or countries you’re applying to, as well as your personal preferences and strengths as a test-taker.

Which Test Should You Choose?

Choosing between PTE and IELTS depends on several factors:

1. Acceptance: Check which test is accepted by your target universities, employers, or immigration authorities. IELTS is more widely accepted globally, but PTE’s acceptance is growing.
2. Test Format Preference:

• If you prefer face-to-face interaction, IELTS might be better.
• If you’re comfortable with computer-based tests, PTE could be advantageous.

1. Time Constraints:

• PTE typically offers faster results (within 5 business days).
• IELTS results take longer, especially for paper-based tests.

1. Scoring System:

• PTE uses AI scoring, which some find more objective.
• IELTS involves human examiners for Speaking and Writing, which may capture nuances better.

1. Test Availability: PTE often offers more flexible scheduling, while IELTS has fixed dates in many locations.
2. Personal Strengths:

• If you excel at integrated tasks, PTE might suit you better.
• If you prefer clear separation of skills, IELTS could be more appropriate.

1. Preparation Resources: IELTS generally has more preparation materials available.
2. Test Center Environment: Consider whether you prefer the IELTS one-on-one speaking test or PTE’s computer-based format.

Conclusion:

Both PTE and IELTS are reputable English proficiency tests with their own strengths and challenges. Your choice should ultimately depend on your specific needs, preferences, and the requirements of your target institutions or countries.

Key takeaways:

• IELTS is more widely accepted but PTE is gaining recognition.
• PTE offers faster results and more flexible scheduling.
• IELTS provides a more traditional test format with human interaction.
• Consider your comfort with technology, as PTE is fully computer-based.

Remember, the best test for you is the one that allows you to showcase your English skills most effectively while meeting your application requirements. Whichever test you choose, thorough preparation is key to achieving your desired score.

Before making your final decision, research the specific requirements for your applications, consider taking practice tests for both exams, and reflect on which format aligns best with your strengths and preferences. With the right preparation and approach, you can succeed in either PTE or IELTS and take a significant step towards your academic or professional goals.