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IELTS vs PTE vs TOEFL - Which test is better for you? Check the Differences

IELTS vs PTE vs TOEFL: Which test is the best choice for you? If you're unsure about selecting the right English proficiency exam, this guide will help to understand each test format, fees, difficulty level, score validity, and more.
authorImageSouvik Podder25 Feb, 2025
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IELTS vs PTE vs TOEFL

IELTS vs PTE vs TOEFL - Which test is better for you: Candidates interested in pursuing educational degrees or working in English-speaking countries must prove their English proficiency. Many exams are conducted as English language proficiency tests such as IELTS , PTE, and TOEFL. IELTS is the most popular exam for global migration and education. TOEFL is a graded examination for candidates to enroll in English-speaking universities. Lastly, PTE is the Pearson Test of English which is a computer-based test to assess candidates’ English learning abilities. Candidates must choose one of these exams based on their goals and purpose of migrating to English-speaking countries.

What is IELTS Exam?

What is IELTS?

The full form of IELTS is the International English Language Testing System. There are two formats of the IELTS exam i.e., IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training. Candidates who wish to pursue their UG or PG degree in English-speaking countries must choose IELTS Academic. On the other hand, candidates who wish to migrate to English-speaking countries for work purposes must choose IELTS General Training.

What is PTE?

The full form of PTE is the Pearson Test of English. This exam is conducted in a computer-based mode for the candidates who wish to migrate to English-speaking countries. This exam is accepted in Australia, UK, and Europe for education purposes. PTE is also be used for immigration into Australia.

IELTS Band Score

What is TOEFL?

The full form of TOEFL is the Test of English as a Foreign Language. This exam is developed by an international non-profit organization namely Education Testing Service (ETS). TOEFL score is accepted by more than 9000 colleges and universities across 130 countries including Canada, USA, UK, Australia, etc.

PTE VS IELTS: which one is better for migration

IELTS vs PTE vs TOEFL: Main Differences

The purpose of these three tests is the same. The differences between these three tests are the length, difficulty level, cost, and test format.
  • Differences in Cost
The application costs for all three tests are nearly the same. Candidates can check the application fee for the tests below
Differences in Cost
Exam Cost
IELTS Academic INR 12,650/-
TOEFL TOEFL iBT:  INR 11,265/- TOEFL PBT: INR 12,577/-
PTE Academic Standard: INR 13,300/- Late Booking: INR 16,625/-

  • Difference in Length
IELTS, PTE, and TOEFL exams are conducted to test candidates’ ability to read, write, speak, and listen to the English language. Candidates can check the difference in the length of these three exams below.
Difference in Length
Parameters IELTS Academic PTE Academic TOEFL iBT
Mode Pen-and-paper Computer Computer
Duration 2 hours, 45 minutes 3 hours 3 hours, 10 minutes to 4 hours, 20 minutes
Range of Score 0-9 10-90 0-120
Validity 2 years 2 years 2 years
  • Differences in Test Format
The format of all three tests measures candidates’ English reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills in different formats. TOEFL is conducted in a typical American test format with two essays, six spoken responses, and multiple choice questions. The test format for IELTS exam is also similar to TOEFL exam. It includes two essays, one spoken interview, and multiple-choice questions. PTE follows a slightly different format. Candidates need to write an essay, and different types of questions that test grammar, listening, speaking, and overall comprehension.

IELTS Syllabus

  • Difference in the Level of Difficulty
All three tests have some different views in terms of difficulty level. IELTS exam has the option to write down the essay but the examiner will rate you in this exam. On the other hand TOEFL exam has multiple choice questions and is rated average in difficulty level. PTE exam is a computer-based exam and scores are rated by a computer program, so this exam is unbiased and can be considered easier. PTE also has no waiting time between sections. Candidates have to complete the whole test in one go.

IELTS Registration

  • Difference in Scorecard Availability
The duration of scorecard availability after the exam is different for all three exams. Candidates can check the duration below
Difference in Scorecard Availability
Exam Duration
IELTS Within 13 days
TOEFL Within 10 days
PTE Within 5-7 days
IELTS Exam Other Related Links
IELTS  Registration IELTS Full Form
IELTS Eligibility Criteria IELTS Exam Pattern
IELTS Syllabus IDP IELTS Test Centers
IDP IELTS Slot Booking IELTS Cut Off
IELTS Books and Study Guide IELTS Band Score

IELTS vs PTE vs TOEFL FAQs

Q1. Which is better PTE or TOEFL?

Ans. Most of the universities from Canada, USA, Australia, France, New Zealand, and Germany prefer TOEFL exam. PTE is also accepted by 6000+ universities, especially in New Zealand, Australia, and UK.

Q2. What are the disadvantages of PTE?

Ans. There are some disadvantages of PTE exam such as limited acceptance in comparison to IELTS and TOEFL exams and fixed test format.

Q3. What is the 3 seconds rule in PTE?

Ans. The ‘3 Seconds’ rule in PTE says that the candidates must start speaking within 3 seconds after hearing the prompt. By following this rule, the speech will be completely recorded.

Q4. Is PTE accepted in USA?

Ans. PTE is widely accepted in USA. USA has only 1200 PTE accepted universities available.
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