PTE vs. IELTS | Which is Better for You?

If you’re planning to move to Australia, one of the first steps is proving your English language skills. To demonstrate this, you may need to take an English proficiency test.

Two of the most popular tests are the PTE (Pearson Test of English) and the IELTS (International English Language Testing System).

But which one is better for you?
Or which test is easier?
What’s the difference between PTE and IELTS?
Which one is accepted for Australian immigration?
And how can you choose the right test?

This blog will answer all these questions and more. By the end, you’ll have a clear idea of whether PTE or IELTS is the better choice for your Australian immigration journey.

What are PTE and IELTS?

PTE (Pearson Test of English)

It is a computer-based test that evaluates your reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills in an integrated manner.

IELTS (International English Language Testing System)

As compared to PTE, IELTS is available in both paper-based and computer-based formats. It also tests reading, writing, listening, and speaking under separate sections.

Quick Question: Do you prefer computer-based tests or pen-and-paper tests? Keep this in mind while choosing between PTE and IELTS.

PTE vs. IELTS – Key Differences

The table below shows the key differences between PTE and IELTS exams. Have a look.

Feature	PTE	IELTS
Test Format	Fully computer-based	Paper-based or computer-based
Duration	3 hours	2 hours, 45 minutes
Results Availability	Available in 2-3 days	Available in 13 days (paper) or 3-5 days (computer)
Test Sections	Speaking, Writing, Reading, and listening	Speaking, Writing, Reading, and listening
Speaking Section	Recorded on a computer	Face-to-face with an examiner
Scoring	Scored from 10-90	Scored from 0-9
Retakes	Retake any component of the test.	Retake the entire test again if you fail any component.

Here is a detailed overview of the differences between PTE and IELTS.

1. Test Format

IELTS Test Format

You can choose between paper-based or computer-based formats. Moreover, the speaking test is conducted face-to-face with a certified examiner. This section is usually scheduled on a different day from the other sections.

IELTS offers two versions of the test:

IELTS Academic: For students applying to universities.
IELTS General: For work or migration purposes.

PTE Test Format

PTE Academic is the only version available, designed for both study and migration purposes. It is fully computer-based. All sections, including speaking, are completed on a computer.

For the speaking test, you speak into a microphone, and your responses are recorded for evaluation. There’s no human interaction during this section.

So, IELTS offers more flexibility with paper-based and computer-based options.

2. Test Sections

Both tests assess your English skills in four areas: Speaking, Writing, Reading, and listening. However, the way these sections are structured and evaluated differs significantly.

IELTS Structure

Speaking: A one-on-one interview with an examiner. You’ll answer questions about familiar topics, speak at length on a given topic, and discuss abstract ideas.

Writing: In this section you have to complete two tasks.

Task 1: Describe a graph, chart, or diagram (Academic) or write a letter (General).
Task 2: Write an essay on a given topic.

Reading: Three long passages with questions. The texts are academic or general, depending on the test type.

Listening: Four sections with 40 questions. You’ll listen to recordings and answer questions.

PTE Structure

Speaking: Includes tasks like reading aloud, repeating sentences, describing images, and answering short questions. All responses are recorded.

Writing: You have to complete two tasks:

Summarize a written text.
Write an essay.

Reading: Multiple-choice questions, reorder paragraphs, and fill-in-the-blank exercises.

Listening: Includes summarizing spoken text, multiple-choice questions, and filling in blanks while listening to audio.

Section	IELTS Acdemic	PTE Academic
Speaking	Face-to-face interview with an examiner.	Computer-based; responses recorded via microphone.
	3 parts: Introduction, Cue Card, Discussion.	Tasks include Read Aloud, Repeat Sentence, Describe Image, Re-tell Lecture, etc.
	Duration: 11-14 minutes.	Duration: 30-35 minutes.
Writing	Task 1: Summarise a chart/graph in 150 words.	Task 1: Summarise a written text in one sentence (up to 75 words).
	Task 2: Write an essay (250 words).	Task 2: Write an argumentative or persuasive essay (200-300 words).
	Duration: 60 minutes.	Integrated with Speaking (54-67 minutes total).
Reading	3 sections with passages and questions.	Multiple-choice, fill-in-the-blanks, and re-order paragraphs.
	Duration: 60 minutes.	Duration: 32-41 minutes.
Listening	Listen to recordings and answer questions (4 sections).	Tasks include summarising Spoken Text, Fill in the Blanks, Highlight Correct Summary, etc.
	Duration: 30 minutes + 10 minutes to transfer answers.	Duration: 45-57 minutes.

3. Scoring System

IELTS Scoring System

Each section (Speaking, Writing, Reading, Listening) is scored on a scale of 0 to 9. Your overall score is the average of these four scores, rounded to the nearest 0.5.

PTE Scoring System

Each section is scored from 10 to 90, in increments of 1. Your overall score is based on your performance across all sections.

Below is a conversion table that shows the relationship between PTE scores and IELTS band scores.

PTE Score	IELTS Score	Proficiency Level
36 – 43	5.0	Modest User
43 – 50	5.5	Modest User
50 – 58	6.0	Competent User
58 – 65	6.5	Competent User
65 – 73	7.0	Good User
73 – 79	7.5	Good User
79 – 83	8.0	Very Good User
83 – 86	8.5	Very Good User
86 – 90	9.0	Expert

4. Test Duration

Below is a clear comparison of the total test duration and the time allocated for each section in both tests.

IELTS	Total Duration	Listening	Reading	Writing	Speaking
IELTS	2 hr 45 minutes	30 minutes	60 minutes	60 minutes	11-14 minutes (conducted separately)
PTE	3 hours	45-57 minutes	32-41 minutes	77-93 minutes (combined with Speaking)	Included in Writing section

So, PTE is slightly longer, but you can complete all the sections in one sitting. However, IELTS splits the speaking test, which can be more convenient for you depending on your circumstances.

5. Test Environment

IELTS Test Environment

The speaking section is conducted in a quiet room with an examiner. Moreover, if you choose the paper-based test, you’ll write your answers by hand.

PTE Test Environment

All sections, including speaking, are completed on a computer. This can feel more consistent but may be challenging if you’re not familiar with technology.

6. Acceptance for Australian Immigration

Both tests are accepted for Australian immigration purposes, including:

Skilled Migration
Student Visas
Work Visas
Family Visas

However, some visa types or institutions may have a preference. Therefore, always check the specific requirements for your visa or university.

7. Scoring Comparison for Australian Immigration

Australia uses a points-based system for immigration. Your English test score can add valuable points to your application. Here’s a comparison of both tests for Australian immigration :

English Level	PTE Scores	IELTS Scores	Australian Immigration Scores
Superior	79 – 90	8 – 9	20 points
Proficient	65 – 78	7 – 7.5	10 points
Competent	50 – 64	6 – 6.5	0 points (minimum requirement)

If you want maximum points, check which test aligns better with your strengths.

8. IELTS Vs. PTE: Cost and Availability

Both tests are widely available, but costs and locations may vary. Here is a simple breakdown of both:

PTE costs around AUD 375 and is available in many test centres worldwide.
IELTS costs around AUD 395 (paper-based) or AUD 395 (paper-based) or AUD 410 (computer-based). It’s also widely available.

Which Test is Easier: PTE vs IELTS?

Neither exam can be labelled as easy or difficult. The level of difficulty depends on the individual’s strengths and preferences.

The structure and format of both tests are different. It means that one test may feel more comfortable to some individuals than the other. Moreover, it depends on the following factors:

Personal preferences.
Format your chosen university accepts.
Visas you are applying for.

In addition to this, IELTS features a fixed number of questions. On the other hand, PTE uses an adaptive approach based on the candidate’s performance.

Final Thoughts

Both PTE and IELTS are great options for proving your English skills for Australian immigration. The best choice depends on:

Your comfort level with technology,
Your test-taking preferences,
and your budget.

By now you have learned the basic differences between these two and examined which is best for you. Now, what’s next? Take your time to research, practice, and choose the test that aligns with your strengths.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is PTE easier than IELTS?

Neither test is definitively easier, as it depends on individual strengths and preferences. Some people find PTE easier due to its integrated tasks and computer-based format, while others prefer the structured approach of IELTS.

What is IELTS 7 equal to PTE?

An IELTS score of 7 is generally equivalent to a PTE score of approximately 65-72, according to the score correlation guidelines.

Is PTE accepted in Australia?

Yes, PTE is accepted in Australia for various purposes, including immigration and university admissions. However, IELTS is more widely recognised by institutions and immigration authorities.

What is the fee for the PTE exam in Pakistan?

The fee for the PTE exam in Pakistan usually ranges from PKR 62,000 to PKR 74,000. But it’s best to check with local test centres for the most accurate pricing.

How long is PTE valid for?

PTE is valid for two years from the date of the exam. After this period, the scores expire and cannot be used for applications to universities or immigration purposes.

Samavia Shahid

I, Samavia Shahid, am a researcher and content writer at The Migration. I create easy-to-understand and informative content for people who want to move to Australia. My goal is to make the migration process simpler and less stressful for everyone.