IELTS vs TOEFL vs PTE: Which is Better for Immigration?
Updated On
-
Copy link
Confused about IELTS vs TOEFL vs PTE for your immigration plans? While IELTS and PTE are widely accepted for immigration, TOEFL is the ideal choice if your primary focus is on higher studies. Scroll through to find which is better for you and your goals.
Limited-time offer : Access a free 10-Day IELTS study plan curated for you
Table of Contents
Want to begin your immigration journey, but can't comprehend which English test is better for you? This dilemma is quite understandable. Picking the correct English language test is the crucial first step toward building your life abroad.
While all three — IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE — are accepted by international universities, each has a different format, scoring method, and test experience. So, it's best to understand which suits your goals. Follow along as we compare IELTS vs TOEFL vs PTE, including test structure, scoring, which is easier, and more, to help you resolve the confusion about which is better for you.
Quick Overview of IELTS, TOEFL & PTE
IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE are international language tests that assess how well you can understand, speak, and write in English. They are an essential requirement if you want to migrate to an English-speaking country. Each test is a bit different from the other, follow the table below and find out what these tests are:
|
Test |
Full Form |
Purpose |
Popular Countries |
|
IELTS |
International English Language Testing System |
Study, work, migrate |
UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand |
|
TOEFL |
Test of English as a Foreign Language |
Primarily academic study |
USA, Canada, some parts of Europe |
|
PTE |
Pearson Test of English |
Study, work, migrate |
Australia, New Zealand, the UK, and some US universities |
IELTS vs TOEFL vs PTE: Key Differences
Finding out which English test is best suited for you now requires a strategic approach. Here are the key differences between IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE to help you make an informed decision.
|
Factors |
IELTS |
TOEFL |
PTE |
|
Test Type |
Paper-based or Computer-based |
Mostly Computer-based |
Fully Computer-based |
|
Cost |
Approx. INR 18,000 |
Around INR 16,900 |
INR 18,000 |
|
Speaking Test |
Face-to-face with an examiner |
Recorded responses |
Recorded responses |
|
Scoring Scale |
0-9 bands |
0-120 points |
10-90 points |
|
Duration |
2 hours 45 minutes |
Around 3 hours |
Around 2 hours |
|
Results |
3-5 days (computer) or 13 days (paper) |
6-10 days |
Within 2 days |
|
Accent Variety |
British, Australian, Canadian |
Mostly American |
Multiple accents |
|
Test Availability |
48+ times a year |
50+ times a year |
Frequent, flexible dates |
Also Read: PTE vs OET
IELTS vs TOEFL vs PTE: Test Structure
The format and skill assessment for these tests are similar; however, there are still certain minute differences in the tests that you should be aware of:
IELTS Structure
- Listening: 30 minutes
- Reading: 60 minutes
- Writing: 60 minutes
- Speaking: 11–14 minutes
Preferably for: Candidates comfortable with real human interaction during speaking.
TOEFL Structure
- Reading: 35 minutes
- Listening: 36 minutes
- Speaking: 16 minutes
- Writing: 29 minutes
Preferably for: Candidates comfortable with typing and computer-based academic tasks.
PTE Structure
- Speaking and Writing: 54-67 minutes
- Reading: 29-30 minutes
- Listening: 30-43 minutes
Preferably for: Those who want a quicker test with faster results.
IELTS vs TOEFL vs PTE: Which is Best for Immigration?
Here are some factors to consider when deciding which test is best for immigration:
Choose TOEFL if:
- You prefer integrated and academic tasks.
- You are focusing on institutions that mandate the TOEFL.
- You are comfortable with speaking responses.
- Your primary goal is to study abroad and immigration is not your immediate goal.
Choose IELTS if:
- You are comfortable with or want a speaking test with an examiner.
- You focus on a mix of paper and computer options.
- You focus on universities that accept IELTS, and you feel confident with face-to-face speaking.
- You are applying for PR or work visas, and your desired destination is Canada, Australia, the UK, or New Zealand.
- You want to take the most widely-accepted English test for immigration.
If you are targeting America, ensure you know the required IELTS band for USA to meet your goals.
Choose PTE if:
- You want your result on short notice.
- You prefer a fully computerised test.
- You are applying for Australia, New Zealand, or Canada PR.
- Consider PTE if you want to pursue your education in the USA. This test is increasingly recognised by US universities.
IELTS vs TOEFL vs PTE: Checklist to Make the Right Choice
To decide which English test is right for your immigration goal, make sure you tick the following pointers:
- Check programme pages for accepted tests (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE) and minimum scores; varies by department.
- IELTS for live speaking confidence, TOEFL for integrated academic tasks and typing, and PTE for speed and full computer format.
- PTE gives results in 48 hours (up to 5 days max in India); it is ideal for late apps. IELTS/TOEFL take days to 2 weeks; book early for a buffer.
Ready to Ace Your Test and Secure PR? Start Your Journey with GetGIS
The choice between IELTS vs TOEFL vs PTE depends largely on your professional goals. GetGIS offers expert IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE training, plus immigration support. Our comprehensive solutions ensure thorough preparation for either exam. Moreover, beyond language testing, we offer a range of services, including PR and job search assistance, providing a one-stop destination for all your immigration and language proficiency needs.
Also Read:
- Tags
- Study Abroad
Limited-time offer : Access a free 10-Day IELTS study plan curated for you
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is easier, IELTS or TOEFL or PTE?
Is 65 of PTE equal to 7 IELTS?
Is TOEFL hard for Indian students?
What is the hardest English proficiency exam?
Can I pass PTE on the first attempt?
