PTE vs IELTS: A Comprehensive Comparison

Overview
Overview of PTE and IELTS
Test Format & Structure
Scoring System
Test Preparation Tips
Conclusion

Overview

Are you planning to study overseas? English proficiency is a bridge you must cross for your dream to come true. It is evidence of your English level and ability to survive in an English-speaking country. A lot of people take IELTS (International English Language Testing System), TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language), or Pearson Test of English (PTE) to measure their English ability. Have a look at our detailed comparison of PTE vs IELTS to know what suits you best.

Overview of PTE and IELTS

IELTS vs PTE are both tests that measure English proficiency. PTE is an English language proficiency test conducted by Pearson PLC Group, which you can choose for education and employment purposes or family immigration and settlement purposes. IELTS is administered only by IDP in India and measures your ability to communicate as per four basic skills – Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing. The higher recognition of IELTS and the fact that it is accepted in more countries make it an obvious choice for you to take.

Test Format & Structure

Now that you know about PTE and IELTS, let’s check out both the test format and structure. Before deciding on the exam, it’s important to understand the nuances of its pattern, sections, and structure to achieve a higher score. IELTS vs PTE: Here's a comparison of its sections:

	PTE	IELTS
Listening	In a section that varies between 45 and 57 minutes, answering a series of questions based on audio and video clips.	Students need to answer 40 questions in 30 minutes across four recordings
Reading	In 32 - 40 minutes, complete objective exercises such as MCQs, filling up blanks, and sequencing paragraphs of texts	Students have to answer 40 questions in 30 minutes across 3 texts
Writing	These two sections are merged in the PTE throughout 77 - 93 minutes. Students must complete diverse tasks, such as introducing themselves, reading aloud, describing images, summarising texts, and writing essays.	There are two essays to be written in 60 minutes. The first is analyzing a visual graph/data, while the second is an argumentative task to discuss a point of view.
Speaking		This task of 15 minutes requires students to speak to the examiner about themselves, give an opinion about a topic, or finally discuss abstract concepts.

With this, it's easy to see the difference between IELTS and PTE. Next, let's compare how the scores are calculated.

Scoring System

Jumping on to our next topic IELTS vs PTE score comparison. IELTS is assessed on a scale of 0 to 9 with a 0.5 gap for each section and then averaged for the four sections where institutions accept minimum scores of 6.0 and 6.5. You will receive a band score for each part and an average score based on those band scores.

PTE assesses you on a range of 10 to 90 based on an English global scale, with colleges requiring a minimum score of 55 - 60. Like in the IELTS, you’ll receive a PTE score in a section-by-section breakdown. The table that follows compares PTE and IELTS scores.

PTE Academic	IELTS
30	4.5
36	5.0
42	5.5
50	6.0
58	6.5
65	7.0
73	7.5
79	8.0
83	8.5
86	9.0

Understanding the nuances of PTE scores vs IELTS scores isn’t enough; knowing the validity is also crucial. Both of them have a 2-year validity period. Let’s check some resources, strategies, and tips for test preparation.

Test Preparation Tips

You have seen test formats and sections, among others, but you should also know some tips and tricks for PTE vs IELTS to understand how you can score well in your English proficiency tests. Here are some general tips below:

Familiarise yourself with the exam format – Unveil the secrets of the format for both PTE and IELTS and unravel its intricate structures. Master the art of examination, for victory lies within comprehension.

Practice regularly with sample tests – Embark on a preparation quest, armed with mock battles. Harness the power of repetition, transforming uncertainty into mastery. Let the sample tests guide you.

Develop time management skills – Embrace the art of orchestration, harmonizing tasks with finesse. Be the maestro of your endeavors, conducting each second with purposeful intent. Dance with deadlines, transforming exam pressure into a rhythm that propels success.

Conclusion

In the grand battle of PTE vs IELTS, determining which is right for you ultimately depends on various factors. While both exams have unique features and sections, the concept of "rightness" becomes subjective regarding language proficiency assessments. Whether you sway towards PTE to IELTS, the key is to consider your personal choices, requirements, and skills. Other preferences combined with strengths and weaknesses should guide you toward the decision-making process.

Remember, the road to success in these exams is paved with practice, perseverance, and preparation. While choosing between PTE and IELTS, trust the process, seek guidance when needed, and let your determination shine through. We hope we have provided you with helpful insight into PTE vs IELTS. If you need further guidance, please contact Prepare IELTS (PI) expert counselors. Our team of education experts is dedicated to providing you with the best guidance in IELTS Exam Preparation.

You can get on a one-to-one free counseling session online via our platform. Contact us at info@prepareieltsexam.com or call us at +91 9773398388.