The Ultimate Test Comparison
Choosing between IELTS and PTE often comes down to your personal strengths. Are you comfortable with computers? Do you prefer human interaction for speaking tests?
IELTS is highly traditional. The speaking test is conducted face-to-face with a human examiner. It assesses deep comprehension and natural use of language.
PTE Academic is entirely computer-based, including the speaking section which is graded by AI. It heavily favors test-takers who type quickly, speak with steady rhythm, and memorize structural templates.
Explore IELTS Coaching Explore PTE CoachingKey Format Differences
Format: IELTS has Paper & Computer options; PTE is strictly Computer.
Speaking: IELTS involves a 15-min human interview; PTE uses a headset and microphone facing a screen.
Writing: IELTS requires long-form essays and graph analysis; PTE relies on shorter summaries and templated essays.
Results Time: IELTS takes 3-13 days; PTE is often delivered within 2-48 hours.
Scoring Concordance Table (Approximate)
Wondering how a PTE score translates to IELTS bands? This table shows the generally accepted equivalence, which is vital when checking university or immigration requirements.
| IELTS Band Score | PTE Academic Score (Updated 2026) | English Proficiency Level |
|---|---|---|
| 8.5 - 9.0 | 83 - 90 | Expert / Very Good User |
| 8.0 | 79 - 82 | Very Good User (Aus PR Max Points) |
| 7.5 | 73 - 78 | Good User |
| 7.0 | 65 - 72 | Good User (Standard Med/Nursing Req) |
| 6.5 | 58 - 64 | Competent (Standard Masters Req) |
| 6.0 | 50 - 57 | Competent (Undergrad / Canada SDS) |
| 5.5 | 42 - 49 | Modest User |
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Visa Approved in 2025Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about this topic.
There is no objective 'easier' test. PTE is often considered easier by students who struggle with the subjective human grading in IELTS Writing and Speaking, as PTE's AI relies heavily on templates and fluency. IELTS is easier if you process information linearly and prefer interacting with a human.
Yes! Starting in late 2023, the IRCC officially began accepting PTE Core for permanent residency and PTE Academic for the Student Direct Stream (SDS) study permit program. You need a minimum global score of 60 for SDS.
Yes, PTE Academic is widely accepted and extremely popular for Australian PR. To claim the maximum 20 points for English proficiency in the subclass 189/190/491 visas, you need a PTE score of 79+ in each band (equivalent to IELTS 8.0).
Yes, if your base English is strong, 2 weeks is enough to understand the PTE test format, memorize strategies/templates, and practice on mock software. The PTE heavily rewards understanding the test mechanics and how the AI algorithm grades you.
Many students switch because they get permanently 'stuck' at a 6.5 in IELTS Writing despite multiple attempts. The subjective grading in IELTS makes it hard to hit a 7.0 or 8.0 in Writing. PTE's AI grading is easily satisfied with proper template usage and vocabulary, allowing students to pass those hurdles quickly.
The costs are essentially identical in most countries. In India, for example, both IELTS and PTE hover around ₹16,500 to ₹17,000 depending on tax and yearly adjustments.
