PTE vs IELTS — Complete Comparison
2 min read
The Two Most Popular English Tests
PTE Academic and IELTS Academic both test English proficiency for migration and study, but the formats are very different. Here's a head-to-head.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| PTE Academic | IELTS Academic | |
|---|---|---|
| Test format | 100% computer-based (one sitting) | Paper or computer; speaking is in-person with examiner |
| Duration | ~2 hours | ~2 hours 45 minutes (Speaking on a different day sometimes) |
| Scoring | 0–90 scale, AI-only | 0–9 band scale (0.5 increments), human + AI |
| Speaking format | Recorded into a microphone, AI scored | Face-to-face interview with a human examiner |
| Score release | 2 business days | 3–5 days (computer) or 13 days (paper) |
| Cost | $190–220 USD | $215–260 USD |
| Validity | 2 years (3 for AU PR) | 2 years |
| Number of question types | 20 | 11 |
Which is Easier?
Depends on your strengths:
- Comfortable with computers, prefer no human interaction: PTE is easier — predictable AI scoring, fast typing rewards.
- Strong in face-to-face conversation, weaker on screen: IELTS speaking may suit better.
- Bad at writing essays: PTE's Summarise Written Text + Essay is shorter total writing time than IELTS's 60-minute writing module.
- Better listener than reader: IELTS reading is harder; PTE listening is harder.
Score Conversion
| IELTS Band | PTE Equivalent |
|---|---|
| 9 | 89–90 |
| 8.5 | 85–88 |
| 8 | 79–84 |
| 7.5 | 73–78 |
| 7 | 65–72 |
| 6.5 | 58–64 |
| 6 | 50–57 |
| 5.5 | 43–49 |
| 5 | 36–42 |
When to Pick PTE
- You want fast results (2 days vs 5+).
- You're comfortable with computer-based tests.
- You're anxious about face-to-face speaking interviews.
- Your typing speed is decent.
- You're applying for AU PR (3-year validity benefit).
When to Pick IELTS
- You're a strong conversationalist face-to-face.
- You prefer paper-and-pen writing.
- Your destination institution explicitly prefers IELTS (some Canadian colleges still do).
Bottom Line
For most candidates targeting AU/NZ/UK PR or US/UK universities, PTE is the better choice — faster results, predictable AI scoring, and the ability to retake more often if needed.
Practice on ClearMyPTE
Get exam-ready with unlimited practice and full mock exams. See also PTE vs TOEFL.