If you plan to study abroad, you will almost certainly be asked for an English test score. The three most common are IELTS, TOEFL and PTE Academic. All three test listening, reading, writing and speaking, but they feel different. This article helps you choose.
Test formats, fees, score scales and which scores a university accepts change over time. Treat this as an overview and check each test's official website and your chosen university's requirements before you book.
The three tests side by side
| IELTS (Academic) | TOEFL iBT | PTE Academic | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scoring | Bands, roughly 0 to 9 | Roughly 0 to 120 in total | Roughly 10 to 90 |
| Delivery | Paper or computer; speaking is a face-to-face interview | On a computer; speaking is recorded | Fully on a computer; speaking is recorded |
| Marking | Mostly human examiners | Combination of human and automated | Mainly automated |
| Length | Around 2 hours 45 minutes | Around 2 hours (format has been updated over time) | Around 2 hours |
| Results | Typically in several days | Typically within a few days | Often within a few days |
| Often chosen by | Students for UK, Australia, Canada, many others | Many US universities | Students who like computer-based tests |
How to choose
- Start with the university. Check which tests and minimum scores your course accepts. Some accept all three; some name only one or two.
- Think about speaking. If you are more comfortable talking to a person, a face-to-face speaking test may feel natural. If speaking to a microphone is easier, a computer-based speaking section may suit you.
- Think about writing and typing. Computer-based tests need comfortable typing speed.
- Think about marking style. Some students prefer human marking; others like the consistency of automated scoring.
- Check availability and fees near you. Test centres, dates and prices vary.
Preparing for any of them
- Take a free or official practice test first to find your starting level.
- Build your vocabulary and reading daily with news, articles and books in English.
- Practise listening with different accents, such as British, American and Australian.
- Write short essays on a timer and get feedback from a teacher or fluent friend.
- Speak aloud every day, even alone, recording yourself to hear your pace and clarity.
- Take at least a few full timed mocks before the real test.
A good score comes from steady practice over months, not from tricks. Whichever you choose, book early so you have time to retake if needed.
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