Almost every study-abroad application needs proof of English proficiency — but which test should you actually take? Here’s how to decide.
Check what your target university accepts
Most UK, Australian, and Canadian universities accept both IELTS and PTE Academic. Some US and a few European universities still prefer IELTS or TOEFL — always confirm before you book.
IELTS: the traditional choice
IELTS is a paper-based or computer-based test with a human-scored speaking interview. It suits students who feel more comfortable speaking to a real examiner rather than a microphone.
PTE: faster and fully computer-based
PTE Academic is entirely on-screen, including speaking, and typically returns results within 48 hours — much faster than IELTS. Many students also find its scoring more predictable since it’s AI-marked rather than subjective.
Our recommendation
If you want speed and a fully digital format, PTE usually wins. If your target visa or university strongly prefers IELTS, or you’re more comfortable with a face-to-face speaking test, go with IELTS. Either way, book a mock test first to see which format suits you.
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