IELTS vs PTE: Choosing the Right English Test for Australian Visas

Meeting English language requirements is essential for Australian skilled migration. The two most popular tests are IELTS (International English Language Testing System) and PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English). Which one should you choose?

Test Overview

IELTS

• Format: Paper-based or computer-based
• Duration: 2 hours 45 minutes
• Results: Available in 13 days (paper) or 3-5 days (computer)
• Validity: 3 years
• Cost: Around AUD $375

PTE Academic

• Format: Computer-based only
• Duration: 2 hours
• Results: Available within 48 hours
• Validity: 3 years
• Cost: Around AUD $375

Australian Department of Home Affairs Equivalents

Level	IELTS	PTE
Competent	6.0 each	50 each
Proficient	7.0 each	65 each
Superior	8.0 each	79 each

Each = all four components (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking)

Scoring Differences

IELTS Scoring (0-9 scale)

• Listening: 40 questions, 1 point each
• Reading: 40 questions, 1 point each
• Writing: Assessed by human examiners
• Speaking: Face-to-face interview

PTE Scoring (10-90 scale)

• Computer-automated scoring for all sections
• Partial credit for some answers
• Integrated skills testing (speaking and writing together)

Which Test is Easier?

The answer depends on your strengths:

Choose IELTS if you:

• Prefer human interaction in speaking
• Are comfortable with handwritten essays
• Want predictable question formats
• Perform better with traditional testing

Choose PTE if you:

• Are comfortable with computers and typing
• Want faster results
• Excel at integrated tasks
• Prefer objective, automated scoring
• Need to retake quickly if necessary

Common Challenges

IELTS Challenges

• Writing: Strict assessment criteria, requires formal academic style
• Speaking: Nervousness in face-to-face interviews
• Time management: Fixed timing for each section

PTE Challenges

• Speaking: Background noise from other test-takers
• Technology issues: Microphone sensitivity
• Integrated tasks: Requires multitasking skills

Tips for IELTS Success

1. Practice writing essays under timed conditions
2. Learn the assessment criteria for writing and speaking
3. Use official practice materials from Cambridge or British Council
4. Take mock tests to build endurance
5. Focus on task response in writing (answer all parts of the question)

Tips for PTE Success

1. Practice speaking clearly in a noisy environment
2. Learn the question types - PTE has 20 different formats
3. Use the preparation time effectively (10 seconds for some speaking tasks)
4. Don't pause too long - microphone stops recording after 3 seconds of silence
5. Focus on pronunciation and fluency over complex vocabulary

Recent Changes and Updates

• Both tests now offer online remote proctoring options in some locations
• PTE Core is now accepted for some visa types (faster, 2 hours)
• Results validity extended to 3 years for most visa applications

Retaking the Test

• IELTS: No limit on retakes, can retake one skill only (One Skill Retake)
• PTE: No limit on retakes, must wait 5 days between attempts

Cost Comparison

Both tests cost approximately AUD $375-400 in Australia. However:

• PTE often has promotional discounts
• IELTS One Skill Retake costs less than full test

Making Your Decision

Consider:

1. Your learning style and comfort with technology
2. Test center availability in your location
3. Your timeline (PTE = faster results)
4. Practice test performance in both formats

Final Recommendation

Many test-takers report higher scores on PTE, particularly in speaking and writing. However, this isn't universal. Take practice tests in both formats before deciding.

Remember: You can submit results from either test or even both tests in your EOI - the Department accepts whichever gives you the higher score.

Good luck with your English test preparation!