The similarity between IELTS, TOEFL or PTE exams is that they all act as a proof of English language proficiency and are gauged through specific standardised tests. The most number of universities widely accepts TOEFL and IELTS test scores. PTE is a newer entrant in this field. Learn more about IELTS, TOEFL and PTE which are conducted on different platforms and their requirements are entirely distinctive.
IELTS
Many educational institutions, professional bodies, governments and employers rely on IELTS. This English proficiency examination is required while migrating to countries such as New Zealand, Canada, Australia, and the UK.
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Depending on the organisation you are applying, and what your plans are for the future, there are two tests: IELTS academic or IELTS general training.
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IELTS academic test is for those who want to apply for higher education in universities and other institutions or pursue professional registration such as medical doctors and nurses in an English-speaking country.
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IELTS general training test is for those who are planning to migrate or apply for secondary education, training programme and work experience in an English-speaking country.
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IELTS assesses all four language skills - reading, writing, listening and speaking.
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The perfect overall band score is 9.0 with a perfect score of 9.0 in each sub-test: speaking, listening, reading, and writing.
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IELTS is a paper-based test. A few centers have introduced computer-based test from March 2016. The speaking test will remain face-to-face.
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The IELTS test results are declared 13 days after the test date.
TOEFL
Test of English as a Foreign Language certification is required if you want to pursue a career in the international market, gain a competitive edge among other non-native English speakers and find better work opportunities in the United Kingdom, the United States of America, Canada and Australia.
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TOEFL has essentially two versions: TOEFL IBT (Internet-based test) and TOEFL PBT (paper-based test).
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Both the versions of TOEFL have four sections- reading, speaking, listening and writing.
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The type of English used is mostly American English.
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The highest score in the TOEFL is 120 with a perfect score for each test: reading, listening, speaking, and writing.
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The speaking test is recorded. Questions are pre-recorded and preparation time is given for candidates to gather their thoughts.
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Registration is only possible online. Candidates need to use a credit card to register for the examination. A passport and a driver’s license are used for identification purposes.
PTE
Pearson launched the Pearson Test of English (PTE) in 2009, and this is one of the latest entrants into the field of testing and certifying English language proficiency of non-native English speakers for abroad study, immigration and PR purpose.
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PTE has three modules: PTE Academic, PTE General and PTE Young Learners.
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PTE Academic- It assesses the English language skills of the candidates applying to Universities in English speaking countries. PTE academic is also accepted for work visa purposes.
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PTE General- The universities, national education authorities, employers accept PTE general, as proof of a required standard of English. In PTE general, there are six levels of language proficiency, i.e. A1, 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5. PTE general only assesses communication levels and is not accepted for Visa purpose, and by most of the universities worldwide.
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PTE Young Learners- It is an international English language exam for young children (aged from 7 to 12) who learn English as a foreign language.
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PTE Test slots are readily available throughout the year. You can book at any time, even up to 24 hours before the test.
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PTE is a computer-based test.
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PTE has four sections:
- Listening- writing.
- Speaking- Listening- Writing.
- Reading- Writing.
- Writing- Reading.
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PTE academic scoring pattern is point based, i.e. 10-90 points. The test scores have two years validity.
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All the language skills are assessed on the same day, which is an advantage to the candidates. The duration of the test is about 3 hours.
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The results will be announced within five days. Quick results help test takers to apply for an education or work visa.
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