Choosing the right English Proficiency exam can be hectic. You will likely have to do one of the 2 most popular if you are applying for university, migration, or even professional registration. These internationally recognized exams would test your proficiency in the big four – listening, reading, writing, and speaking. But, I mean, which of these exams would work best for you? Now, if you are still in a dilemma as to which test is better then let us compare both further so that you take your pick with all due awareness. Making the right choice for English Language Testing: Let’s Compare IELTS and PTE.
It is not possible to decide between both international English proficiency tests, let’s compare IELTS and PTE. The right exam is a requirement for your study or migration plan. Both tests examine listening, reading, writing, and speaking. However, when it comes to the International English Language Testing System, you can choose either a paper-based or computer-based exam, although this is a traditional manner; on the other hand, the Pearson exam is delivered completely on the computer and delivers the results faster. Hence, your choice of interaction, timing, and speed will be important factors. Knowing the contrast between these courses will help you to pick the best one for your future.
Compare IELTS And PTE: What Are These English Proficiency Tests?
The International Language Testing System is a globally approved standardized process for assessing and measuring English language proficiency. This 120-hour TEFL TESOL Program is internationally recognized by governments and universities worldwide.
The Pearson Test of English is a relatively new process but it has become quickly accepted because it is a computer-based exam. Pearson Language Test is now introduced to various immigrants and institutes by different officials in place of the International English Language Testing System. To begin with, learn the distinctions between both language testing systems here.
IELTS: Offers two types of formats – computer-based and paper-based. The speaking test is face-to-face with an examiner.
PTE: It is computer-based. Even the speaking section is recorded through a microphone, and all parts of the evaluation are taken on a computer.
Speaking Section:
Compare IELTS and PTE in the speaking section.
| Features | IELTS | PTE |
| Format | Face-to-face with a human examiner | Computer-based recorded via microphone |
| Interaction | Live and conversational | No human interaction, automated |
| Duration | 11-14 minutes | 30 to 35 minutes |
| Task Type | Q/A, Short speech, Discussion | Read aloud, repeat sentences, describe images |
| Scoring | Assessed by Examiner | Scored by AI |
Listening Section:
PTE: It relates multiple-choice, fill-in-the-blanks, and summarising spoken text. The audio recordings are more neutral and often machine-generated.
IELTS: It relates a variety of question types such as multiple-choice, matching, and diagram labeling. The audio recordings cover a range of accents (British, American, Australian).
Comparing the listening format of the International exams system and the Pearson exam:
| Features | IELTS | PTE |
| Format | Paper-based or computer-based | Fully computer based |
| Question types | Multichoice, matching sentence completion | Multiple choice, fill in the blanks, highlight correct summary |
| Audio type | Conversation, monologues, various accents | Lectures, conversations, Native-like accents |
| Duration | 30-40 minutes | 30-43 minutes |
| scoring | Human Scored | AI Scored |
Reading Section:
International Language Exam Checks your ability to read and understand various types of texts, from descriptive to analytical. There are 40 questions across different sections.
Pearson Test Of English: Includes multiple-choice, fill-in-the-blanks, and reordering paragraphs. It’s entirely computer-based, and questions are based on academic and general.
Here’s a short table of readings, comparing IELTS and PTE.
| Feature | IELTS | PTE |
| Format | Paper-based or computer-based | Fully computer based |
| Question types | Multiple choice, Gap fill, Matching | Multiple choice, Gap fills, and Recorded paragraph |
| Text types | Academic and general passages | Academic focused texts |
| Duration | 60 minutes | 32-41 minutes |
| Scoring | Human scored | AI scored |
Writing Section:
IELTS: In the writing section, you are asked to write two tasks: one descriptive and one argumentative. The tasks need structured responses and must demonstrate your writing style.
PTE: You will write one or two essays (depending on the version) and summarise written texts. This process automatically checks spelling, coherence, and grammar.
Compare IELTS And PTE Scoring Systems: Which Is More Precise?
The scores range from Band 1 to Band 9 in it. Each section Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking, is checked out independently with an average marked on the score of the International Language Testing System.
It is based on a scoring scale ranging from 10 to 90. An automated process computes your score, hence free of bias and consistency in the Pearson Exam.
Test Centers And Scheduling
The International English Language Testing System is widely available in many centers all over the world. Depending on which center, it can either be computer-based or paper-based.
Pearson is widely available in several centers but is only computer-based.
Testing Time
IELTS: usually 2 hours and 45 minutes long, though for some, the speaking section takes a different day.
Pearson: Almost as brief, two hours. Speaking and everything else is done in one sitting.
Acceptance
The International English Language Testing System is recognized and accepted by more than 11,000 institutions worldwide, including universities, governments, and employers. Its scores are used for migration purposes in many countries.
Over 3,000 institutions around the globe accept the Pearson Language exam. It is increasingly recognized now more than ever for study abroad programs and migration purposes.
Conversion Table
Conversion table of both Exams:
| IELTS Bands | PTE Score Range |
| 9.0 | 86 – 90 |
| 8.0 | 79 – 82 |
| 7.0 | 65 – 72 |
| 6.0 | 50 – 57 |
| 5.0 | 35 – 41 |
| 4.0 | 23 – 29 |
Which Test is Easier?
People who are comfortable with the computer prefer Pearson since the evaluation is completely computer-based.
Those wanting a human touch for the speaking section and do not mind that the test is mixed between paper and computer-based screening prefer the International English Testing System.
Pearson is more suitable for those who need quick results. The fully automated scoring method provides results within 48 hours but the International Testing System takes About 5-7 days.
Conclusion
Both methods hold important positions as proficiency tests are taken by thousands of institutions all over the world. However, the choice depends on personal preferences and needs. The International English Testing System is favored by those who prefer face-to-face speaking test formats and a mixture of paper-based or computer-based formats. On the other hand, Pearson Of English offers entirely computer-based with faster results delivery, well suited for tech-savvy test takers.
At AELC, we understand that it is always a difficult decision to opt between the International Testing System and Pearson. We guide and let you know what best serves the purpose, and we assure you as much comfort and practicality in the outcome. Contact us for the most impeccable professional advice and guidance on which best suits your study, work, or immigration plans.
You may also like: IELTS Preparation In Karachi.
