Which is better IELTS or PTE

This is the trickiest decision people will have to take once they decide to migrate to any of the English Speaking countries or planning higher education abroad. I am here trying give sufficient points to consider in this decision making. First of all, it is important to understand what are these tests.

Who offers IELTS and PTE?

The International English Language Testing System, or IELTS™, is an international standardised test of English language proficiency for non-native English language speakers. It is jointly managed by the British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia and Cambridge Assessment English, and was established in 1989. This is the most popular and widely accepted International English Language test. On the other hand, Pearson Test of English or PTE is the most popular online English Language Test developed and managed my Pearson which is the world’s largest Education company focused on developing and delivering educational content and services across the globe. Therefore, in terms of popularity both these tests are well known in their own spaces. While IELTS is the most popular pen and paper test, PTE is the most popular online English test.

How about the acceptance of IELTS and PTE in Educational Institutions across the globe?

While IELTS is accepted in pretty much all universities and Colleges across the globe, PTE is accepted fewer institutions in comparison. Almost all Universities and Colleges in Australia and New Zealand. However, in other countries, only some universities and colleges accept PTE score. Therefore, it is important to browse the website of the colleges and universities to ensure the acceptance before, you choose the right one for you.

How about the acceptance of IELTS and PTE for migration purpose?

Only Australia and New Zealand accept PTE for migration purpose. For all other English-speaking countries PTE may not be the preferred test.

Are IELTS and PTE aiming to test the same skills?

Yes. Both these tests, aims to test Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking, though the method in which these tests are done are different. While IELTS speaking is done via Face-to-face interview and Listening, Reading and Writing is done as a pen and paper test, PTE tests are completely computer based.

What are differences between IELTS and PTE?

The key differences are as follows:

1. Speaking test in IELTS is face-to-face where as in PTE it is recorded
2. Speaking, Listening, Reading and Writing for IELTS is done separately one after another, where as in PTE, these modules are combined. Some questions assess Reading and Listening, some assess Listening and Speaking, Some Listening and Writing together, some assess Listening and Reading together etc. In fact, PTE method seems more scientific and natural than IELTS.
3. As Writing for IELTS is hand written, hand-writing is important and what you write should be really legible to ensure you don’t lose marks for correct answers. PTE has no such issues as you only type it in and is read by computer anyway. For the very same reason making corrections would be easier for PTE. However, if your typing speed is too low PTE would prove to be a wrong choice. Currently IELTS online test is also available which could be considered as an option for people whose handwriting is poor.
4. Results: PTE results will be available within 5 business days, where as, IELTS result would take anywhere between 1 week to 13 days. Therefore, if you are in a hurry to get your results PTE would be better choice. However, right now IELTS online test is available and the results might be out faster.
5. Evaluation criteria: Though at a broad level both these tests are trying to evaluate candidates in similar manner, there are subtle differences. If you try and study the evaluation criteria in details, you would realize that there are differences which people should be aware of before choosing between these tests. Some of the key differences are as below:
   1. Fluency carries more weightage in PTE than IELTS
   2. Speaking at length without hesitation and self-correction would really help in PTE than IELTS
   3. Variety in terms of Lexical resources and Grammar structures carry more weightage in IELTS than PTE
   4. IELTS give more weightage in paraphrasing and synonyms were as in PTE you could use the same sentences and words as in question.
   5. Speaking to an Individual vs to a computer could make a huge difference if you don’t speak accent neutral English.

Verdict: Which test should you choose?

As discussed above, there is no absolute recommendation on which one is better than the other. Your choice must be based on your need and your specific strong area. Ask yourself the following questions and refer the above listed comparisons to decide yourself which would be better for you.

1. Which of these test scores are accepted by your preferred college/university and the country you are planning to move to?
2. Are you a computer savvy, and can type in fast?
3. Are you comfortable speaking with headphone and microphone?
4. Do you have heavy accent or do you speak more accept neutral English?
5. Are you very fluent and speak at length without having to pause for long?
6. Are you strong in vocabulary and can use variety of grammar structures with ease?
7. Are you good in paraphrasing sentences given in the questions with ease?

Hope these guidelines will help you choose the right test for you.

All the very best!

Regards,
Sony George
SkillUp Global, Kochi
Mob : 9741007766