PTE or IELTS: which English test should you take?
Both are accepted for Australian visas and universities: but they feel very different. Here’s how to choose.
The short answer
Choose PTE if you want a fully computer-based test with AI scoring and very fast results, and you’re comfortable speaking into a microphone.
Choose IELTS if you prefer a human examiner for the speaking test, want a paper-based option, and value the widest global acceptance.
Both are accepted for most Australian student and skilled-migration visas, but always check your specific visa or university’s accepted tests and minimum score first.
The 30-second version
Two score tests, two very different experiences.
PTE Academic
Pearson Test of English
- Score 10–90 on the Global Scale of English
- Fully computer-based, including speaking into a mic
- AI-scored, results often in 2–5 days
- Accepted for Australian visas & many universities
IELTS
International English Language Testing System
- Band score 1.0–9.0, human-marked
- Speaking is face-to-face with an examiner
- Paper or computer; results in 3–13 days
- The long-standing, most widely accepted test
PTE vs IELTS, side by side
The differences that actually affect your choice.
| PTE Academic | IELTS | |
|---|---|---|
| Format | Entirely on a computer, at a test centre | Paper or computer; Speaking always face-to-face |
| Scoring | 10–90 (Global Scale of English), AI-marked | 1.0–9.0 bands, marked by trained examiners |
| Speaking test | You speak into a microphone; scored by AI | A real conversation with an examiner |
| Results speed | Fast, typically 2–5 days (sometimes 48 hrs) | 3–13 days |
| Skills | Integrated tasks, one task can score several skills | Four clearly separate skills |
| Acceptance | Australian visas & many universities worldwide | Very widely accepted: the global standard |
| Best for | Computer-confident test-takers who want speed & objective scoring | Those who prefer a human examiner, a paper option, or maximum acceptance |
How the scores compare
Approximate equivalents: handy when a visa or uni lists a requirement in one system but you sat the other.
| PTE score | ≈ IELTS band | CEFR level |
|---|---|---|
| 36 | 5.0 | B1 |
| 42 | 5.5 | B2 |
| 50 | 6.0 | B2 |
| 58 | 6.5 | B2 |
| 65 | 7.0 | C1 |
| 73 | 7.5 | C1 |
| 79 | 8.0 | C1 |
So… which should you take?
Match the test to how you work best.
Choose PTE if…
- You want your result fast
- You’re comfortable with computers and a mic
- You prefer objective AI scoring
- Your visa/uni accepts PTE (check first)
Choose IELTS if…
- You’d rather speak to a real examiner
- You want a paper-based option
- You need the widest acceptance worldwide
- You’re also weighing up Cambridge
A little more detail
PTE Academic is run by Pearson and is fully digital: even the speaking section is recorded and scored by AI. That makes it fast and consistent, and it’s popular with students who want a quick, objective result for an Australian visa or university offer.
IELTS remains the most widely recognised English test in the world, and many people prefer that a human examiner assesses their speaking in a natural conversation. It also offers a paper option, which suits some test-takers better.
Whichever test you choose, the foundation is your English
The single biggest factor in your score is your actual English level. Lexis builds it, with focused exam preparation and intensive General English across six campuses: and our advisors help you pick the right test for your goal.
IELTS Preparation
Explore IELTS courses →Not sure which test?
Tell us your visa or university goal and we’ll recommend the right path.
Talk to an advisor →📍 Noosa · Sunshine Coast · Brisbane · Byron Bay · Sydney · Perth. Free placement test on arrival.
PTE vs IELTS: frequently asked questions
Is PTE easier than IELTS?
Is PTE accepted for Australian visas?
Which gives results faster?
Does Lexis prepare students for PTE?
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