FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions – Kangaroo Learning
This article provides a comprehensive comparison of IELTS and PTE, emphasizing their key similarities, differences, and important features. It covers the test formats, scoring systems, and difficulty levels, helping you decide which exam is better suited for your goals. Whether you’re aiming for academic purposes, immigration, or professional opportunities, this guide will assist you in choosing the most appropriate language proficiency test for your needs.
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Both tests are accepted by a number of institutions and countries.
- PTE is accepted by more than 3,300 organisations globally, including academic, professional and governmental organisations. It is accepted in countries such as Australia, Canada, USA, New Zealand and the UK.
- IELTS is accepted by more than 11,500 organisations globally, including academic, professional and governmental organisations. All immigration departments that require an English Language for English-speaking countries such as the UK, Australia, Canada and New Zealand accept IELTS
- PTE is completely computer-based.
- IELTS can be taken on paper or on a computer in a test centre. This means you can choose the option that suits you best. In some locations test takers can also take IELTS Online from the comfort of their own home.
The Speaking section is delivered quite differently:
- In PTE, everything is completely computer-based. This means you will be speaking to a computer in your Speaking test.
- In IELTS, the Speaking test will take place face-to-face with an experienced official IELTS Speaking Examiner. In some countries where IELTS Online is available, the Speaking test takes place over a video-call with an official IELTS Speaking Examiner.
- IELTS is the only test to offer One Skill Retake , for test takers who took the IELTS on computer test. This means if you don’t get the score you need in one of the test sections, you will be able to retake that skill (Listening, Reading, Writing or Speaking).
- In comparison, if you don’t get the score you need in one section of PTE, you will have to sit the whole test again.
Both IELTS and PTE scores are valid for two years from the date of the test. After that, you may need to retake the exam to provide updated language proficiency evidence.
IELTS takes approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes, while PTE takes around 3 hours to complete. Both tests cover Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking sections, but the time allocated for each section may differ.
PTE results are typically available within 48 hours after completing the test. IELTS results for the paper-based test are available after 13 days, while the computer-based IELTS results are usually provided within 3-5 days.
The cost of taking IELTS and PTE can vary depending on the country or region where you are taking the test. However, in most places, the fees for both tests are quite similar, ranging between $110 to $150.
Yes, both IELTS and PTE are accepted for visa applications to countries like Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and the UK, but it’s essential to check the specific visa requirements for the country you are applying to.
Yes, you can retake both IELTS and PTE as many times as you need to achieve your desired score. However, IELTS offers the additional benefit of One Skill Retake (for computer-based tests), allowing you to retake only one section.
