Studying abroad is a transformative goal for many aspirants who want to stay a step ahead to gain a competitive advantage, learn new languages and cultures, build an international network and eventually build a successful career. However, for overseas education, students must appear for English language tests such as the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) and Pearson Test of English (PTE). What is the difference between IELTS and PTE? Let’s find the answers to questions such as these and other interesting information.

Key Highlights:

• What is the importance of English proficiency exams?
• What is the difference between IELTS and PTE?
• PTE to IELTS score conversion: Reasons
• PTE score to IELTS: Comparision
• Things to remember when comparing PTE to IELTS
• FAQs

What is the importance of English proficiency exams?
International universities offer English-taught study programs which require English comprehension skills. Also, for a student visa, it is necessary to clear these language tests. Therefore, these exams are essential to secure a seat at your preferred university abroad.

What is the difference between IELTS and PTE?
The primary difference between IELTS and PTE is that IELTS is available in two formats: on paper and on the computer, whereas PTE is a computer-based test. The test types available for overseas education are IELTS Academic and PTE Academic.

PTE to IELTS score conversion: Reasons
For most students, taking two different language proficiency exams is difficult. Therefore, some educational institutions accept the PTE and IELTS score conversion too. However, it is advised to check if your preferred university offers such a facility.  

Things to remember when comparing PTE to IELTS
Please remember that the format, difficulty of questions in each section, and design of the format of the two exams are different. Therefore, the above PTE and IELTS score comparison is just for your reference and understanding. The total PTE score to bands of IELTS will be compared using the same table mentioned above. For instance, if you scored 6.5 in Listening, 6.0 in Reading, 5.0 in Reading and 7.0 in Speaking, your IELTS band score will be ~6.5, which should be compared to the total PTE score.

FAQs

• Is PTE easier than IELTS?

To compare the difficulty level of these exams would be incorrect because the section format, score assessment, types of questions, scoring system, assessment, etc., broadly vary. However, you must check which exam is accepted by your chosen university and your preferred study abroad destination.

• PTE or IELTS, which one should I take?

If you are not sure which exam is suitable for you, ask yourself these questions:

• Which exam is accepted by my university?
• Which English language test will be considered by my host country?
• Do I prefer an online exam or a paper-based test?
• Am I comfortable interacting with a human for the speaking section, or will I perform well with the technology-based platform?
• What are my goals pertaining to exams?

Once you know the answers to these questions, making a decision will be easy. Irrespective of which exam you choose, ensure you know the test format, the question types and the sections well so nothing comes as a surprise.

What is the PTE score equal to 6.5 in IELTS?

Approximately 56-58 in PTE will be equal to 6.5 in IELTS.
So, you can now plan and prepare for your English language proficiency tests for overseas education. If studying abroad is expensive, you can opt for an education loan for abroad programs. Student loans act as a bridge between you and your academic aspirations. You can earn your self-made badge by opting for a student loan. If you have more queries, please remember we are just a call away.