“PTE vs IELTS Which is the better exam” continues to be the most frequently asked question by students who want to continue their studies in foreign universities. These two tests are among the most popular among students, one being acceptable almost everywhere and another because they are faster than anything and provide results quickly. Let us focus on this article to help organise the search for the better test, PTE vs IELTS.
Education in foreign countries demands international students to demonstrate their ability to communicate in English. To pass these English tests to study abroad is to assure the universities that the applicant can understand the lectures, easily mingle with fellow batch mates, and survive in a new city. However, between IELTS and PTE, whether “Is PTE better than IELTS?” or “Is IELTS better than PTE?” These two questions can significantly impact the student’s preliminary studying abroad process.
If you are in a dilemma on which exam between IELTS or PTE is better for you, comparing its components, including patterns, duration, questions included, results and acceptability, might be helpful for determining which of the English proficiency exams is better for you. Read on to understand the significant differences between the IELTS and PTE Academic for studying abroad.
PTE vs IELTS Overview
PTE and IELTS are recognised language proficiency tests highly recommended because of their conventional methods. They focus on all types of communication to ensure the candidate is soaked in the language. The four skills in communicative language teaching and Assessment are reading, listening, speaking, and writing.
However, many differences can be discussed when comparing PTE vs IELTS. The critical difference is that the tests are only available in a computerised form in PTE. However, the IELTS test can also be taken using pen and paper and computer modes.
Difference Between PTE and IELTS
There are a lot of differences between the PTE and IELTS exams. Students are advised to check out all the differences between the PTE and IELTS exams mentioned below:
Test Format in PTE Vs IELTS
IELTS Exam: In the past, the IELTS test checked the understanding of English comprehensively by means of four categories: IELTS speaking, IELTS reading, IELTS writing, and IELTS listening. The layout of the IELTS is such that there are individual test-taking sessions for the various components of the examination, such as the Reading. Listening, Writing and Speaking exams are conducted on another day.
PTE Academic Exam: The PTE exam focuses on determining the extent to which the candidate is able to apply English in practical contexts wherein he may have to employ one or many of the fundamental interaction skills, which include speaking, listening, reading as well as writing.
Duration of Both PTE and IELTS Examination
IELTS: The IELTS test lasts for about 2 hours and 45 minutes, and the lengths of the different sections are different. The IELTS test dates are provided frequently, but there are registration deadlines because the students should ensure that they register themselves for the IELTS exam at least one month before their desired test dates.
PTE Academic Test: The PTE exam usually takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes. This computer-based PTE exam offered to the candidates is scheduled almost daily, and candidates can enrol for the test 24 hours prior to the exam time if the preferred centres are available.
PTE Vs IELTS: Exam Fees
For the IELTS exam, you can retake only one of the parts of the test, which is called the IELTS One Skill Retake procedure, if you have yet to get the desired score the first time. It can be done if you have a complete computer-based IELTS exam, have the result of the exam, and apply for a one-skill retake by 60 days from your test date.
In contrast, the PTE exam doesn’t provide you with an option to retake the exam, and if you fail the exam, then you need to reappear for the entire exam, which means that you have to get a new appointment for the PTE exam and also pay for the same.
Conclusion
In the end, we’ve mentioned all the essential differences between the PTE vs IELTS examinations. There’s no comparison between both examinations. It’s up to you about which exam is more suitable for you. Students are advised to check the syllabus, eligibility, and test format of both PTE and IELTS examinations before applying to find the most appropriate examination for them.
Also Read: GMAT vs GRE: Which Exam to Choose?