PTE vs IELTS: Know the Difference & Which Test is Easier?

Whenever we think about moving abroad for either studying or working, clearing the English language proficiency test is the most important and key requirements. Two among of the most of the English Language Tests are the most popular tests across the globe and they are PTE (Pearson Test of English) and IELTS (International English Language Testing System). Both these tests are structure to the English language skills of the test takers but there are few differences in both these tests in several parts. In this blog, we will explore the differences between PTE vs IELTS, see pros and cons of each test, and help you to choose the easier test for you as per your requirement.

Let’s begin with PTE

What is PTE?

PTE (Pearson Test of English) is a popular test which is completely computer-based. It evaluates the ability of a test taker over four different areas of the English language which are Speaking, Writing, Reading, and Listening. The test is best known for its scoring system which is supported by AI (Artificial Intelligence). The AI Driven scoring system reduces the possibilities of being it human bias. The test was launched by Pearson and in recent years, it has gained popularity across the globe because of its flexibility, quick results, and user-friendly structure for the test.

Reasons to select PTE

1. The first and foremost reason to select the PTE is English Language Test is it’s being completely computer-based which means the answers are assessed by the algorithm which is supported by Artificial Intelligence. It makes sure that the scores do get prejudiced by any kind of human bias.
2. Fast results: Second and again an important reason to select PTE test is time taken to deliver the results which is as less as within 48-hours. It can be really helpful to those candidates who are looking forward to apply for migrating to a foreign nation and need a certificate for the English language test in a short time.
3. Unlike other test, PTE offers wide range of options for the test dates to choose during entire year and also, one can book the test date within the shorter duration.
4. Immigration offices or the High Commission of Australia, New Zealand and Canada accepts the PTE as well as many prestigious universities across the globe also accepts it.

Structure of PTE

The course curriculum of PTE is divided into three parts:

1. Speaking and Writing (Duration from 54 to 67 minutes): This part evaluates the spoken and written communication skills of the test taker. Introduction, repeating sentences, describing images and writing essays are tasks to do in this part.
2. Reading (Duration from 29 to 30 minutes): This part assesses the ability to read and comprehend passages. There are multiple-choice questions, rearranging the paragraphs, and filling in the blanks in this part which a test taker has to complete.
3. Listening (Duration from 30 to 43 minutes): This part includes tasks like briefing spoken texts, filling in the blanks, and multiple-choice questions. All these are based on audio clips.

Let’s understand what is IELTS?

IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is one of the globally recognized English proficiency tests. There are two different formats of tests: IELTS Academic is for students aiming to move abroad for higher studies while IELTS General is for those who are willing to migrate to a country where English is the primary language of communication. The assessment of Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking skills are evaluated in IELTS.

Top reasons to choose IELTS?

It offers two different types of test formats: IELTS provide us two different test formats to choose from for different motives.

Global acceptance and recognition: It is accepted in countries like Australia, the UK, Canada and even, the USA. Almost 10,000+ different organizations such as academic institutions, employers, professional bodies, and immigration departments accepts IELTS.

Two different test formats to choose from: Unlike other English language tests, we can choose from two different test format offered by IELTS. It can be either paper based or computer based.

Course structure of IELTS

1. Listening. The test of Listening lasts for 30 minutes. Questions will be asked on the basis of a total 4 recordings which is about everyday situations of our life as well as academic discussions.
2. Reading. The reading test is for the duration of 60 minutes. The questions asked in the reading test are based on content given for the reading. The answers given by the test takers after reading the content helps to assess their ability to understand analyze information.
3. Writing. There are two tasks in a Writing test which lasts for 60 minutes. These tasks are about summarizing information, writing an essay and responding to a situation.
4. Speaking. This test is actually a face-to-face interview where the examiner assesses the ability of the test taker to express the opinions on various topics. The duration of the test is approx. 11 to 14 minutes.

Key Differences Between PTE and IELTS

After understanding the basic structure and feature of IELTS & PTE, it’s time now to find key differences between these two tests:

1. Mode of exams:

   PTE: PTE is completely computer-based test.

   IELTS: IELTS can be taken as a paper-based or computer-based test. However, the speaking part is a face-to-face interview with an examiner.

2. Scoring System:

   PTE: Scoring is entirely automated and objective as it is done by Artificial Intelligence.

   IELTS: Assessment is done by a human. This brings personal touch as well as subjectivity to the scoring.

3. Turnaround time for Results:

   PTE: We generally get the result within 48 hours.

   IELTS: It takes 13-days for the result of a paper-based test and approx. 5-7 days for a computer-based test.

4. Speaking Test:

   PTE: Test taker has to speak in a microphone and AI assesses the performance of the test taker.

   IELTS: It is always a face-to-face interview with a human.

5. Duration of the exams:

   PTE: PTE Test lasts for approx. 03 hours.

   IELTS: Listening, Writing and Reading tests are conducted on same day and duration of the test is approx. 2 hours and 45 minutes. Speaking test is conducted separately on some other day.

6. Difficulty Level:

1. Speaking Section

   PTE: The computer-based test format for the PTE is specifically designed with AI supported scoring. It is convenient for those who are comfortable using the computers. On the other hand, AI used in assessment of the test may not be able to pick the correct pronunciation tones.

   IELTS: Personal conversation for the speaking test may seems difficult to handle but it also provides a personal touch which can be highly beneficial for the test taker.

2. Writing Section

   The writing test in PTE needs short essay writing and summarizing tasks. It is more formulaic and straightforward.

Writing tasks in IELTS is more multifaceted and assessed manually. It means that the evaluation of the writing style and coherence are examined deeply.

3. Scoring and Results

 As the scoring in PTE is evaluated by AI, the scoring is faster and unbiased.

Evaluation in IELTS test is done completely done by a human examiner thus taking more time. In case you are not in a rush to get your result then you can definitely opt for IELTS.

4. Test Preparation

   PTE depends entirely on computer-based tasks and it someone is a tech-savvy person then PTE can be an easier and convenient option.

IELTS needs a in-depth preparation and sometime, personal coaching too for enhancing writing and speaking skills. Thus, it is more convenient choice for those who are comfortable with traditional classroom preparations.

Shreehari’s Guidance for Choosing the Right Test

With an experience of coaching for over 15 years, Shreehari understands that it can be a difficult choice to make and it is entirely depends on the motive of moving abroad. We have a team of experienced counselors who will assess you profile, find your strength and learn about your preferences to give you expert advise to select the best suitable option. Moreover, we are partnered with Cambridge for providing best IELTS Coaching and trained faculties to enhance your skills for either PTE or IELTS Tests. We have classrooms with advanced and modern facilities for a traditional classroom coaching and also, with technology to practice listening tests. We have computer lab to practice for PTE test to give you experience of the exam center for the test. Shreehari believes in providing best coaching for either IELTS or PTE to make sure that you are prepared well for the deserved success.

Conclusion

PTE and IELTS; both have their significant advantages and accommodate the need of different types of test-takers. It is necessary to understand the key differences in these two tests before making a choice. A person comfortable with technology and use of computers can opt for PTE while someone ready to handle personal communications at various stages of the exams, as well as assessment by a human, can select IELTS.

At Shreehari, we focused to help you to make the correct choice for your future endeavor. We provide excellent coaching for PTE and IELTS with a goal to enhance your skills required for the success. Feel free to contact us today to find more details and to start your journey!