PTE vs IELTS – Everything You Need to Know
FEBRUARY 2026
If you’re preparing for an English test, you’ve probably asked this question already:
Should I take PTE or IELTS?
It’s a fair question—and a common one. Both exams are recognised around the world, but they differ in format, timing, and how you experience the test itself.
This article compares PTE and IELTS side by side, focusing on what really matters to test takers. By the end, you’ll have a clearer idea of which exam suits you best—and how to prepare effectively once you’ve made your choice.
IELTS and PTE: An Overview
IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
IELTS is one of the longest-established English proficiency tests, first introduced in 1989. It is jointly managed by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge English and is widely recognised by universities, employers, and immigration authorities around the world.
IELTS assesses four core language skills: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. Test takers can choose between paper-based or computer-based formats, and the Speaking test is conducted face-to-face with a trained examiner. Because of its long history, IELTS is familiar to many institutions and test takers globally.
PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English)
PTE Academic is a newer, fully computer-based English test, developed by Pearson and introduced in 2009. It was designed specifically for a digital testing environment, including a computer-recorded Speaking section.
Like IELTS, PTE also assesses Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking and is accepted for study, work, and migration purposes in many countries. All responses are scored using a computer-based system, which aims to provide consistent and objective assessment.
PTE’s structure and delivery appeal to test takers who prefer a fully digital exam experience and faster turnaround times.
What’s the Same Between IELTS and PTE?
Despite differences in format and delivery, IELTS and PTE have many similarities:
- Purpose: Both are used for study, work, and migration applications
- Skills tested: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking
- Cost: Exam fees are generally similar and vary by country
- Acceptance: Both are accepted by universities, employers, and governments worldwide
- Validity: Test results are typically valid for two years
At their core, both exams measure the same thing—your ability to communicate effectively in English. The real differences lie in how the tests are delivered and how you experience them as a test taker.
What’s Different Between IELTS and PTE?
Although IELTS and PTE test the same language skills, they differ in test format, speaking experience, and result timelines. These differences can influence how comfortable you feel during the exam and how quickly you receive your results.
PTE vs IELTS: Comparison Table
| Feature | IELTS | PTE Academic |
|---|---|---|
| Test Format | Paper-based or computer-based for Reading, Writing, and ListeningFace-to-face Speaking test | Fully computer-based for all sections, including Speaking |
| Scoring System | Band score from 1 to 9 | Score scale from 10 to 90 |
| Scoring Method | Human examiner using assessment criteria | Computer-based scoring with human assessors introduced since August 2025 |
| Results Speed | Several days to over a week | Often within 48 hours |
| Test Experience | Traditional exam setting with facilitators and proctors | Self-navigation, fully digital exam experience |
Test format
IELTS offers flexibility in delivery, including a face-to-face Speaking test, which some candidates prefer for its conversational feel. PTE, on the other hand, is entirely computer-based, including Speaking, creating a consistent and standardised test experience.
Scoring system
IELTS uses a band score from 1 to 9, which is widely recognised and familiar. PTE uses a score scale from 10 to 90, with detailed scoring across skills. While the scales are different, both are accepted by institutions and authorities worldwide.
Scoring method
The main difference in scoring between the two exams is in the Speaking section/subtest. IELTS relies on human examiners following established assessment criteria for each bandscore. On the other hand, PTE uses mainly computer-based scoring, with human assessors introduced since August 2025 to support evaluation, combining automation with human oversight.
Results speed
PTE is known for faster result turnaround, often within 48 hours, which can be helpful for candidates working with tight deadlines. IELTS results typically take longer, depending on the test format and location.
Overall test experience
IELTS follows a more traditional exam setup with facilitators and a live speaking interview. PTE provides a fully digital, self-navigated experience, which appeals to candidates who prefer structured, computer-based testing.
Which Exam Should You Take? Pros and Cons
Both IELTS and PTE are trusted English proficiency tests. The right choice depends on how you prefer to take exams, how quickly you need results, and what testing environment helps you perform best.
| Aspect | IELTS | PTE Academic |
|---|---|---|
| Pros | • Face-to-face Speaking test with a human examiner• Long-established test recognised worldwide• Familiar format for many test takers | • Fully computer-based test, including Speaking• Faster results, often within 48 hours• Structured and consistent test experience• Clear timing and task formats |
| Cons | • Results usually take longer to be released• Speaking experience can vary depending on the examiner• Traditional exam setting may feel more stressful for some candidates | • Requires comfort with typing and speaking to a computer• Fully digital format may feel unfamiliar to some candidates |
| Best for | Test takers who prefer human interaction, a traditional exam environment, or are less comfortable with technology | Test takers who prefer a fully digital exam, value predictability, and want faster results |
A Practical Way to Decide
- Choose IELTS if you prefer a face-to-face speaking interview and a more traditional exam environment.
- Choose PTE if you prefer a fully digital exam, faster results, and a structured testing experience.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Exam
Whether you choose IELTS or PTE, the goal is the same—to show that you can use English confidently for study, work, or migration. Both exams are widely accepted and test the same core skills. The right choice comes down to how you prefer to take the test and which format helps you perform at your best.
No matter which exam you decide on, one thing remains true: practice is key.
What’s Next? Practise with Confidence
The best way to prepare for either IELTS or PTE is through realistic practice that mirrors the actual exam experience. This means practising under real timing conditions, using authentic question types, and understanding how the test flows from start to finish.
Benchmark provides realistic mock tests and expert guidance to help test takers build confidence, improve performance, and feel ready on exam day—whether you’re preparing for PTE or IELTS.
