IELTS vs. PTE vs. TOEFL: Which is Best for UK Study?
For international students planning to study in the UK, proving English language proficiency is a crucial step in the admission process. Three of the most widely accepted English language tests are IELTS, PTE, and TOEFL. But which one should you choose? Here’s a detailed comparison to help you make an informed decision.
1. Overview of IELTS, PTE, and TOEFL
Test
Full Form
Test Format
Scoring
Accepted by UK Universities
IELTS
International English Language Testing System
Paper-based & Computer-based
0-9 Band Score
Widely Accepted
PTE
Pearson Test of English
Computer-based
10-90 Score
Increasingly Accepted
TOEFL
Test of English as a Foreign Language
Internet-based (iBT)
0-120 Score
Accepted, but limited
2. Detailed Comparison
A. Test Structure & Content
IELTS: Covers Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. The speaking test is conducted face-to-face with an examiner.
PTE: Fully computerized test covering Speaking & Writing, Reading, and Listening with AI-based scoring.
TOEFL: Internet-based test covering Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing with recorded responses for speaking.
B. Test Duration
Test
Duration
IELTS
2 hours 45 minutes
PTE
2 hours
TOEFL
3 hours
C. Scoring System
IELTS: Each section is scored from 0-9, and the average gives the final band score.
PTE: Uses 10-90 scale with AI-driven assessment.
TOEFL: Each section is scored out of 30, with a total of 120.
D. Difficulty Level & Flexibility
Factor
IELTS
PTE
TOEFL
Speaking Test
Face-to-face with an examiner
AI-based assessment
Responses recorded
Writing Test
Essay writing & letter/report writing
Summarizing & essay writing
Essay & task responses
Reading Test
Variety of texts & question types
MCQs & fill-in-the-blanks
MCQs & summary-based
Listening Test
Conversations & monologues
Audio clips with questions
Lectures & conversations
E. Test Availability & Results Time
IELTS: Available several times a month, results in 3-5 days (computer-based) or 13 days (paper-based).
PTE: Available almost every day, results in 24-48 hours.
TOEFL: Available weekly, results in 4-8 days.
3. Which Test is Best for Studying in the UK?
A. If You Prefer Face-to-Face Interaction:
Choose IELTS (since the Speaking test is conducted in person).
B. If You Want Quick Results & Flexible Dates:
Choose PTE (faster results & frequent test dates).
C. If You Are Comfortable with a Fully Computerized Test:
Choose PTE or TOEFL (both use AI-based scoring & recorded responses).
D. If Your University Has a Preference:
Check your university’s website; most UK universities prefer IELTS, but PTE and TOEFL are also accepted by many institutions.
4. Final Verdict
IELTS: Best for students who prefer traditional testing & widely accepted across UK universities.
PTE: Ideal for students who want faster results and an AI-based testing approach.
TOEFL: Good for students who are comfortable with an entirely digital test, but acceptance may be limited in the UK.
Pro Tip: Before choosing a test, always check the specific language requirements of your chosen university in the UK.
Need Help?
Still unsure which test to take? Get in touch with our experts for personalized guidance on IELTS, PTE, and TOEFL preparation for UK studies!
