Introduction to IELTS and PTE
If you are reading this. I assume that you know which country you are going to. Whether it’s to study abroad, migrate, or seek international work.
But make sure you choose the right English skill test. IELTS and PTE are the best options that are currently available.
In this blog, you will understand what language skills to choose for your needs.
What is IELTS?
IELTS – International English Language Testing System
IELTS is one of the most popular English tests in the world. It is managed by:
- The British Council
- IDP: IELTS Australia
- Cambridge Assessment English
There are two types:
- IELTS Academic: For students who want to study in an English-speaking country or apply for professional jobs.
- IELTS General Training: For people who want to work or migrate to an English-speaking country.
IELTS tests your skills in:
- Listening
- Reading
- Writing
- Speaking
Over 11,500 organizations around the world accept IELTS. These include universities, employers, and immigration offices.
Difference Between IELTS and PTE (2025 Updated)
Feature | IELTS | PTE |
Mode | Paper-based | Fully Computer-based |
Scoring | Examiner and Computer | Fully AI-trained computers |
Result Time | 13 days | 2-5 working days |
Speaking Section | In-person with the examiner | AI-based (computer) |
Acceptance | Widely accepted worldwide | Gaining ground quickly |
Test Duration | ~2 hrs 45 min | ~2 hrs |
Score Validity | 2 years | 2 years |
Test Fee (Nepal) | ~ NPR 28,000 | ~ NPR 28,000 |
Score Range | 0-9 bands | 10-90 bands |
Retake Policy | 60 days | 12 times within a 12-month window |
Key Differences You Need to Know in 2025
If you’re choosing between IELTS and PTE, here are the main things to know:
1. Test Format
IELTS
You can choose paper-based or computer-based tests. The speaking test is done face-to-face with a trained examiner, usually on a different day.
PTE
Fully computer-based. All parts of the test are done in one session.
You speak into a microphone during the speaking section, often while others are taking their test, too.
Choose based on whether you’re more comfortable with people or computers.
2. How Scores Are Given
IELTS
- Writing and Speaking are scored by real people
- Reading and Listening scores are based on correct answers
PTE
- All sections are scored by artificial intelligence (AI)
- AI compares your answers to thousands of past responses
Some people feel more confident with human scoring for speaking and writing.
3. When Do You Get Results?
- IELTS: 13 days
- PTE: 1–2 days
4. Speaking Section
- IELTS
- Face-to-face interview
- Feels like a normal conversation
- Three parts: questions, short speech, and discussion
- PTE
- Talk into a microphone
- Tasks include reading aloud and answering questions
- Done in a room where others may be speaking at the same time
Pick the one you’re more comfortable with.
5. Which Test Is Accepted More?
- IELTS
Accepted by almost all universities and immigration offices worldwide. - PTE
Gaining popularity fast
Accepted by most institutions in Australia, UK, New Zealand, Canada, and USA
Some Canadian schools still prefer IELTS
Always check what your school or visa office requires.
6. Which Test Is Harder?
- IELTS
- Many find the Writing section difficult
- Academic Reading has tough texts
- PTE
- Requires clear pronunciation for AI to understand
- Has integrated tasks that mix listening, reading, and writing
Neither test is easier overall — they just test skills differently.
7. How Often Can You Retake?
- IELTS
- After 60 days
- PTE
- You can only book one test at a time
- Tests can be booked up to 6 months in advance
- Can only take it 12 times in 12 months
Choose carefully if you think you might need to try more than once quickly.
8. Technology Skills Needed
- IELTS
Easy for most people
Little technical skill needed, especially with paper-based testing - PTE
Needs basic computer skills
Must type fast and speak clearly into a mic
- PTE
Final Tip:
Your choice depends on:
- Comfort with technology
- Preference for human vs. computer interaction
- Time limits for results
- Location and availability in Nepal
Check the requirements of the country or university where you’re applying before deciding.
Which Test Is Better for You in 2025?
Choose PTE if:
- You are good with computers
- You need results fast (1–2 days)
- You feel nervous speaking to a person
- You speak clearly so Computer can understand you
- You’re applying to schools in Australia or New Zealand
- You want flexible test dates
- You like computer scoring instead of human scoring
Choose IELTS if:
- You prefer talking to a real person
- You do better in face-to-face conversations
- You’re applying to schools in the UK or Canada, where IELTS is more popular
- You live somewhere without a PTE center
- You might need to take the test many times
- You worry about technical problems or typing speed
- You like paper-based tests
What Countries Accept Each Test in 2025?
- Australia: Both IELTS and PTE are accepted for study and immigration
- Canada: IELTS is still more widely accepted, but PTE is becoming more popular
- UK: Most schools accept both, though some special programs still prefer IELTS
- USA: Most universities accept both, but always check with your school
- New Zealand: Both IELTS and PTE are widely accepted
Pros and Cons of IELTS
Pros of IELTS
- Accepted Everywhere: IELTS is trusted by schools, employers, and immigration offices around the world.
- Talk to a Person: The speaking test is face-to-face, which feels more natural for many students.
- Choose Your Test Type: You can choose between writing on paper or using a computer.
- Retake Anytime: If you need to take the test again, there’s no waiting time. You can try as often as you want.
- Well-Known Test: IELTS has been around for a long time and is known for being fair and reliable.
- More centers: There are many test centers across Nepal, even in small towns.
Cons of IELTS
- Wait Longer for Results: It takes 3–13 days to get your results, depending on whether you take it on paper or computer.
- Some Bias Possible: Since humans score parts of the test, results might not always feel 100% fair.
- Two-Day Test: The speaking test is often on a different day from the other sections.
- Slightly More Expensive: IELTS costs a bit more than some other tests in many places.
- Limited Test Dates: In some areas, test dates are not offered very often.
Pros and Cons of PTE
Pros of PTE
- Fast Results : Get your results in just 1–2 days .
- Fair Scoring : Scored by AI , which means no human bias.
- One-Day Test : Finish all parts of the test in one sitting.
- Free Score Reports : Send your scores to as many schools or offices as you want—no extra cost.
- Shorter Test Time : The whole test takes about 2 hours .
- More Test Dates : Where centers exist, you can often find a date that works for you.
Cons of PTE
- Fewer Centers : Not available in many small towns or rural areas.
- Tech Problems Possible : Computer issues may affect your performance.
- Noisy Environment : Many people take the test at once, which can be distracting.
- Pronunciation Matters : AI may not understand certain accents well.
- Must Wait to Retake : You must wait at least 5 days before taking the test again.
- Feels Less Personal: Some students find speaking into a microphone stressful or impersonal.
2025 Updates – What's New in IELTS & PTE This Year
IELTS 2025 Updates
- Better Computer Testing : All test centers in Nepal now offer computer-based testing with an improved system.
- Shorter Listening Test : The number of questions has been reduced from 40 to 36, but the test still checks your skills well.
- Spell-Check Tool Added : Now available in computer-based tests to help with writing.
- Detailed Score Reports : You get more information about your performance in different areas.
- New Practice Tools : Official AI practice assistant gives you personal feedback to improve.
PTE 2025 Updates
- Improved AI Scoring : More accurate results, especially for speaking and writing.
- Test at Home Option : You can now take PTE Academic Online from home. Available in Nepal with stronger security.
- Faster Test Time : The test is shorter, but still measures your English well.
- Better Score Feedback : You get more details about your performance and where to improve.
- Mobile-Friendly : Easier to prepare and book your test using the mobile app.
IELTS vs. PTE – Summary Table (For Quick Decision)
Criteria | Choose IELTS If… | Choose PTE If… |
You want a traditional experience | ✅ | ❌ |
You need fast results | ❌ | ✅ |
You struggle with accents | ✅ | ❌ |
You’re comfortable with computers | ❌ | ✅ |
You want to avoid human speaking tests | ❌ | ✅ |
You need the widest possible acceptance | ✅ | ❌ |
You prefer testing all skills in one day | ❌ | ✅ |
Conclusion
There is no universally “best” English proficiency test—only the best test for your specific There is no single best English test. The right one for you depends on your needs, skills, and goals. IELTS offers a traditional testing style with a face-to-face speaking test. It is accepted by nearly all universities and immigration offices. It has been around for many years and is trusted worldwide. PTE is fully computer-based, gives results in 1–2 days, and uses AI scoring with no human bias. It is becoming more popular for study and migration. Think about what works best for you before making your choice.
Before You Decide:
There is no universally “best” English proficiency test—only the best test for your specific There is no single best English test. The right one for you depends on your needs, skills, and goals. IELTS offers a traditional testing style with a face-to-face speaking test. It is accepted by nearly all universities and immigration offices. It has been around for many years and is trusted worldwide. PTE is fully computer-based, gives results in 1–2 days, and uses AI scoring with no human bias. It is becoming more popular for study and migration. Think about what works best for you before making your choice.
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FAQs About IELTS vs. PTE in 2025
Which is easier – IELTS or PTE?
Neither test is easier overall. It depends on your skills and style.
IELTS may feel easier if you’re good at speaking face-to-face and like traditional exams.
PTE may suit you better if you’re comfortable with computers and like fast results.
Which test is better for Australian PR?
Both IELTS and PTE are accepted for Australian permanent residency in 2025.
The Australian government treats them equally.
PTE gives faster results and more test dates.
IELTS has more test centers. Choose based on what works best for you.
Can I convert my PTE score to IELTS equivalent?
Yes, there are unofficial score comparison charts.
For example, a PTE score of 65 is about the same as an IELTS score of 6.5.
But always check which test your school or visa office accepts. You cannot use converted scores officially.
Do universities prefer IELTS or PTE?
Most universities accept both tests equally.
Some programs—like medicine, law, or arts—may still prefer IELTS.
Technical and science courses often accept PTE without any problem.
Always confirm with your specific university before deciding on a test.
Which test is more suitable for non-native English speakers from Nepal?
It depends on your personal strengths, not where you’re from.
Many Nepalese students feel more comfortable with IELTS because of its speaking section and British English style.
Others do well on PTE because they are used to computers and like the structure.
Try practice tests for both and see which one suits you better.
Can I prepare for both tests simultaneously?
Yes, many English skills are the same for both tests.
Learning vocabulary, grammar, and speaking helps for either one.
But each test has different formats. So, it’s best to pick one and focus on that before the exam.