Skip to content

Tests & English · Guide

IELTS vs TOEFL vs PTE: Which English Test?

Most universities accept all three major English tests — so pick the one whose format suits how you perform, not the one you heard of first.

By the Tutopiya counselling team · Updated

Almost every course in our catalog asks for proof of English, and the course pages list the exact scores — typically IELTS, TOEFL iBT and PTE Academic options for the same course. Since universities treat them as equivalent, the smart question isn't which test is 'best', but which format lets you show your English at its best.

The three tests at a glance

  • IELTS Academic — scored in bands 0–9; speaking test is a live conversation with a human examiner; writing is typed or handwritten depending on version
  • TOEFL iBT — scored 0–120; fully computer-based; speaking answers are recorded at a screen, not spoken to a person
  • PTE Academic — scored 10–90; fully computer-based with AI scoring; typically the fastest results turnaround of the three

How to choose between them

Pick by your strengths and nerves. If you're more comfortable talking to a person than a microphone, IELTS's face-to-face speaking section usually feels fairer. If typing is faster than your handwriting and you prefer a fully computer-based experience, TOEFL or PTE will suit you better. If you need results quickly to hit a deadline, PTE's turnaround is typically the shortest.

Availability matters too: check test-centre locations and dates in your city before committing, especially in exam season when slots fill.

Scores, validity and visa rules

Each course page in our catalog lists the exact scores required — a typical undergraduate ask is IELTS 6.0–6.5 overall with minimum band scores, with the TOEFL and PTE equivalents alongside. Scores from all three tests are generally valid for two years.

One country-specific wrinkle: for a UK student visa, the test may need to be a UKVI-approved version — same test, administered under approved conditions. Book the right version from the start; your counsellor will confirm which one your course and visa need.

Preparing without wasting money

  • Take one full practice test cold to find your baseline before paying for anything
  • Train the format, not just the language — most points lost are format mistakes, not English mistakes
  • Book the real test only when practice scores sit comfortably above your target
  • Ask your counsellor about English test discounts — reduced fees on IELTS, TOEFL and Duolingo are part of Tutopiya's student perks

Frequently asked questions

Which English test is easiest?

None is reliably easier — they measure the same skills through different formats, and universities set equivalent bars for each. Students score highest on the format that matches their strengths: live conversation favours IELTS, typing and computer delivery favour TOEFL or PTE. A practice test in each format answers the question for you personally.

Can I skip the English test entirely?

Sometimes. Universities may waive the requirement if you completed your recent education in English — for example, some accept a strong IGCSE or O-Level English grade as evidence. Waivers are course-specific and never guaranteed, so have your counsellor check the actual policy for each university on your shortlist before you decide not to book a test.

What if I miss the required score by a little?

Options usually exist: retake the test (most students improve on a second sitting), or ask about pre-sessional English courses, which several universities run to bring students to the required level before the degree starts. A narrow miss is a solvable problem, not the end of the application.

More guides

Applications

How to Write a Personal Statement

The one document where you speak for yourself — here's the structure that works, what admissions tutors actually look for, and the clichés to cut.

Applications

Applying With Predicted Grades

You don't need final results to apply abroad — conditional offers let you secure your place months before results day. Here's how the timeline works.

Money

What Studying Abroad Really Costs

Tuition is only the headline. Total cost is tuition × years, plus living costs, visa requirements and the fees nobody mentions — here's how to budget it properly.