English tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE are important for students planning to study locally or abroad. These tests assess your academic English skills and are commonly required by universities. Among them, IELTS is especially popular and widely accepted in Malaysia, Singapore, and many other countries. This comparison helps you understand their differences and choose the one that best fits your goals.
| Parameters | TOEFL | ★★★★★ IELTS (Recommended) | PTE |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Definition |
A test that measures English proficiency, mostly used for
academic purposes. |
A globally recognised test of English proficiency for
academic and immigration purposes. |
A computer-based English language proficiency
test for non-native speakers, focusing on academic
English. |
|
Acceptability
in Different
Countries |
Accepted in over 160 countries, especially popular in the US;
over 12,500 institutions recognise it |
Accepted globally, especially in the UK, Australia,
Canada, New Zealand, USA, and Europe |
Increasing acceptance in countries like Australia,
Canada, New Zealand, UK, and the USA |
|
Duration
(Approximate) |
3 hours |
2 hours 45 minutes |
2 hours |
|
Format |
4 sections: 1. Reading, 2. Listening,
3. Speaking, 4. Writing |
4 sections: 1. Listening, 2. Reading,
3. Writing, 4. Speaking |
3 sections:
1. Listening, 2. Reading, 3. Writing & Speaking |
|
Mode of Examination |
Computer-based |
Paper-based or computer-based |
Computer-based |
|
Types of
Answers |
Only MCQs |
Both Short Answers & MCQs |
Both Short Answers & MCQs |
|
Test Evaluation |
Artificial Intelligence |
Artificial Intelligence and Human Evaluation |
Artificial Intelligence |
|
Score Range |
0-120 |
1-9 |
10-90 |
|
Good Score |
100+ |
6.5+ |
75+ |
|
Validity |
2 years |
2 years |
2 years |
|
Difficulty Level |
Moderate to High, multiple-choice format makes it more
structured |
Moderate to High, may vary due to human assessment
in Speaking and Writing |
Moderate to high, fast-paced computer-based
scoring with no waiting time. |
|
Ease |
Easy |
Easier |
Easiest |
|
Meant For |
Primarily for students applying to universities, especially in
the US |
Students, professionals, and migrants applying to
English-speaking countries or jobs needing English
skills |
Primarily for students applying for higher studies
or immigration to English-speaking countries |
|
Result time |
1 week |
13 days (paper-based), 3-5 days (computer-based) |
2-5 days |
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