IELTS or PTE: Which Test Should You Take for Canada, Australia and the UK?
Almost every student planning to study in Canada, Australia or the UK asks the same question first: should I take IELTS or PTE? Both are accepted by a large number of universities and colleges, and both test the same four skills. The right choice depends on where you are applying and on how you perform best.
What the two tests have in common
- Both test Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking.
- Both are taken on a computer in India. IELTS moved fully to computer-delivered testing in India in September 2026.
- Both are widely accepted for study in Canada, Australia and the UK, but each institution sets its own rules.
The main differences
| IELTS Academic | PTE Academic | |
|---|---|---|
| Scores | Bands from 0 to 9, in half bands | Scores from 10 to 90 |
| Speaking | Face-to-face conversation with an examiner | Recorded into a microphone and scored by computer |
| Marking | Writing and Speaking marked by trained examiners | Scored automatically |
| Results | Usually within a few days | Usually within about two days |
| Task style | Separate sections for each skill | Many tasks score two skills at once |
Which test suits you?
IELTS may suit you if
- You speak more naturally with a person than into a microphone.
- You write well-organised essays and can develop ideas in depth.
- Your chosen university lists IELTS but not PTE.
PTE may suit you if
- You are comfortable with computers and with fast-paced, short tasks.
- You need your result quickly for an application deadline.
- You speak fluently and clearly, even if not in long, complex answers.
First, check what your institution accepts
Before you book either test, open the English-language requirements page of every university or college on your list. Note the test, the minimum overall score and any minimum for each skill. If one of your choices accepts only one test, that decides it for you.
Still not sure?
Take a short practice of each. Many students find within one session which format feels easier. At Literatus Academy you can book a free demo class for IELTS or PTE, at our Sector 6 campus in Karnal or online, and our trainer will help you decide based on your target country and course.