English test
Which test to sit, why the score matters, and how to prepare for each skill.
Which English test to sit
All three are widely accepted, but they suit different people. Check your university's accepted list and minimum scores before you book anything.
| Feature | IELTS Academic | TOEFL iBT | PTE Academic |
|---|---|---|---|
| Format | Paper or computer; speaking is a live interview | Computer; speaking is recorded | Computer only; scored by machine |
| Sections | Listening, reading, writing, speaking | Reading, listening, speaking, writing | Speaking and writing, reading, listening, mixed together |
| Scale | Bands 0 to 9, in half bands | 0 to 120 | 10 to 90 |
| Length | About 2 hours 45 minutes | About 2 hours | About 2 hours |
| Suits you if | You would rather speak to a person than a microphone | You are comfortable with lecture-style English and typing | You want a fast result and a fully computer-based test |
Formats change. Confirm on the official IELTS, ETS and Pearson sites.
Why the score matters more than you think
Admission
Most universities set a minimum overall score and, often, a minimum per section. One weak section can sink an otherwise strong application.
Visa
Several student visa routes only accept particular tests. Sitting the wrong one can cost you the application, not just the fee.
Your first term
The score is a rough proxy for whether you can follow a lecture and write an assignment from week one, which is what it is really for.
Funding
Some scholarships set their own language threshold, usually above the university's.
Preparing, by skill
Listening
Practise across British, American and Australian accents, and take notes while you listen rather than after.
Reading
Work to the clock. Skim for the argument first, then go back for the details the questions ask about.
Writing
Learn the task types cold, plan for five minutes before writing, and get feedback on every practice essay.
Speaking
Record yourself and listen back. Answer aloud daily, ideally to a person rather than a screen.
Test formats here are general guidance, not the requirements of any particular university. Every university publishes its own, and theirs is the one that counts.