If you’re planning to migrate to Australia, proving your English language proficiency is a crucial step. Among the most widely accepted tests are the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) and the PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English Academic).
With both options available, many applicants face the common question: IELTS vs PTE – which is better for Australian migration?
In this blog, we’ll explore the key differences between IELTS vs PTE and help you choose the test that best aligns with your migration goals.
1. Accepted by Australian Immigration
Let’s clear this up first: Both IELTS and PTE are accepted by the Australian Department of Home Affairs for all key visa categories. This includes skilled migration (Subclass 189, 190, 491), student visas, and permanent residency applications.
So, whether you take IELTS General Training or PTE Academic, both are valid for migration purposes—as long as you meet the score requirements for your specific visa type.
🔍 Tip: Always verify the exact score needed for your visa subclass on the official Department of Home Affairs website.
2. Test Format Comparison
Here’s how IELTS and PTE differ in structure and delivery:
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Test Type:
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IELTS is available in both paper-based and computer-based formats.
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PTE Academic is fully computer-based from start to finish.
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Sections Covered:
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IELTS tests four individual skills: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.
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PTE also assesses the same four skills but often combines them—for instance, speaking and writing are done together.
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Speaking Section:
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IELTS involves a face-to-face interview with a human examiner.
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PTE has candidates speak into a microphone, and responses are evaluated by AI.
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Test Duration:
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IELTS takes around 2 hours and 45 minutes.
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PTE is shorter—around 2 hours.
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Your decision here will depend on personal preference. If you’re comfortable interacting with a person, IELTS may feel more natural. If you prefer a tech-driven experience with minimal human interaction, PTE is likely a better fit.
3. Scoring System
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IELTS uses a band score system ranging from 0 to 9 for each skill and an overall band score.
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PTE Academic scores on a scale from 10 to 90, using AI-based evaluation.
Both tests provide score reports that are accepted by Australian immigration. For comparison:
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A PTE score of 65 is roughly equivalent to an IELTS band score of 7.0.
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A PTE score of 79+ is generally equal to an IELTS 8.0, which can help earn more points in the points-tested migration system.
4. Test Availability & Result Timelines
If you’re looking for flexibility and speed, here’s what you need to know:
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Test Scheduling & Availability:
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IELTS is widely available worldwide, but dates can vary based on your location and test format.
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PTE typically offers greater scheduling flexibility with frequent test slots due to its fully computerised system.
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Results Delivery Time:
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IELTS results are available within 3–5 days for the computer-based test and up to 13 days for the paper-based version.
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PTE generally delivers results within 1 to 3 days, making it a faster option.
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If you’re on a tight deadline, PTE might give you a helpful edge.
5. Ease of Scoring – Which One Is Easier?
This depends on your personal strengths and preferences:
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Some candidates find PTE easier to score well in due to its AI-based, consistent evaluation.
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Others feel more confident with IELTS, especially if they prefer traditional writing tasks or speaking to a human examiner.
If your English proficiency is strong and you’re tech-savvy, PTE might work in your favor. If you prefer conventional testing and interaction, IELTS could be more suitable.
6. Test Preparation & Resources
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IELTS has a longer history and more global reach, so it offers a wider variety of preparation resources—from books and courses to mock tests.
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PTE, although newer, has tech-friendly practice tools, AI-scored mock tests, and interactive learning platforms that cater well to self-learners.
Both tests have official and third-party preparation materials. Choose based on your learning style and preferred study tools.
Final Verdict: Which One Is Better?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to IELTS vs PTE—it really depends on your personal strengths, comfort level, and visa timeline. Here’s a quick summary to help you decide:
✅ Choose IELTS if:
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You’re more comfortable with traditional test formats.
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You prefer face-to-face speaking with a real examiner.
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You want the option of paper-based or computer-based testing.
✅ Choose PTE if:
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You need faster results.
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You’re confident with computer-based exams.
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You prefer AI-based, objective scoring with minimal human bias.
Conclusion
Both IELTS and PTE are excellent choices for Australian migration. The key is to pick the one that best fits your personal strengths, test preferences, and visa goals.
Need help choosing the right test or understanding the score requirements for your visa? Our expert consultants are here to guide you through every step of your migration journey.
📞 Have questions? Contact us today for personalised guidance.
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