Scoring Comparison Between PTE And IELTS
- 4 min read
Comparison table for test takers who are targeting for study or permanent residency goals:
| IELTS Band | PTE Academic Score |
|---|---|
| 4.5 | 23 |
| 5.0 | 29 |
| 5.5 | 36 |
| 6.0 | 46 |
| 6.5 | 56 |
| 7.0 | 66 |
| 7.5 | 76 |
| 8.0 | 84 |
| 8.5 | 89 |
| 9.0 | N/A |
Provided competency levels are based on various official English language standards studies and this helps the immigration and educational bodies to properly understand the skills.
Variations between the Scoring Systems of PTE and IELTS
- This exam uses a 10–90 granular scale for understanding the language skills.
- It was a fully AI-based scoring test, but with recent updates of 2024, this test also introduced human checking for Speaking tasks like "Describe Image" and "Retell Lecture".
- Adding to this, newer updates released in July 2025, now includes 5 more tasks that are evaluated by humans for content for tasks like "Summarize Group Discussion" , "Respond to a Situation" , "Summarize Written Text" , "Essay" and "Summarize Spoken Text" which now means – 14% of the test is evaluated by humans and rest 86% is still AI-based scorings.
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Chcek your PTE ScoreTest Format & Experience
| Feature | IELTS | PTE |
|---|---|---|
| Test Mode | Paper or Computer Based | Fully Computer-Based |
| Duration | 2 Hours 45 mins | 2 Hours 15 mins |
| Speaking | Face-to-face with human evaluator | Recorded responses |
| Scoring | Human + Computer | 14% Human + 86% AI |
| Result Time | 3–5 Days (Computer) | Usually 2 working days |
Which is the easy-to-crack test?
- People who are accustomed with computer usage.
- Who depend on methods and templated responses.
- Who require results immediately.
- Test takers who are comfortable with human interaction.
- People who are accustomed with older exam methods.
- Aspirants targeting UK or broader global eligibility.
Acceptance & Use
- This test is accepted by nearly 12,500+ educational facilities worldwide.
- Primarily for UK, New Zealand, and extended academic recognitions.
Migration & Visa Implications
- IELTS and PTE are both eligible tests by the Department of Home Affairs.
- Scoring criteria varies depending on the type of visa
- IELTS General Training was usually accepted till 2024.
- But now even PTE Core has been added in eligible tests lists for immigration (Since 2024).
Final Tips for Candidates
Know your strong areas: If you are fluent in rapid speaking, then IELTS may be suitable. But, if you are a person who is comfortable with structured pattern and immediate results, and regular PTE practice, then PTE may be the right test for you.
Confirm with your institution/visa criteria: Some universities or visa programs require some minimum scores in each of the skills. So, take care of those scorings.
Stay up-to-date: PTE's scoring changes implemented recently (involvement of human review) can affect your preparation strategies, so, prepare yourself accordingly.
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