The Question We Get Asked Every Week
"Should I take IELTS or PTE?"
It comes up in almost every consultation where an English language test is required. Both are internationally recognised, both are accepted by Australian, UK, Canadian, and New Zealand immigration authorities, and both test the same four skills: Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking.
But they are very different tests — and the right choice depends on your situation, your strengths, and your timeline.
What Is IELTS?
IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is the world's most widely recognised English language test. It is jointly owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge Assessment English.
There are two versions:
The Speaking test is conducted face-to-face with a human examiner. Results are typically available within 3–5 business days (online) or 13 days (paper-based).
What Is PTE Academic?
PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English Academic) is a fully computer-based test. There is no human examiner — your Speaking responses are recorded and scored by AI.
Results are typically available within 48 hours — sometimes faster. This is one of PTE's biggest advantages.
PTE Academic is accepted for most immigration and university purposes. There is no separate "General Training" version — PTE Academic covers both study and migration purposes.
Key Differences at a Glance
| IELTS | PTE Academic | |
|---|---|---|
| Speaking test | Face-to-face with examiner | Computer-recorded, AI-scored |
| Results turnaround | 3–13 days | 24–48 hours |
| Test format | Mix of paper and computer | Fully computer-based |
| Score format | Band scores (0–9) | Points (10–90) |
| Accepted for Australia PR | Yes | Yes |
| Accepted for UK visas | Yes | Yes |
| Accepted for Canada Express Entry | Yes (General Training) | Yes |
| Accepted for NZ visas | Yes | Yes |
| Test duration | ~2 hours 45 minutes | ~2 hours |
Which Test Is Easier?
Neither test is objectively easier — but most people find one suits them better than the other.
You may find PTE easier if:
You may find IELTS easier if:
Score Equivalencies
The scoring systems are different, but here is a rough guide:
| IELTS Band | PTE Score |
|---|---|
| 5.0 | 36–42 |
| 5.5 | 43–49 |
| 6.0 | 50–57 |
| 6.5 | 58–64 |
| 7.0 | 65–72 |
| 7.5 | 73–78 |
| 8.0 | 79–84 |
Note: Score equivalencies are approximate and can vary by institution and visa type. Always check the specific requirements for your destination.
What Score Do You Need?
Requirements vary by destination and purpose:
Australia:
United Kingdom:
Canada:
New Zealand:
Our Recommendation for Most Kenyan Applicants
For immigration purposes — particularly Australia and New Zealand — PTE Academic is worth serious consideration. The 48-hour results turnaround is a genuine advantage when you are working to a visa deadline, and many of our clients find the computer-based format less stressful than a face-to-face speaking test.
For Canada Express Entry, IELTS General Training is the more established option and is what most applicants use.
For UK visas, both are accepted — choose based on your personal preference.
If you are applying to a specific university, check their requirements first — some institutions still prefer IELTS.
We Offer In-Person Preparation for Both
At our Kericho head office, we run in-person preparation classes for both IELTS and PTE Academic. Classes cover all four modules, include mock tests under exam conditions, and are tailored to the specific score requirements of your destination country.
We also offer one-on-one coaching for students who need focused attention on a specific module — particularly Speaking and Writing.
Not sure which test to take? Book a free consultation and we will look at your situation, your destination, and your timeline — and give you a straight recommendation.
Free Consultation
Ready to take the next step?
Speak with one of our immigration advisors. We'll assess your situation and give you a clear, honest path forward — at no cost.
