Among the most widely recognized English proficiency tests include the Pearson Test of English and International English Language Testing System. Both IELTS and PTE serve similar purposes-more or less-attesting to scores that facilitate academic admission, professional certifications, and immigration requirements-but they differ in their format, scoring, and test experience. The following will discuss whether one test is more challenging than the other and provide examples in order to help you choose which may best fit you.
PTE is a computer-based test, and it aims to test the candidate’s English skills in four major areas: speaking, writing, listening, and reading. It focuses on the real-life usage of language, and the results come in 48 hours.
International English Language Testing System (IELTS)
IELTS also administers tests in paper-based and computer-based forms. Its test is precisely the same four skills as that of the PTE but has the traditional format with face-to-face interviews during speaking. Results usually come after 13 working days.
Test Format Comparison
Test Component
PTE Structure
Duration
Speaking & Writing
77–93 minutes
– Personal Introduction (not scored)
–
– Read Aloud
–
– Repeat Sentence
–
– Describe Image
–
– Re-tell Lecture
–
– Answer Short Questions
–
– Summarize Written Text
–
– Essay Writing
–
Reading
32–41 minutes
– Multiple-choice Questions
– Re-order Paragraphs
–
– Fill in the Blanks
–
Listening
45–57 minutes
– Summarize Spoken Text
– Multiple-choice Questions
–
– Fill in the Blanks
–
– Highlight Correct Summary
–
– Select Missing Word
–
– Write from Dictation
–
IELTS Component
Description
Duration
Listening
– Four sections with a variety of accents
30 minutes
– Each section has 10 questions
Reading
– Three sections, varying in difficulty
60 minutes
– Mix of question types (e.g., multiple choice, matching, short answer)
Writing
– Task 1: Describe a graph, table, or diagram
60 minutes
– Task 2: Write an essay in response to a point of view, argument, or problem
Speaking
– Face-to-face interview with an examiner
11–14 minutes
– Divided into three parts:
1. Introduction and interview
2. Long turn (speaking on a given topic for 1-2 minutes)
3. Two-way discussion on related topics
Speaking Task Comparison
PTE: In the “Describe Image” task, you might see a chart and have 40 seconds to speak about it. This tests your ability to interpret visual information and articulate your thoughts clearly.
IELTS: In the speaking interview, you might discuss your hometown for one minute and then answer follow-up questions. This tests your ability to speak spontaneously and engage in conversation.
Writing Task Comparison
PTE: You may be asked to summarize a written text in one sentence or write an essay on a given topic, which can sometimes be more straightforward.
IELTS: Task 1 might require you to describe a bar graph, while Task 2 involves writing a more formal essay. This format might be more challenging for those who struggle with structured academic writing.
Conclusion
Whether PTE is easier or tough than IELTS depends on the strengths and choice one has.
So, if you are comfortable with computer-based tests and want diverse types of questions that resemble real life, then PTE may become easy for you.
If you prefer face-to-face interaction and have experience writing in the traditional system of academics, then IELTS will be more suitable for you.
Both tests have their respective merits, and the right one should be chosen according to your comfort and preparation and specific goals. After all, preparation for either test is required to reach the desired scores. So, assess your strengths, practice well, and make a proper selection of the test according to your skills and preference!
