IELTS vs PTE: Which English Test Should You Take in 2025?

Why Your English Score Matters

For most Australian visa subclasses, English proficiency is not optional. It affects your eligibility, your points score for skilled migration, and even your chances of state nomination. Achieving a higher English level can add up to 20 points to your SkillSelect EOI, which can be the difference between receiving an invitation and waiting indefinitely.

The four English levels recognised for Australian migration are:

Functional English: The baseline for many visa subclasses. No points awarded.
Competent English: The minimum for most skilled visas. No additional points but required for eligibility.
Proficient English: Adds 10 points.
Superior English: Adds 20 points.

Test Format Comparison

IELTS Academic

IELTS (International English Language Testing System) has been the traditional choice for migration applicants for decades. The test has four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. The Speaking test is conducted face-to-face with a human examiner, while Listening and Reading are multiple-choice and short-answer based. Writing requires two essays: a data description task and an argumentative essay.

Total test time is approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes. The Speaking test may be scheduled on a different day from the other three sections.

PTE Academic

PTE (Pearson Test of English) Academic is a fully computer-based test. All four skills (Speaking, Writing, Listening, and Reading) are tested at a computer terminal, including the Speaking section, which requires you to speak into a microphone. The test uses integrated tasks, meaning a single question may test multiple skills simultaneously. For example, you might listen to a lecture and then write a summary, which tests both listening and writing.

Total test time is approximately 2 hours, and all sections are completed in a single sitting.

Scoring Comparison

IELTS scores each section on a band scale from 0 to 9 in 0.5 increments. PTE scores each section from 10 to 90. The Department of Home Affairs publishes equivalency tables. Here are the key benchmarks for migration:

Competent English

IELTS: 6.0 in each section. PTE: 50 in each section.

Proficient English (10 points)

IELTS: 7.0 in each section. PTE: 65 in each section.

Superior English (20 points)

IELTS: 8.0 in each section. PTE: 79 in each section.

Which Test Is Easier?

This is the question everyone asks, and the honest answer is that it depends on your strengths and weaknesses. Neither test is objectively easier. However, there are patterns in which types of test-takers tend to perform better on each.

PTE May Suit You Better If...

You are comfortable with computers. The entire PTE test is completed on a computer, including speaking into a microphone. If you are used to typing quickly and are comfortable with computer-based interfaces, this can be an advantage.
You need a fast result. PTE results are typically available within one to two business days, compared to 13 days for IELTS.
You have a strong accent. The PTE Speaking section is scored by an AI algorithm. Some test-takers find this more consistent than human examiners, though others find it less forgiving of non-standard pronunciation.
Writing is your weak point.PTE's writing section is shorter and carries less weight in the overall score compared to IELTS. The integrated scoring model means strong performance in other areas can partially compensate.

IELTS May Suit You Better If...

You prefer face-to-face communication. The IELTS Speaking test is a conversation with a real person. Many test-takers find this more natural and less stressful than speaking into a microphone in a room full of other candidates.
You are a strong writer. IELTS gives significant weight to the Writing section, and strong writers can score well. The tasks are straightforward: describe data and write an essay.
You prefer paper-based tests. While IELTS now offers a computer-delivered option, the paper-based version is still available in many locations. Some people simply think and write better on paper.
You have experience with IELTS. If you have taken IELTS before and are familiar with the format, switching to PTE means learning a new test format from scratch. Familiarity with the test structure can be worth half a band score.

Cost and Availability

As of 2025, the IELTS test fee in Australia is approximately $410 AUD. The PTE Academic fee is approximately $410 AUD as well, though prices vary slightly by location and booking time. Both tests are widely available across Australian cities and major international cities.

PTE offers more frequent test dates and greater flexibility in scheduling. In most cities, you can book a PTE test within a few days, whereas IELTS may require booking two to four weeks in advance, particularly during peak periods.

Test Validity

Both IELTS and PTE results are valid for three years from the test date for Australian migration purposes (reduced from the previous validity period). Ensure your results will still be valid at the time you lodge your visa application, not just at the time you submit your EOI.

Other Accepted Tests

While IELTS and PTE are by far the most popular choices, the Department of Home Affairs also accepts TOEFL iBT, Cambridge C1 Advanced, and the Occupational English Test (OET) for certain visa subclasses. OET is particularly relevant for healthcare professionals, as it tests English in a clinical context.

Practical Tips for Test Preparation

Take a diagnostic test first. Both IELTS and PTE offer free or low-cost practice tests. Take one of each before committing to a test. Your performance on the practice tests will give you a clear indication of which format suits you better.
Focus on your weakest section. For migration, you need to meet the minimum score in every section. A score of 90 in Listening does not compensate for a 58 in Speaking. Spend the majority of your preparation time on your weakest skill.
Use official preparation materials. The IELTS and PTE websites both offer free practice resources. Third-party materials vary widely in quality, so start with the official resources before branching out.
Simulate test conditions. Practice under timed conditions in a quiet environment. The pressure of a real test can significantly affect performance if you are not accustomed to working under time constraints.
Book strategically. If you are aiming for Superior English (IELTS 8.0 or PTE 79), give yourself time for a second attempt. Book your first test at least three months before you need the result, so you have time to rebook if necessary.
Consider a preparation course. If self-study is not producing results, a structured course with feedback from an experienced teacher can help you identify and correct specific weaknesses.

Making Your Decision

There is no universally correct answer to the IELTS vs PTE question. The best test is the one where you can consistently achieve your target score. Take practice tests for both, assess your strengths honestly, and choose the format that plays to those strengths. If you are still unsure, consult with a migration agent or English test preparation specialist who can advise based on your specific language profile.