BlueZone / IELTS / IELTS vs PTE vs TOEFL
IELTS vs PTE vs TOEFL: which test should you take?
All three are widely accepted, but they differ in format, marking and price. Choose by acceptance first, then by how you perform.
Last reviewed 30 September 2026. Figures are checked against the sources listed at the bottom of the page.
Talk to a counsellorSide-by-side comparison
| Feature | IELTS Academic | PTE Academic | TOEFL iBT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delivery | Computer in a centre; Speaking with an examiner | Computer in a centre; AI scored | Internet-based at a centre or at home, depending on region |
| Speaking | Face-to-face with an examiner | Speak to a computer | Speak to a computer |
| Score scale | Bands 0–9 | 10–90 | New 1–6 scale from 21 January 2026; a comparable 0–120 score is also shown for a two-year transition |
| Price in Pakistan | Rs 75,600 to 76,240 (British Council) | About US$240 reported; check Pearson | Set by ETS in US dollars; check the ETS page |
| Results | 1–2 days (computer) | Typically within about two days | Faster reporting introduced in 2026; check ETS |
| Validity | 2 years | 2 years | 2 years, with MyBest scores combining sections across tests |
| Best for | UK and Commonwealth destinations and the widest visa acceptance | Students who prefer computer-only marking and fast results | US and Canada universities that prefer TOEFL |
PTE and TOEFL fees change. The PTE figure is from industry reports and Pakistani test-prep sites, not from a Pearson table that Pearson publishes for Pakistan. Always confirm at checkout.
What changed in TOEFL (2026)
- From 21 January 2026 ETS reports TOEFL iBT scores on a 1 to 6 scale in half-point steps, aligned to CEFR, with four section scores and an overall score.
- The overall score is the average of the four sections, rounded to the nearest half band.
- For two years, reports also show a comparable 0 to 120 score so institutions can adjust.
- Reading and Listening use a multistage adaptive design, so later questions adapt to how you perform.
- MyBest scores combine your best section scores from tests taken in the past two years.
| New scale | Approximate legacy total (0–120) |
|---|---|
| 6.0 | 114 and above |
| 5.5 | 107 and above |
| 5.0 | 95 and above |
| 4.5 | 86 and above |
| 4.0 | 72 and above |
| 3.5 | 58 and above |
ETS conversion table for tests taken before 21 January 2026. Confirm with each institution which scale it reads.
Which test does your destination accept?
| Destination | Safe choice | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| United Kingdom | IELTS (and IELTS for UKVI where required) | Universities accept several tests, but a few visa routes need an approved SELT. Check your CAS conditions |
| Australia | IELTS, PTE Academic, TOEFL and others | The government expects tests taken in person for visa purposes. Check Home Affairs |
| Canada | IELTS Academic or General, plus others depending on the programme and route | Check your school and IRCC |
| United States | TOEFL or IELTS; also Duolingo at some schools | Each university sets its own policy |
| Dubai and UAE | IELTS, TOEFL, EmSAT or university tests | Each university sets its own policy |
| Italy | IELTS 6.0 or an MOI certificate, depending on course | Italian-taught degrees need Italian instead |
| France | IELTS or TOEFL for English-taught; DELF/TCF for French-taught | Check each programme |
| South Korea | TOPIK for Korean-taught; IELTS or TOEFL for English-taught | TOPIK also affects part-time work hours |
| Cyprus and Lithuania | IELTS, with MOI accepted by some universities | Check each university |
| New Zealand and Ireland | IELTS and others | Check the provider page and immigration rules |
How to choose in one afternoon
- List your target institutionsOpen each one’s English requirement page and note the accepted tests and scores.
- Check the visa ruleAsk whether your route needs an approved test or in-person delivery.
- Take two timed practice testsOne IELTS and one PTE or TOEFL. Compare your scores and stress levels.
- Pick one and book earlyLeave room for a retake. See booking guide.
Frequently asked questions
Is PTE easier than IELTS?
Some students find PTE more predictable because it is computer marked, and others miss the human examiner. Difficulty is personal. Try a practice test of each.
Is TOEFL accepted in the UK?
Many UK universities accept TOEFL for admissions. Visa routes that need a UKVI-approved test do not, so check your CAS conditions.
Do universities accept PTE?
Many do in Australia, New Zealand, Ireland and the UK. Always check the university’s English policy.
Which is cheapest in Pakistan?
Prices are close and move with exchange rates. IELTS with the British Council is Rs 75,600 to 76,240 from 9 June 2026. PTE and TOEFL are priced in dollars. Compare at checkout.
Can I use Duolingo?
Some universities accept it, especially in the US, but it is not accepted for most visas. Check each institution.
Sources and how we verify
Checked on 30 September 2026. This page is general information, not legal, immigration, medical or financial advice. Rules, fees and deadlines change, so confirm with the official body before you pay or apply.
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