IELTS vs PTE: Which Exam Is Easier and Which One Should Students Choose?

Choosing between IELTS and PTE Academic is one of the most common dilemmas faced by students planning to study abroad. Both exams assess English language proficiency, are widely accepted by universities and immigration authorities, and serve the same purpose. Yet, many students ask the same question:

Which exam is easier – IELTS or PTE?

The answer depends on your strengths, test-taking style, and comfort with technology. This article breaks it down clearly to help you make the right choice.

Overview: IELTS and PTE at a Glance

IELTS (International English Language Testing System)

IELTS is one of the oldest and most trusted English proficiency tests, jointly managed by British Council, IDP, and Cambridge.

• Widely accepted in the UK, Canada, Australia, USA, and Europe

• Available in Academic and General Training

• Human examiners for speaking

• Paper-based and computer-based options

PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English)

PTE Academic is a fully computer-based English test powered by AI scoring, designed for fast results and consistency.

• Accepted by universities in the UK, Australia, Canada, USA, and Europe

• Entire test conducted on a computer

• AI-based scoring

• Faster results (often within 48 hours)

Difficulty Level: IELTS vs PTE

There is no officially easier test, but students often find one easier than the other based on their personal strengths.

Reading & Listening

• IELTS:
  Uses longer passages and traditional question types. Listening requires multitasking and spelling accuracy.

• PTE:
  Shorter tasks, more integrated, but requires quick reading and fast responses.

? Students with good concentration prefer IELTS; fast readers prefer PTE.

Speaking

• IELTS:
  Face-to-face interview with an examiner. Some students feel nervous; others perform better with human interaction.

• PTE:
  Speaking into a microphone. No human judgment, but clarity, pronunciation, and fluency matter.

? Students comfortable with computers often find PTE easier.

Writing

• IELTS:
  Requires structured essays and formal writing styles.

• PTE:
  Shorter written responses and summaries, fewer long essays.

? Students weak in essay writing often prefer PTE.

Scoring System Comparison

Which Exam Is Easier? (Honest Answer)

IELTS May Be Easier If:

• You prefer human interaction

• You are comfortable with essay writing

• You have strong vocabulary and grammar

• You are familiar with traditional exam formats

PTE May Be Easier If:

• You are comfortable with computers

• You speak fluently but make minor grammar mistakes

• You want faster results

• You prefer AI-based scoring with less subjectivity

University & Visa Acceptance

• UK: Accepts both IELTS and PTE

• Australia & New Zealand: Strong preference for PTE

• Canada: IELTS widely accepted; PTE acceptance growing

• USA: Both are accepted by most universities

?? Always check course-specific and visa requirements before choosing.

Preparation Time Comparison

Final Verdict: Which One Should You Take?

There is no universal “easier” exam. The best choice depends on your strengths:

• Choose IELTS if you prefer traditional exams and face-to-face speaking.

• Choose PTE if you want a faster, computer-based test with AI scoring.

The smartest decision is not about difficulty — it’s about maximising your score with minimum stress.