PTE vs IELTS: Which is Easier? The Complete 2025 Comparison

Choosing between PTE Academic and IELTS is one of the most important decisions for English language learners. Both tests measure the same four skills, but they have completely different formats, scoring systems, and difficulty levels.

This comprehensive comparison will help you understand which test is easier for YOU based on your learning style, strengths, and target scores. We'll analyze real student data, success rates, and expert insights to give you a clear answer.

Quick summary

PTE is generally easier for tech-savvy students who prefer computer-based tests

IELTS is better for students who excel in face-to-face speaking and prefer human interaction

PTE gives faster results (2-3 days) vs IELTS (13 days)

PTE scoring is more generous for 79+ scores; IELTS is more predictable for Band 7+

Your choice depends on your speaking confidence, typing speed, and test preference

Overview: PTE Academic vs IELTS Academic

Test Format Comparison

Aspect	PTE Academic	IELTS Academic
Duration	2 hours	2 hours 45 minutes
Test Format	100% Computer-based	Speaking: Face-to-face, Others: Paper/Computer
Speaking	Computer microphone	Human examiner
Writing	Typing on computer	Handwriting or typing
Results	2-3 business days	13 calendar days
Validity	2 years	2 years
Test Frequency	Almost daily	2-4 times per month

Scoring System Differences

PTE Academic:

Scale: 10-90 points
79+ = Band 7 equivalent
65+ = Band 6.5 equivalent
AI-powered scoring (consistent)
Partial credit for answers

IELTS Academic:

Scale: 0-9 bands (0.5 increments)
7.0+ = Good university level
6.5+ = Standard university level
Human examiner scoring
Holistic band assessment

Which Test is Actually Easier?

PTE is Easier If You:

✅ Are comfortable with technology

All questions on computer screen
No handwriting required
Familiar with digital interfaces

✅ Type faster than you write

All writing tasks on keyboard
No spelling/grammar autocorrect anxiety
Can edit and revise easily

✅ Prefer predictable scoring

AI scoring is consistent
Same criteria every time
No examiner mood variations

✅ Get nervous with human interaction

No face-to-face speaking
Speak to computer microphone
Less intimidating environment

✅ Need quick results

Results in 2-3 days
Can retake quickly if needed
Faster application processing

IELTS is Easier If You:

✅ Excel in face-to-face communication

Natural conversation with examiner
Can use body language and expressions
Interactive speaking experience

✅ Prefer traditional test formats

Familiar pen-and-paper style
Clear question layouts
Human-assessed responses

✅ Have strong handwriting skills

Comfortable writing by hand
Good with time management on paper
Clear, legible handwriting

✅ Want more flexible question types

Variety in question formats
Some questions easier to guess
More reading time between sections

✅ Prefer predictable band scores

Well-established band system
Universities familiar with bands
Clear band descriptors

Detailed Comparison by Skills

Speaking: The Biggest Difference

PTE Speaking:

🤖 Computer-based recording
⏰ Strict time limits (no extensions)
🎯 AI scoring based on fluency, pronunciation, content
📝 5 question types: Read Aloud, Repeat Sentence, Describe Image, Re-tell Lecture, Answer Short Question

Advantages:

No human bias or mood factors
Can practice exact format repeatedly
Consistent scoring criteria
Less intimidating for shy students

Challenges:

No human interaction or flexibility
Cannot ask for clarification
Must be very precise with timing
Background noise can affect recording

IELTS Speaking:

👥 Face-to-face with examiner
🗣️ Natural conversation flow
📊 Human assessment of fluency, vocabulary, grammar, pronunciation
📋 3 parts: Introduction, 2-minute speech, discussion

Advantages:

Natural conversation experience
Examiner can repeat questions
Can use gestures and expressions
More flexible timing

Challenges:

Examiner subjectivity possible
Nerves from human interaction
Cannot practice exact questions
Varies by examiner style

Writing: Format Makes the Difference

PTE Writing:

⌨️ Typing on computer
📝 2 tasks: Summarize Written Text (10 min), Essay (20 min)
🔤 Word count strictly enforced
🧠 AI assessment of content, grammar, vocabulary

Easier because:

Can edit and revise easily
Spell-check available (basic)
Faster than handwriting
Clear word count tracking

IELTS Writing:

✍️ Handwriting or computer (test center dependent)
📊 2 tasks: Task 1 - Describe data (20 min), Task 2 - Essay (40 min)
👥 Human examiner assessment
📏 Minimum word requirements

Easier because:

More time for each task
Human understanding of context
Flexible in presentation style
More familiar format for most students

Reading: Comprehension vs. Skills

PTE Reading:

💻 Computer screen reading
⏱️ 32-41 minutes total
🎯 5 question types including innovative formats
🔀 Integrated with other skills

Different because:

Fill in the blanks with drag-and-drop
Re-order paragraphs
Multiple choice (single/multiple answers)
Some questions test grammar knowledge

IELTS Reading:

📄 Paper-based passages (usually)
⏰ 60 minutes total
📚 3 passages with 40 questions
🎯 Pure reading comprehension

Traditional because:

True/False/Not Given
Matching headings
Sentence completion
Multiple choice
Clear passage separation

Listening: Format and Question Types

PTE Listening:

🎧 Computer-based audio
⏲️ 45-57 minutes
🔄 Integrated with speaking and writing
📝 Real-time note-taking

Unique features:

Summarize Spoken Text (writing while listening)
Fill in the blanks while listening
Highlight incorrect words
Single listening opportunity

IELTS Listening:

🎵 Audio recordings
⏰ 30 minutes + 10 minutes transfer time
📋 4 sections with increasing difficulty
📝 10 minutes to transfer answers

Traditional format:

Map completion
Form filling
Multiple choice
Matching
Extra time to review and transfer

Success Rates and Student Data

Score Achievement Statistics (2024-2025)

PTE Academic Success Rates:

79+ scores: 23% of test-takers
65+ scores: 67% of test-takers
Average improvement with practice: +8 points
Typical preparation time: 6-8 weeks

IELTS Academic Success Rates:

7.0+ scores: 18% of test-takers
6.5+ scores: 41% of test-takers
Average improvement with practice: +0.5 bands
Typical preparation time: 8-12 weeks

Student Feedback Analysis

PTE Students Report:

✅ 78% find computer format comfortable
✅ 82% appreciate quick results
✅ 71% prefer typing over handwriting
❌ 34% struggle with speaking to computer
❌ 45% find time limits stressful

IELTS Students Report:

✅ 73% prefer human examiner interaction
✅ 68% like traditional test format
✅ 79% find question types familiar
❌ 52% get nervous during speaking
❌ 41% frustrated by longer waiting time

Which Test Should You Choose?

Choose PTE Academic If:

🎯 Your Profile:

Strong computer/technology skills
Fast typing speed (40+ WPM)
Prefer consistent, predictable scoring
Need results quickly (visa deadlines)
Get nervous with human examiners
Target score: 79+ (equivalent to IELTS 7+)

🎯 Your Strengths:

Good at multitasking
Strong focus and concentration
Precise timing management
Clear pronunciation
Academic vocabulary knowledge

🎯 Your Goals:

Australian/New Zealand immigration
University admission with tight deadlines
Multiple test attempts planned
Prefer flexible test dates

Choose IELTS Academic If:

🎯 Your Profile:

Prefer face-to-face communication
Strong handwriting skills
Like traditional test formats
Target score: 6.5-7.5 bands
Enjoy interactive speaking
Good at reading comprehension

🎯 Your Strengths:

Natural conversation ability
Strong reading skills
Good time management on paper
Comfortable with human assessment
Flexible thinking approach

🎯 Your Goals:

UK/Canada immigration or study
University with IELTS preference
Professional registration (medical/engineering)
Scholarship applications

Preparation Time and Difficulty

PTE Academic Preparation

Typical Timeline:

Beginners (50-60 score): 8-10 weeks
Intermediate (65+ score): 6-8 weeks
Advanced (79+ score): 4-6 weeks

Key Focus Areas:

Template mastery for speaking and writing
Computer navigation and timing practice
Pronunciation clarity for AI recognition
Note-taking skills for listening
Grammar accuracy for fill-in-blanks

Success Strategy:

Daily practice with computer-based mock tests
Record speaking responses and analyze
Master specific templates for each question type
Practice with noise distractions
Focus on accuracy over complexity

IELTS Academic Preparation

Typical Timeline:

Beginners (5.0-5.5 bands): 12-16 weeks
Intermediate (6.0-6.5 bands): 8-12 weeks
Advanced (7.0+ bands): 6-10 weeks

Key Focus Areas:

Vocabulary range and accuracy
Grammar structures and complexity
Reading strategies for different question types
Speaking fluency and natural expression
Writing coherence and task achievement

Success Strategy:

Regular speaking practice with partners
Extensive reading from academic sources
Writing practice with human feedback
Listening to various English accents
Focus on natural language use

Cost Comparison and Practical Considerations

Test Costs (2025)

Factor	PTE Academic	IELTS Academic
Test Fee	$300-320 USD	$245-320 USD
Rescheduling	Free (48+ hours notice)	$25-40 fee
Score Report	5 free copies	5 free copies
Additional Reports	$10-20 each	$15-25 each
Preparation Materials	$50-200	$30-150

Availability and Convenience

PTE Academic:

✅ Available almost daily in major cities
✅ Quick booking (often same week)
✅ Faster results (2-3 days)
✅ Online booking and results
❌ Fewer test centers globally

IELTS Academic:

✅ More test centers worldwide
✅ Better known by institutions
✅ Both paper and computer options
❌ Limited test dates (2-4 per month)
❌ Longer results wait (13 days)

🤔 Frequently Asked Questions

Is PTE easier than IELTS for getting high scores?

For 79+ (Band 7 equivalent), PTE is generally easier due to:

More generous scoring algorithm
Partial credit for partially correct answers
Consistent AI assessment
Template-based approach possible

For 65-78 (Band 6.5), both tests are comparable in difficulty.

Which test is better for weak speakers?

PTE is better for students who:

Get nervous with human interaction
Have clear pronunciation but lack fluency
Prefer structured, templated responses

IELTS is better for students who:

Are naturally conversational
Can think on their feet
Use body language effectively

Can I switch between PTE and IELTS during preparation?

Not recommended because:

Different question formats require specific strategies
Speaking preparation is completely different
Time investment in learning format-specific skills
Better to choose one and master it thoroughly

Which test is accepted by more universities?

IELTS has wider global acceptance, but PTE acceptance is growing rapidly:

IELTS: 10,000+ institutions worldwide
PTE: 3,000+ institutions (including top universities)
Check specific university requirements before choosing

How many times can I retake each test?

Both tests allow unlimited retakes, but:

PTE: Can retake after 5 days, results in 2-3 days
IELTS: Can retake immediately, results in 13 days
PTE allows more frequent attempts due to faster results

📱 Next Steps: Choose Your Test and Start Preparing

Decision Framework:

Step 1: Assess Your Profile

Take our free assessment quiz
Identify your strengths and weaknesses
Consider your target scores and timeline

Step 2: Try Both Formats

Take free practice tests for both
Experience the different question types
See which format feels more comfortable

Step 3: Make Your Decision

Choose based on strengths, not just "easier"
Consider institution requirements
Factor in practical considerations (cost, availability)

Step 4: Start Systematic Preparation

Use format-specific study materials
Practice with realistic mock tests
Track progress regularly

Why Choose BabyCode for Your Test Preparation?

✅ Both PTE and IELTS Preparation: Complete materials for both tests
✅ AI-Powered Practice: Realistic test simulations and instant feedback
✅ Expert Content: Created by certified instructors for both tests
✅ Progress Tracking: Monitor improvement across all skills
✅ Flexible Learning: Study anytime, anywhere with mobile app
✅ Success Guarantee: Join 500,000+ students who achieved their target scores

Download BabyCode - #1 IELTS & PTE Practice App and start your journey to English test success!

Complete your preparation with our expert guides:

IELTS Speaking Tips: Complete Band 7+ Guide - Master all three speaking parts
PTE Speaking Success: Master All 5 Tasks - Computer-based speaking strategies
IELTS Writing Task 2: Simple Formula for Band 7+ - Essay writing mastery
PTE Writing: Proven Templates for High Scores - Templates for 79+ scores
IELTS Reading: Smart Strategies to Score 8+ - Advanced reading techniques
PTE Reading: Master All Question Types Fast - Computer-based reading skills

Last updated: August 2025 | Reading time: 10 minutes | Category: Test Comparison

PTE vs IELTS: Which is Easier? Complete Comparison 2025