International English Exams
IELTS, TOEFL, PTE Academic, the Duolingo English Test and TOEIC: what each test is for and how to prepare.
These five tests are accepted by universities, employers and authorities around the world. They measure the same four skills, but they differ in format, length, scoring and where they are accepted. Compare them here, then go straight to the preparation pages for your exam.
The Five Tests at a Glance
The main differences in one table.
| Test | Mainly used for | How you take it | Length | Score scale |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| IELTS | University, migration, work (Academic and General Training versions) | Test centre, on paper or computer; speaking face to face with an examiner | About 2 hours 45 minutes | Bands 1–9 |
| TOEFL iBT | University, especially in North America | Computer, at a test centre or at home; the test adapts to your level | About 2 hours | Bands 1–6 (plus 0–120 during the transition) |
| PTE Academic | University and migration, especially Australia and the UK | Computer at a test centre; scored automatically | About 2 hours | 10–90 |
| Duolingo English Test | University admission | Online at home; the test adapts to your level | About 1 hour | 10–160 |
| TOEIC | Work and job applications | Listening & Reading test, plus a separate Speaking & Writing test | About 2 hours (Listening & Reading) | 10–990 (Listening & Reading) |
Formats, fees and accepted scores change. Always check the official test website before you book.
Prepare for Your Exam
Each exam has its own guide, study plan and practice pages.
1IELTS
The International English Language Testing System is the most widely accepted test for study and migration. Choose IELTS Academic for university, or IELTS General Training for work and migration.
2TOEFL iBT
The Test of English as a Foreign Language is a computer-based test for university study, widely used in the USA and Canada. Since January 2026 it has a new, shorter format that adapts to your level.
3PTE Academic
The Pearson Test of English Academic is taken on a computer and scored automatically, so results usually arrive quickly. It is accepted for study and for visa applications in several countries.
4Duolingo English Test
A short online test you take at home. It adapts to your level as you answer. Many universities accept it for admission, but not all, and it is rarely accepted for visas.
5TOEIC
The Test of English for International Communication measures English at work. Employers use it for hiring and promotion. It is not usually accepted for university admission.
How to Choose the Right Test
Start with the organisation that asks for the certificate, not with the test.
?Four Questions to Ask
- Purpose Do you need English for study, work or a visa?
- Acceptance Which tests does your university, employer or authority accept?
- Target Which score or CEFR level do you need?
- Format Do you prefer a computer test, a test at home, or speaking to a person?
Choose the test that fits your goal.
Find out which test is accepted, learn its format, and practise the skills it measures.
Purpose. Acceptance. Target. Practice.
Questions? Get in touch