If you’re planning to study or work in an English-speaking country, proving your English proficiency is a crucial step. Four of the most widely accepted English language tests are the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language), IELTS (International English Language Testing System), PTE (Pearson Test of English), and DET (Duolingo English Test). Each test has unique features, and the best choice depends on your needs, preferences, and institution requirements.
Let’s break them down to help you decide.
1. TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
Format: Internet-based test (TOEFL iBT) and a paper-based version in limited locations.
Sections: Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing.
Duration: About 2 hours.
Scoring: 0-120 (Each section scored out of 30).
Best for: Students applying to universities in the US and Canada.
Pros:
∙Widely accepted by North American universities.
∙Integrated speaking tasks that simulate real academic situations.
∙Standardized format with multiple-choice questions.
Cons:
∙Requires attendance at an authorized test center or a suitable environment for the Home
Edition.
∙Test fee varies by location.
2. IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
Format: Two versions: Academic (for university admissions) and General Training (for
immigration and work). Available as paper-based and computer-delivered tests.
Sections: Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing.
Duration: About 2 hours and 45 minutes.
Scoring: Band score from 0-9.
Best for: Students applying to universities in the UK, Australia, Canada, and Europe;
∙Accepted by over 12,000 organizations globally.
∙Offers both paper-based and computer-delivered formats.
∙Face-to-face speaking test with a human examiner.
Cons:
∙Speaking test is conducted separately, which can be stressful for some.
∙ The writing section is considered difficult due to strict grading.
3. PTE (Pearson Test of English Academic)
Format: Fully computer-based.
Sections: Speaking & Writing (combined), Reading, Listening.
Duration: About 2 hours.
Scoring: 10-90.
Best for: Students applying to universities in Australia, New Zealand, and select institutions
worldwide.
Pros:
∙Fast results (typically within 48 hours).
∙AI-based scoring eliminates human bias.
∙Convenient test-taking process.
∙Accepted by thousands of institutions worldwide, including Australia, New Zealand, the
UK, and Canada.
∙Unbiased evaluation with automated scoring technology.
Cons:
∙Requires attendance at an authorized test center.
∙Speaking test is conducted by a computer, which may feel unnatural for some.
4. DET (Duolingo English Test)
Format: Online, taken from home.
Sections: Adaptive test with integrated reading, writing, speaking, and listening tasks.
Best for: Those looking for an affordable and convenient test option accepted by some
∙Affordable (around $65).
∙Can be taken from home with minimal equipment.
∙Fast results, typically available within 48 hours.
∙Not accepted by all universities.
∙AI-based proctoring may raise privacy concerns.
Which Test Should You Choose?
∙TOEFL: Best for North American universities and test-takers comfortable with
∙IELTS: Ideal for those applying to the UK, Australia, Canada, or Europe and who prefer
∙PTE: Great for fast results, AI scoring, and wide acceptance in Australia, New Zealand,
∙DET: Suitable for affordability and convenience but check university acceptance.
Before choosing, always verify which test your institution accepts and consider your personal strengths and test format preferences. Good luck!
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