Which Test Is Better – IELTS, TOEFL, PTE or Duolingo?

Studying abroad is a lucid dream everyone wishes to get real. But, one thing that is vital for you to study overseas is the English language. The universities of foreign countries follow the protocols of the global education system. And the global education system makes the decision based on the grades one gets on standardised tests especially made to check the intelligibility of one’s English language.

There are four English language tests that are easily accepted by foreign universities, which are as follows: IELTS (International English Language Testing Service), TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language), PTE (Pearson Test of English), and Duolingo English Test.

All these fantastic four tests enhance your skills in the English language. The parameters of the English language are speaking, writing, listening, and reading. You might get bewildered as to which test will be suitable for you or which test can get you an easy entry to foreign universities. Well, you cannot decide without considering personal choices and requirements.

Let’s look at the tests in detail to conclude which test is better: IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo, or PTE.

IELTS (International English Language Testing System)

The International English Language Testing System or IELTS, is a test designed for non-native speakers of the English language. It is an internationally standardised test and tells the student how ready they are to go abroad.

It is cooperatively managed by the IDP, IELTS Australia, and Cambridge Assessment English. This test is approved by most academic institutions in Australia, Britain, Europe, Canada, New Zealand, and Ireland, as well as many institutions in the USA. IELTS has two modules, one is the academic module, and the other is a general training module.

There is another distinct test designed by IELTS partners, known as IELTS Life Skills. The academic module is designed for those who want to get admission to foreign universities or any other institution for higher studies. It is also made for medical professionals such as doctors and nurses who want to get educated and practice abroad in English-speaking countries.

The four parts of this test include: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. You can sit for this exam multiple times, but if you cannot qualify for the first time or the second go, you must train yourself additionally.

TOEFL (Test Of English As A Foreign Language)

The test of English as a foreign language is a systematised test to check the ability of English non-native English speakers. This test is created for people willing to enrol in English-speaking universities. This test is being approved by more than 11k universities and other institutions worldwide. It is taken in two types one is internet-based, and the other is a paper-based standardised test.

The internet-based test marks all four parameters of English language skills: Listening, Reading, Speaking, and Writing. This test format has replaced CBT, a computer-based test and PBT, the paper-based test, although the paper-based test is still in use in some selected areas.

People who want to sit for this test can apply online on its website and get their seats. If you don’t score well, you need not worry, as you can retake this examination. There is no limit to appearing for the exam. You can’t take the test twice within three days.

PTE (Pearson Test Of English Academic)

The Pearson Test for English academics is a test designed to evaluate the readiness of non-native speakers of the English language. It aids non-native English speakers in participating in a university-level English language instruction program.

It is a computer-based exam that emphasises real-life English used in academic surroundings. The Pearson Test of English comprises three parameters in which the first one is speaking and writing, the second is reading, and the third one is listening. There is no limit set for the PTE; all the candidates can sit for the exam with a gap of five days.

Duolingo

The Duolingo test is an assessment of English proficiency used to assess a person’s English language skills: Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening. As you proceed further in the test, the difficulty of the questions will increase or decrease according to how you have answered.

People also get a chance to record a video interview and written samples. This test is an easy escape from difficult exams like SAT, ACT, and more. This test is easily convenient as you can give it on your personal computers from anywhere. Also, the major point is that no limit is set for this test, but you should be cautious as you cannot take it twice in 30 days.

Comparison Chart

All of the four tests have their own pros and cons. Depending on your requirements and convenience, you can decide which test is comfortable for you.

Author: Deepak Shukla