English language tests compared
IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, Duolingo and Cambridge — what each is for, how universities use scores, and how to choose a test without chasing a generic “easiest” ranking.
Universities do not ask for “an English test”. They ask for specific tests, specific minimum scores, and sometimes specific component floors (for example a minimum speaking score). Choosing a test because a forum called it easy is how applicants book the wrong exam, miss a component requirement, or discover too late that the destination institution does not accept that product.
This guide compares the main tests at the level of purpose and logistics. Score charts go stale; always verify current acceptance and minima on the university’s own page.
The decision order that saves money
- List every institution or scholarship you might apply to this cycle.
- Write down the accepted tests and minimum scores from each official page, including component minima.
- Find the intersection — the smallest set of tests that covers your whole list.
- Only then compare price, dates, locations and format preference among the tests that remain eligible.
If one dream programme accepts only Test A, that constraint wins over convenience.
The main tests, side by side
| Test | Typical use | Format notes (high level) |
|---|---|---|
| IELTS Academic | Widely accepted for UK, Australia, Canada, many global universities; also used in some visa processes | Paper or computer; speaking often face-to-face with an examiner |
| TOEFL iBT | Very widely accepted, especially US-focused applications; also accepted elsewhere | Integrated tasks; speaking into a microphone in a test centre or approved home edition where offered |
| PTE Academic | Growing acceptance; check each university list carefully | Computer-scored; relatively fast results in many cases |
| Cambridge English (e.g. C1 Advanced) | Accepted by many institutions; often does not expire in the same way some other scores do — confirm per university | Qualifications with CEFR alignment; different products for different levels |
| Duolingo English Test | Accepted by some universities, especially for remote convenience; far from universal | Online, shorter; always verify acceptance before booking |
Visa vs university requirements
A score that satisfies a university offer may not satisfy a visa language rule, and vice versa. Australia Awards and other government scholarships can add further requirements. Check both layers. Related: student visa basics and the Australia Awards profile.
IELTS Academic vs General Training
For university admission you almost always need Academic. General Training is a different product aimed at migration and some work contexts. Booking the wrong module wastes a fee and a preparation cycle.
What “overall 6.5” does not tell you
Many offers require an overall score and no component below a floor. An overall that looks fine can still fail if listening or writing is short. Read component rules before you celebrate a practice-test average.
Preparation that actually transfers
- Sit a timed diagnostic in the real format of the test you will take
- Train the scoring logic of that test (integrated speaking on TOEFL is not IELTS cue-card speaking)
- Build academic reading stamina with real articles, not only test-prep snippets
- Book early enough for a resit before application deadlines
- Check how scores are sent electronically to institutions and how long delivery takes
Exemptions
Some universities waive tests if you completed a qualification taught in English in a named country, or if you hold a prior degree meeting their policy. Exemptions are narrow and documentary. Do not assume a waiver; apply for it through the stated process or book the test.
Related: grading systems and GPA conversion and how to compare universities.