PTE to IELTS: Band Comparison, Score Calculation, Major Differences

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PTE to IELTS: Band Comparison, Score Calculation, Major Differences

Attaining overseas education has been alluring us since childhood. However, getting admission to those universities is not an easy task. To study in an English-speaking country, Indian students have to qualify for English-language proficiency tests like TOEFL, IELTS or PTE to prove their efficiency in the language. This is regarded as the primary eligibility requirement to study abroad.

Now, study abroad aspirants must understand the conversion between PTE and IELTS scores, and how it works generally. Doing so will give such students a good idea about where they stand and what the should be next steps in attaining the requisite scores. If you’re a student eyeing university admissions or a professional looking to work overseas, understanding how PTE scores match IELTS standards is key. In this blog, we’ll take you through the easiest way to convert PTE to IELTS while we’re calculating our scores.

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What are IELTS and PTE?

Before delving right into the topic, it is imperative that we first understand what exactly are the IELTS and PTE. The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a world-renowned English-language test working as a gateway for students to study in a foreign country. The exam is available in 2 modes i.e., on-paper and computer-based. However, the format, difficulty level and content remain the same for both modes. IELTS comprises 4 sections: Reading, Listening, Writing, and Speaking. Similarly, the Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE) is as valuable as IELTS and widely expected in a lot of countries. The PTE exam pattern has 4 sections, just like IELTS. 

PTE Vs IELTS: An Overview

Even though both the exams are almost similar, there are some peculiar differences in understanding IELTS vs PTE. Let’s take a look at those;

  • There are 2 versions of exams common for both, however, PTE has an additional version for young students to test their communication skills which is known as the ‘Young Learners Test’.
  • During the IELTS speaking test, candidates have to undergo a live conversation whereas in PTE the conversation of the candidates is recorded through microphones.
  • Since PTE is a computer-based test it analyses the candidates using different and unique tricks, IELTS, on the other hand, is also conducted on paper, hence it uses more graphs, charts and diagrams.
  • While taking the PTE exam the candidates can only move forward in the sections while candidates taking IELTS are open to moving forward or backwards multiple times. 
  • The major difference between the two exams is their scoring system. The IELTS score is calculated on the band of 0-9 and candidates’ English-language skills are determined in PTE through a score on a range of 10-90 points. Therefore very often a need for conversion from PTE to IELTS arises. 
ielts vs pte

Conversion Chart for PTE to IELTS Score

We have compiled the test scores from PTE to IELTS in a chart to show the score progression:

IELTS score chartPTE score chart
4.523
5.029
5.536
6.046
6.556
7.066
7.576
8.084
8.589
9.0NA

PTE to IELTS Band Comparison 2024

Have a look at the table below to go through the PTE to IELTS band comparison.

ielts vs pte band comparison

PTE to IELTS: Score Calculation

Refer to the following data to get an idea about how pte and IELTS scores are calculated.

How are PTE Scores calculated?

PTE scores are calculated using the Global Scale of English. PTE has a score range of 10 to 90. The overall band score is the average of the test’s results.

How are IELTS Scores calculated?

IELTS Scores are calculated by adding up the scores of each section and then dividing it by 4. Below mentioned is an example of the score calculation:

Average score= 6.5+6.5+5.0+8.0/4
= 26/4
= 6.5

Therefore, the overall IELTS Score Calculator is 6.5.

Why Convert PTE to IELTS?

Although both tests are prominent among the universities, certain universities accept only one of them. A majority of countries ask for IELTS scores to get admission to their universities. So, the candidates who have taken the PTE exam have to convert their scores. The reason behind this conversion is that both exams have differences in their formats and marking schemes. Hence, it becomes necessary for the students who have taken and qualified for the PTE exam to convert their score, if they want to get admission to a college that only accepts IELTS scores. 

Many universities accept this conversion. Therefore, this conversion is beneficial for students who have taken the PTE exam and were unable to either unable to take IELTS or couldn’t qualify it due to any reason. 

Major Difference between PTE and IELTS

In the mid-range, where the test is typically used for academic admissions purposes, the updated concordant scores have been minimally adjusted.

At IELTS 7.5 & above the PTE academic scores are in the same range just some points higher on the scale.
At IELTS 6.5 & below, the PTE academic scores are in the same range, just some points lower on the scale.

PTE Vs IELTS: Which is more scoring?

Both PTE and IELTS are recognized tests. The level of difficulty of both IELTS and PTE is the same. Both of them demand and require fundamental skill building as well as knowledge of the test format. However, the speaking part of IELTS is taken in the form of an interview, while in the PTE you simply speak to the computer. So, you have a fair chance of scoring high in IELTS if you speak with confidence, fluency and great vocabulary. PTE uses AI to award scores, and IELTS is evaluated manually. So, there is little to no chance of any discrepancy to occur in PTE results as it offers an unbiased and error-free approach. However, both exams can be scored if you prepare well. It depends upon you.

So that was all about the differences between IELTS and PTE. Hope the blog has answered your queries regarding the topic.

Related Reads:

PTE Exam Pattern for Academic and GeneralPTE Exam Pattern 2023 – How to Crack the …PTE Syllabus – Know It Inside Out [2023 Latest Edition]
IELTS Preparation Tips: General Tips and Section Wise …IELTS Exam 2023 Dates, Registration, Result, PreparationIELTS Eligibility: IELTS Exam Age Limit & Qualification

FAQs

What is the difference between PTE and IELTS?

Both are standard English language exams that are taken by students who are planning to take admission in universities abroad. IELTS scored on a scale of 1 – 9 whereas PTE is scored on 10 – 90 points.

Which is tougher PTE or IELTS?

Both PTE and IELTS follow a similar standard of testing students in the English Language exam. It is necessary for students or candidates to practice well to be able to score good marks in the exam. It is entirely based on the English language experience of the students to understand the level of the examination. 

What is a good PTE score?

The range for the overall score is between 10 and 90 points. You can refer to the above-written score comparison chart to know which university requires recommended PTE scores.

What are the countries that accept PTE?

The PTE is accepted in Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom.

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Reach out to Leverage Edu on 1800572000 and schedule a free session today.

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