Dreaming about studying or working abroad but sceptical about how to start? Mastering English is one milestone that you should aim for whenever the idea of residing abroad comes to your mind. Learning the English language is not just about learning a communication language; rather, a mastery of English will help you discover global opportunities and live life confidently.
Although the battle to choose between PTE vs. IELTS as your English learning course is confusing. More so when both of these courses can help you learn the language fluently.
In this blog, we will help you to unveil the differences while mentioning the factors that contribute to these differences. Let’s begin.
Understanding PTE and IELTS
Before we dive into the differences, let’s briefly understand what each test entails.
PTE Academic is a computer-based test focusing on real-life English used in academic surroundings. It tests reading, writing, listening, and speaking abilities and is widely accepted by universities, colleges, and governments globally.
IELTS offers both paper-based and computer-delivered tests. It assesses your English language skills in listening, reading, writing, and speaking. IELTS is recognised by educational institutions, employers, and governments worldwide. It comes in two versions: IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training, depending on your purpose.
PTE vs IELTS? What’s the Difference in Course?
PTE Course
Computer-Based Focus:
Since the PTE Academic is entirely computer-based, courses for PTE preparation often emphasise computer skills, including typing speed and navigating through the test’s digital interface.
Automated Scoring:
PTE courses highlight strategies to optimise responses for the test’s automated scoring system, focusing on clear enunciation in speaking tasks and the use of specific language patterns that the algorithm recognises and rewards.
Integrated Skills Tasks:
PTE preparation courses typically spend time teaching students how to handle integrated skills tasks, such as reading and speaking or listening and writing together, which are unique aspects of the PTE format.
Immediate Feedback Technology:
A PTE course utilises software that provides immediate feedback on speaking and writing tasks, mimicking the PTE’s automated scoring system to help students understand their current performance level.
IELTS Course
Variety in Test Formats:
IELTS courses cover strategies for both the Academic and General Training versions, focusing on the specific skills and content needed for each. Preparation also varies between the paper-based and computer-delivered formats of IELTS.
Human Scoring System:
IELTS preparation emphasises understanding the criteria used by human examiners, especially for speaking and writing sections. Courses teach how to structure essays and spoken responses to meet these criteria.
Face-to-Face Speaking Practice:
Given the face-to-face nature of the IELTS speaking test, courses often include live practice sessions with instructors or peers, focusing on improving fluency, pronunciation, and the ability to respond spontaneously.
Test-Specific Strategies:
IELTS courses provide strategies tailored to its specific question types, such as True/False/Not Given questions in the reading section or the particular requirements of Task 1 and Task 2 in the writing section.
Key Differences in Taking Each Course
1. Preparation Focus:
A PTE course often requires familiarity with a digital testing environment. In contrast, IELTS courses might place a greater emphasis on traditional test-taking skills and strategies for paper-based tests (though computer-delivered options are also available).
2. Skill Integration:
PTE courses focus more on tasks that integrate multiple skills, reflecting the test’s format. At the same time, IELTS preparation may treat each skill area (listening, reading, writing, speaking) more separately.
3. Scoring Strategy:
Understanding the scoring system is crucial for both, but the focus differs—PTE courses will prepare you for an algorithmic scorer, while IELTS courses aim to meet the criteria set by human examiners.
4. Speaking Component:
The method of preparation for the speaking section diverges significantly due to the PTE course use of a microphone and computer for recording responses and IELTS’s in-person interview format.
Choosing the Ideal Test for Your Purpose
The decision between PTE and IELTS should be based on your personal preferences, strengths, and goals. Consider the following.
1. Test Format Preference:
If you are more comfortable with computers and prefer a quick speaking test without a human examiner, PTE might suit you better. If you prefer a more traditional approach or a face-to-face speaking test, consider IELTS.
2. Scoring System and Requirements:
Understand the scoring requirements of your institution or visa application. Some may prefer the granular scoring of PTE, while others are more accustomed to the band scores of IELTS.
2. Result Turnaround Time:
If you are in a hurry to get your results, PTE’s faster turnaround time or the computer-delivered IELTS might be more appealing.
3. Test Availability and Location:
Consider the availability of test dates and locations. IELTS, being more widely available, might offer more flexibility in scheduling your test.
5. Acceptance:
Ensure that the institution, employer, or government you are applying to accepts the test you choose. While many accept both, some have specific requirements.
6. Preparation Materials:
Access to preparation materials can influence your decision. Consider which test offers resources that match your study habits and materials you find most helpful.
Final Words
Choosing between PTE vs. IELTS course depends on your test preference, which should align with your comfort with technology, your strengths in integrated skills tasks, and whether you prefer interacting with a computer or a human for the speaking test.
Each course is designed to prepare you for the specific challenges and opportunities of its respective tests, focusing on the skills and strategies that will help you achieve the best possible score.
Choose Englishwise for PTE and IELTS courses in different packages.