IELTS is one of the most widely accepted English proficiency tests worldwide. It assesses listening, reading, writing, and speaking skills. It is commonly required for study, work, and migration purposes in English-speaking countries.
Types:
IELTS Academic – For students applying to universities and professional institutions.
IELTS General Training – For work, migration, or non-academic purposes.
Test Format:
Listening
Reading
Writing
Speaking
Duration:
Around 2 hours and 45 minutes.
PTE is a computer-based English proficiency test that evaluates speaking, writing, reading, and listening skills. It is known for its AI-based scoring and fast results (usually within 48 hours).
Types:
PTE Academic – For university applications and professional registration.
PTE General – For non-academic purposes (not commonly required for visas).
Test Format:
Listening
Reading
Writing
Speaking
Duration:
Around 2 hours.
TOEFL is a popular test for students applying to universities in English-speaking countries. It is known for its academic focus. The most common version is the TOEFL iBT (Internet-Based Test).
Test Format:
Listening
Reading
Writing
Speaking
Duration:
Around 3 hours.
The Duolingo English Test is an online, AI-based test that evaluates English proficiency in a short and adaptive format. It is widely accepted by universities worldwide, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic.
Test Format:
Includes reading, writing, listening, and speaking tasks.
Adaptive test format (difficulty adjusts based on responses).
Includes a video interview and writing sample.
Duration:
Around 1 hours.
LanguageCert offers internationally recognized English language exams that are often used for study, work, and migration. The exams are available online or at test centers.
Types:
LanguageCert International ESOL – For general and academic English proficiency.
LanguageCert SELT (Secure English Language Test) – Required for UK visas and immigration.
Test Format:
Listening, Reading, Writing
Speaking (conducted separately via live video call)
Duration:
Around 2–3 hours (varies by level).
The Oxford English Language Test is an online test designed by Oxford University Press. It is often used to assess English skills for study and work purposes.
Test Format:
Listening
Reading
Writing
Speaking
Duration: Varies based on test version.
Which Test Should You Choose?
For UK visa & immigration: IELTS, PTE, or LanguageCert SELT.
For studying in the USA: TOEFL or Duolingo (some universities accept IELTS/PTE too).
For studying in the UK, Canada, or Australia: IELTS, PTE, or Duolingo.
For fast results & flexibility: PTE or Duolingo.
For traditional testing at centers: IELTS or TOEFL.
