If you’re planning to study abroad, one of the first steps is proving your language or academic skills—and that’s where exams like IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, and GRE come into the picture. Each test has its own purpose, format, and focus, so understanding how they work can help you decide which one suits your goals best. Here’s a straightforward breakdown of these popular exams.
IELTS (International English Language Testing System) IELTS is one of the most recognized English language tests around the world, especially if you’re applying to universities in the UK, Australia, or Canada. It checks your English ability in four areas—Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. You can choose between the Academic version (for study) and the General version (mainly for work or migration). Most students take the Academic version. You can take IELTS either on paper or a computer, and for the Speaking test, you’ll talk directly with an examiner, which many students find more natural. IELTS scores are given on a scale of 1 to 9. Most universities ask for a score of 6.5 to 7.0, depending on the course. The results stay valid for two years, so make sure you take the test at the right time during your application process. Many students choose IELTS because it’s flexible, available frequently, and gives a choice between test formats. Also, the accents used in the Listening section reflect real-world English from countries like the UK, Australia, and the US. If you’re more confident speaking to someone face-to-face rather than into a microphone, the IELTS Speaking section may feel more comfortable. It’s a great option if you want a balanced, straightforward test with wide global acceptance.
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) TOEFL is another major English language test, mostly preferred by universities in the USA. It also tests four key skills—Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing—but the entire test happens on a computer. Even the Speaking part is recorded with a microphone instead of a live interview. The total score ranges from 0 to 120, with 30 points for each section. Most universities look for a score between 80 and 100. TOEFL scores are valid for two years, and results are usually available within 6 to 10 days, which is useful if you’re short on time. One special thing about TOEFL is that the content is very academic. You might listen to lectures or read from textbooks—just like in a university setting. So if you’re good with academic material and comfortable typing, TOEFL might suit you well. Since there’s no direct conversation with an examiner, it can be less stressful for students who feel nervous in live speaking situations. The exam is a bit longer than IELTS, but it works well for those who prefer structured, computer-based testing.
PTE (Pearson Test of English) PTE Academic is becoming a popular option, especially for students applying to universities in Australia, New Zealand, and the UK. The whole test is done on a computer, and the scoring is handled by an AI system, so there’s no human interference in the evaluation. It covers Speaking & Writing (combined), Reading, and Listening. The test is quick and efficient—results usually come out in 24 to 48 hours. Scores are given on a scale of 10 to 90, and most universities ask for scores between 58 and 65. Just like other English tests, the PTE score stays valid for two years. PTE tasks are quite practical. For example, you might listen to a recording and then write a summary. The test moves quickly and the tasks are short, which helps some students stay focused better than in longer exams. Since it’s fully computerized with no live interaction, PTE is great for students who feel more confident with tech and prefer typing over writing by hand. It’s also ideal if you need fast results for a last-minute application.
GRE (Graduate Record Examination) GRE is different from the other three tests because it’s not just an English test—it’s designed for students applying to graduate programs, especially in the USA. It checks Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing. That means you’ll be tested on both language and math skills, along with how well you think critically and solve problems. GRE scores range from 260 to 340 for the Verbal and Quant sections, and the Writing part is scored separately on a scale of 0 to 6. Many good universities look for a score between 300 and 320. The great thing is that GRE scores are valid for five years, giving you more flexibility with your plans. The test is computer-based and takes about 3 hours and 45 minutes to complete. It does need solid preparation, especially if you’re not confident in math or advanced vocabulary. Programs like MS in Computer Science, Engineering, or Business Analytics often require GRE scores. Some universities now make GRE optional, so you can submit your score only if you feel it adds value to your application. But if you’re someone who enjoys analytical tasks and wants to stand out, a good GRE score can be a great addition to your profile.