The Four Major English Tests
Most international university applications require proof of English proficiency. The four main tests are IELTS, TOEFL iBT, Duolingo English Test (DET), and PTE Academic. Each has different formats, costs, and acceptance levels. Choosing the right one can save you money and improve your score.
Quick Comparison
IELTS Academic: $245 | Paper + computer | 2h 45min | Accepted by 11,000+ institutions globally | Strongest for UK, Australia, Canada, NZ
TOEFL iBT: $200-$300 | Computer-based | 2 hours | Accepted by 12,000+ institutions | Strongest for US
Duolingo English Test: $65 | Online from home | 1 hour | Accepted by 5,000+ institutions | Growing acceptance, most affordable
PTE Academic: $200-$280 | Computer-based | 2 hours | Accepted by thousands | Strong for Australia immigration
Which Test for Which Country?
US universities: TOEFL or Duolingo (most US schools accept DET now)
UK universities: IELTS strongly preferred; many accept TOEFL/PTE
Canadian universities: IELTS or TOEFL (both widely accepted)
Australian universities: IELTS or PTE Academic
European universities: IELTS most common; TOEFL also accepted
Score Equivalence Guide
IELTS 6.5 β TOEFL 79-93 β Duolingo 110-120 β PTE 58-64
IELTS 7.0 β TOEFL 94-101 β Duolingo 120-130 β PTE 65-72
IELTS 7.5 β TOEFL 102-109 β Duolingo 130-140 β PTE 73-78
Our Recommendation
If budget is a concern, start with the Duolingo English Test ($65) β it's accepted by more universities each year. If you need the widest acceptance, IELTS Academic is the safest bet globally. For US-focused applications, TOEFL remains the gold standard. For Australian immigration, PTE Academic integrates with visa applications.
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