Are you planning to study abroad or move to an English-speaking country? You’ll need to prove your English skills, and that’s where tests like IELTS and PTE come in. But, figuring out how scores from one test translate to the other can feel like trying to solve a puzzle.
In this blog, we’re here to simplify the confusion around PTE to IELTS conversion. We’ll break it down using easy-to-understand IELTS vs PTE Score Charts and PTE Band Score Charts.
Whether you’re a student eyeing university admissions or a professional looking to work overseas, understanding how PTE scores match IELTS standards is key.
Come along as we explore how scores align and share insights to help you make smart decisions about your language skills.
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What are PTE and IELTS scores?
PTE and IELTS are tests that check how well you know English. But, IELTS is more popular and accepted in more places, so many people choose it for their language test.
IELTS, or the International English Language Testing System, is a well-known test for people who aren’t native English speakers but want to study or work where English is spoken.
There are two types of the IELTS exam:
- Academic (for studying)
- General Training (for work)
- Life Skills (immigration)
The IELTS exam looks at your Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking skills and scores you from 0 to 9 band score. More than 11,500 places around the world accept IELTS scores.
PTE, or Pearson Test of English, is another test for non-native English speakers who want to study or work where English is used. Many universities and institutions in the UK, Australia, and New Zealand accept it.
Here is a table with a detailed difference between IELTS and PTE:
| IELTS Academic | PTE Academics | |
| Formats | Computer-delivered and Paper-based | Computer-based |
| Duration | 2 hours 45 minutes | 2 hours 15 minutes |
| Exam fee | -Computer-delivered IELTS: 16,250 -Computer-delivered IELTS for UKVI: 16,500 -Paper-based IELTS: INR 16,250 -IELTS Life Skills (A1 and B1): 15,350 -IELTS for UKVI: 16,500 | –PTE Academic: INR 15,900 -PTE Academic Online: INR 15,900 -PTE Academic UKVI: INR 15,900 -PTE Home A1: INR 13,500 -PTE Home A2: INR 13,500 -PTE Home A2: INR 13,500 |
| Result declaration | -3 – 5 days (Computer-delivered) -13 days (Paper-based) | 5 working days |
| Scoring range | Band score (0-9) | Score (0-90) |
Also read: PTE Score for UK 2023: Best Scores for Universities and Visa
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 chart | PTE score chart |
| 4.5 | 23 |
| 5.0 | 29 |
| 5.5 | 36 |
| 6.0 | 46 |
| 6.5 | 56 |
| 7.0 | 66 |
| 7.5 | 76 |
| 8.0 | 84 |
| 8.5 | 89 |
| 9.0 | NA |
Also read: IELTS VS PTE 2024: Which is the best for you?
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PTE to IELTS Band Comparison
Let’s dive into this simple guide on PTE to IELTS Band Comparison and make understanding English tests a breeze:
| PTE Academic | IELTS score | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 86-90 | 9 | Expert |
| 83-86 | 8.5 | Very Good |
| 79-83 | 8 | Very Good |
| 73-79 | 7.5 | Good |
| 65-73 | 7 | Good |
| 58-65 | 6.5 | Competent |
| 50-58 | 6 | Competent |
| 43-50 | 5.5 | Modest |
| 36-43 | 5 | Modest |
| 30-36 | 4.5 | Limited |
| 22-30 | 4 | Limited |
Why Do We Convert PTE to IELTS Scores?
Sometimes, students put a lot of work into preparing for one test, like PTE, but the university they want to attend accepts IELTS scores. To make things fair for everyone, some universities and test organisations allow PTE to IELTS scores conversion.
Even though the tests have different formats and grading, they measure your English proficiency. So, some universities accept the converted scores for students aiming to study abroad to make the process smoother.
Choosing Between PTE and IELTS
While both PTE and IELTS are well-known English proficiency exams, you can take mock tests for both and understand which test they find better. Both the tests have their pros and cons.
While it is believed that some portions of the PTE test have more scope to achieve a higher score, IELTS, on the other hand, is more standardised in its marking scheme. Similarly, the PTE speaking test is graded by an algorithm, leading to something that may lead to abrupt marking.
To Sum Up
As we navigate the complexities of PTE to IELTS conversion, it’s important to note that many universities encourage Indian students to undergo a valid English language testing exam to evaluate their communication skills.
In such instances, you are typically given the flexibility to choose between PTE and IELTS.
In this journey, Leap Scholar can help you prepare for the IELTS exam with the help of our expert counsellors.
You can book a free counselling session today to start your IELTS preparation!
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q. What’s the difference between PTE and IELTS?
A. Both are English language testing exams taken by students seeking admission to institutions overseas. IELTS is graded on a scale of 1–9, whereas PTE is graded on 10–90. The exam fee is INR 15,900 for PTE and INR 16,250 for IELTS. The duration for PTE is 2 hours 15 minutes, and IELTS is 2 hours and 45 minutes.
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Q. Which is more complicated, the PTE or the IELTS?
A. Both PTE and IELTS use the same criteria for evaluating students in the English Language exam. You must practice extensively to perform well in the test. Understanding the level of the examination is dependent on the student’s English language experience.
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Q. What is a good PTE score?
A. In the PTE exam, the overall score can fall between 10 and 90 points. A score of 60 can be considered a decent score, but for better admission prospects, you should aim to get scores ranging between 65 and 75 or above. Different institutions may have specific score ranges they prefer, so checking the requirements will give you a clearer picture of where your PTE score stands in relation to their expectations.
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Q. Which nations have agreed to accept PTE?
A. Several nations recognise and accept the PTE as proof of English language proficiency. Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and the UK are notable among these. Having a PTE score can open doors for you if you’re considering studying or working in any of these countries. It’s always a good idea to check with specific institutions and immigration authorities in these nations to ensure you meet their English language requirements for admission or visa purposes.
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Q: Why would someone consider converting PTE to IELTS scores?
A: Converting PTE to IELTS scores can benefit individuals who have prepared extensively for one test but need their scores accepted by institutions that recognise the other. It allows test takers flexibility in presenting their language proficiency to a wider range of universities or organisations.
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Q: How do the formats of the IELTS and PTE exams differ?
A: While both tests assess English language proficiency, the formats differ. IELTS includes four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking, while PTE incorporates tasks that assess integrated skills like reading and speaking together. Understanding these format variances is crucial when considering PTE to IELTS conversion.
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Q: What is the scoring range for PTE, and how does it compare to IELTS?
A: PTE scores range from 10 to 90 points, unlike IELTS, which utilises a 0 to 9 band scale. Conversion charts help bridge the gap between these scales, aiding individuals in interpreting their PTE scores in terms of IELTS band equivalents.
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Q: Can all universities that accept IELTS scores also consider PTE scores?
A: While many universities worldwide accept either IELTS or PTE scores, it’s essential to check specific institutions’ requirements. Some universities may have a preference for one test over the other, and conversion charts can help align PTE scores with their IELTS equivalents.
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Q: How does the PTE to IELTS Score Chart assist test takers in understanding their results?
A: The PTE to IELTS Score Chart serves as a reference tool, helping individuals interpret their PTE scores in terms of IELTS bands. This comparison facilitates communication with universities or employers that recognise IELTS scores, providing clarity and transparency.
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Q: Is PTE or IELTS more widely accepted globally?
A: IELTS enjoys higher recognition globally and is accepted by over 11,500 organisations worldwide. While PTE is recognised in many countries, the broader acceptance of IELTS may influence the choice of individuals aiming for international studies or work.
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Q: Can PTE to IELTS conversion impact eligibility for immigration purposes?
A: Yes, PTE to IELTS conversion can impact eligibility for immigration, as some countries may have specific language proficiency requirements for immigration purposes. It’s crucial to check with the immigration authorities of the destination country to ensure compliance with their language proficiency standards.
