Have you given any English language test like IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE in Canada/USA for a Master's?
No, we have never taken the IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE ourselves. For your Master's, TOEFL iBT is traditionally preferred across the USA, IELTS Academic dominates in Canada, and PTE Academic is gaining ground for its automated scoring and roughly two-day turnaround, though every university's requirement still needs a direct check.
No, we have not personally sat the IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE, since applying to universities is not something we do. What we can tell you is exactly how these three tests are viewed differently across the USA and Canada, which should shape which one you actually book.
How These Three Tests Compare For Your Master's
| Test | Where It Is Preferred | Key Detail |
|---|---|---|
| TOEFL iBT | Traditionally preferred and near-universally accepted across the USA | Fully computer-based, including a microphone-recorded speaking section |
| IELTS Academic | Highly favored across Canada and the UK, plus globally | Speaking section is often a face-to-face or video interview with a real examiner |
| PTE Academic | Gaining traction in both Canada and the USA | Fully automated, AI-scored, with results usually back within about 2 days |
A Note On Canadian Immigration Pathways
- University admission requires an Academic version of your chosen test, not the General or Core version.
- If you are also eyeing Canadian permanent residency through Express Entry later, that pathway needs IELTS General Training or PTE Core instead.
- Always confirm your specific university's accepted test list before booking, since not every school accepts all three.
My Advice
Check your target university's exact accepted test list before you book anything, then choose PTE Academic if you want your score back fastest, or IELTS Academic if you would rather practice speaking with a live examiner instead of a microphone.
IELTS, PTE or Duolingo: which does Canada accept?
Find out which test your universities accept, and which is easiest for you.
More IELTS questions
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- Will you help with the IELTS application process and provide guidance on the required documents and deposits?
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