Comparison of IELTS, PTE, OIETC, TOEFL, and Duolingo
Test Comparison Overview
Explore the differences and similarities between IELTS, PTE, OIETC, TOEFL, and Duolingo in this comprehensive comparison guide.
Factor | IELTS | PTE | OIETC | TOEFL | Duolingo English Test |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Test Format | Paper-based & Computer-based | Computer-based | Online | Computer-based (iBT) | Online |
Sections | Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking (Face-to-Face or Online) | Speaking, Writing, Reading, Listening (AI-Based) | Reading, Listening, Writing, Speaking | Reading, Listening, Writing, Speaking | Adaptive Test: Listening, Reading, Speaking, Writing |
Test Duration | 2 hours 45 minutes | 2 hours | 60–90 minutes | 3–3.5 hours | 45–60 minutes |
Scoring | 0–9 band scale | 10–90 scale | CEFR (A1 to C1) | 0–120 scale | 10–160 scale |
Result Time | 3–13 days | 24–48 hours | 48 hours | 4–8 days | 24–48 hours |
Price (approx.) | $215–$260 | $200–$250 | $120–$150 | $180–$250 | $59 |
Test Difficulty | Moderate to Hard | Moderate | Easy to Moderate | Moderate to Hard | Moderate |
AI vs. Human Grading | Human & AI (Speaking is face-to-face or AI-assisted) | AI-Based | AI-Based | AI-Based | AI-Based |
Accepted By | Over 11,000 institutions worldwide | Widely accepted, especially in Australia, Canada, USA, UK | Less recognized, mostly UK universities | Over 11,500 institutions worldwide | Many universities, but not all major ones |
Best For | Universities, immigration (UK, Canada, Australia) | Universities, PR (Australia, Canada) | UK university admissions | Universities & visa purposes (USA, Canada, Australia) | Quick and affordable alternative for universities |
Speaking Section | Face-to-face or AI | Recorded answers (AI evaluation) | Recorded answers (AI evaluation) | Recorded answers (AI evaluation) | AI-graded via video responses |
Key Takeaways:
- IELTS is widely accepted, but results take longer, and speaking is face-to-face (or online AI-based for IELTS Indicator).
- PTE is AI-driven, offers faster results, and is great for studying in Australia & Canada.
- OIETC is an emerging test mainly accepted in the UK.
- TOEFL is preferred for US universities and includes academic-style questions.
- Duolingo is the most affordable and fastest option but not as widely accepted as IELTS or TOEFL.