Are you planning to pursue your higher education in Australia? If so, you will need to take an English language proficiency test to demonstrate your skills. At present, two of the most popular options out there are the PTE Academic and IELTS Academic English tests.
Whether you are applying for a student visa or just getting started with your applications, scoring well on these tests can greatly benefit you in the entire process. With proper training and preparation, your PTE and IELTS scores can easily be improved. However, it is important to choose the test that aligns best with your skills and strengths.
While both PTE and IELTS are designed to test English language proficiency, the format of the tests is also quite different. So in this blog post, I will provide you with all the information related to the format and the tests themselves, so that you can make an informed decision for yourself!
English Language Proficiency Test Requirement for Australian Universities
What is an English Language Proficiency Test?
An English Language Proficiency Test is a standardized exam used to assess an individual's ability to use English. The evaluation occurs in multiple contexts like - reading, writing, speaking, listening, etc. They are commonly used for academic purposes or professional reasons like applying for a visa, seeking employment abroad, etc.
English Language Proficiency Test Requirement for Australian Universities
Below I will list the tests generally accepted by the top Australian universities and their minimum scores for admission:
|
English Language Proficiency Test
|
Minimum Test Score
|
International English Language Testing System (IELTS) |
6.0-6.5 |
Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic |
50-64 |
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) |
60-90 |
Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) |
169-176 |
Occupational English Test (OET) |
Pass (A or B) |
It is to be noted that the minimum score requirement for admission may vary depending on the university and type of program. Thus it is best to check with the specific university before sitting for the test!
PTE Academic
The Pearson Test of English or PTE test is organized by Pearson PLC and has 20 question types divided into 3 parts -Speaking and Writing, Reading, and Listening. The total duration of the PTE test is 2 hours in a single sitting.
Speaking and Writing
The candidate is given 54-67 minutes to answer 28-36 questions on topics such as sentence repetition, an image description, re-telling lectures, answering short questions, summarising written text, and writing an essay.
Reading
During the 29-30 minute test, candidates have to answer 13-18 questions such as multiple-choice questions (both single and multiple answers), read and write, fill in the blanks, and re-order paragraphs.
Listening
In a 30-43 minutes listening test, candidates have to answer 12-20 questions and summarise spoken text, fill in the blanks, give multiple choice answers, highlight correct summary, select missing words, highlight incorrect words, and write from dictation.
Total Duration: 2 hours (in a single sitting)
Minimum Score: 42
Validity of Score: 2 years
Result: available online within 2 working days from the test date
IELTS Academic
British Council, IDP, and Cambridge Assessment: English generally organize the International English Language Testing System or IELTS Academic exam. The total test duration of IELTS is 2 hours and 45 minutes, and the speaking test can be scheduled within seven days.
Listening
During the time of 30 minutes, candidates have to listen to 4 recordings and complete tasks such as matching information, multiple choice answers, planning, map and diagram labeling, creating form, note, table, flow chart, summary, completion, sentence completion, and give short answers to the questions.
Reading
Candidates are required to read three passages in 60 minutes and complete the tasks like identifying information, matching features, matching sentence endings, sentence completion, identifying the writer’s views or claims, summary, note, table, chart, completion, matching headings, short-answer questions, and more.
Writing
The time duration of the written test is 60 minutes and is divided into two parts. In part 1, candidates have to identify information and trends in a graph, chart, table, or diagram and explain it. In part 2, candidates have to write an essay on a given subject.
Speaking
During 11 to 14 minutes of speaking tests, candidates have to complete a few tasks divided into three parts. Part-1 is an introduction and interview, part-2 involves talking about a particular topic, and Part 3 involves discussing the topic given in Part 2.
Total Duration: 2 hours 45 minutes (including the speaking test)
Minimum Score: 5.5
Validity of Score: 2 years
Result: on computer - available online 3-5 days after the test date
PTE and IELTS are both English language proficiency exams designed to test an individual's English language skills.
You do not need to take both tests; taking either one meets the English language proficiency requirement for Australian Visa applications
.
It is important to consider the format and minimum test score requirement for admission and choose accordingly.
If you are sitting for the upcoming IELTS and PTE exams and want to upgrade your application by achieving that near-perfect score, Enhance English Bangladesh is here to help! With their help, you can sit for IELTS or PTE Mock tests, get your Mock tests evaluated by professionals, and even register for your IELTS or PTE exam without any hassle. So start preparing for your PTE or IELTS test today and consult one of our experienced professionals at PFEC Global Bangladesh if you have any queries!
Please reach out to us at 01730785457 or 096 09 800 300 for more details.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which is more acceptable by Australian universities PTE or IELTS?
Answer: Both are widely accepted by Australian universities, but it is best to check with your chosen institution to see which test they prefer.
Do I need to take both PTE and IELTS tests for studying in Australia?
Answer: No, most universities accept either test, so you can choose the one that best suits you!
What is the difference between PTE and PTE online?
Answer: PTE and PTE online are the same test. PTE is taken at a test center while PTE online can be taken from the comfort of your own home!
How much is the IELTS and PTE exam fee in Bangladesh?
Answer: Cost of IELTS Academic is BDT 20,250 and PTE Academic exam is BDT 23,800 or USD 200 in Bangladesh.
Which test is best for Australia student visa PTE or IELTS?
Answer: There is no preference over PTE or IELTS for Australia student visa. Both are accepted with student visa applications.
