Picking the right English test is one of the first steps in your study abroad journey. IELTS, PTE, and Duolingo are the three most popular options. Each one has its own benefits.
Comparison Overview
| Feature | IELTS | PTE | Duolingo |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fee | ₹17,000 | ₹15,900 | $59 (~₹5,000) |
| Duration | 2h 45min | 2h | 1h |
| Result Time | 3-13 days | 48 hours | 48 hours |
| Scoring | 0-9 Bands | 10-90 | 10-160 |
| Format | Paper/Computer | Computer only | Online at home |
| Speaking | Face-to-face | AI recorded | Video recording |
Why Is IELTS the Gold Standard?
IELTS is accepted by over 11,500 groups worldwide. It is the most popular test. UK and Australian schools prefer it. The face-to-face speaking test is good for students who like talking to an examiner.
Best for: UK, Australia, and Canada visa applications. IELTS General Training is needed for Canada PR.
Why Choose PTE for Fast Results?
PTE Academic is fully computer-based with AI scoring. You get results in just 48 hours. This makes it the fastest option. One question can count toward multiple sections.
Best for: Australia and New Zealand visa applications. Students who like computer-based tests.
Is Duolingo the Most Affordable Option?
The Duolingo English Test costs only $59. You can take it from home in under one hour. Over 4,500 schools accept it, mostly in the USA. The test changes difficulty based on your answers.
Best for: US school applications. Students who want a fast, cheap, and easy test.
Which English Test Should You Choose for Your Goals?
- **For Canada Study Visa (SDS)**: IELTS or PTE
- **For Canada PR**: IELTS General Training
- **For UK Universities**: IELTS Academic
- **For Australia**: PTE or IELTS
- **For USA Universities**: Duolingo or IELTS
- **For fastest results**: PTE (48 hours)
- **For lowest cost**: Duolingo ($59)
Over 3.5 million IELTS tests were taken worldwide in 2024. But PTE and Duolingo are growing fast. Many students now pick them for faster and cheaper options.
Career Masterz offers coaching for all three exams. Our trainers help you get your target score on the first try.