IELTS vs TOEFL vs PTE: Which English Test Is the Easiest for Study or Work Abroad?

Dec 29, 2025, 16:32 IST

IELTS, TOEFL and PTE are the top English proficiency tests for studying or working abroad. Each differs in format, scoring, speaking style, and test difficulty. While IELTS includes face-to-face speaking, TOEFL and PTE rely more on computer-based responses. Choosing the best option depends on your comfort, skills, and career goals.

IELTS vs TOEFL vs PTE
IELTS vs TOEFL vs PTE

Thinking which English test is easiest: IELTS, TOEFL or PTE? Well, it can be challenging at times to choose the right English test. Most of you look for an English test that matches your current knowledge and skills. As a result, you will be able to score high marks in the test. IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE are the top English language proficiency tests for studying or working abroad. All three are widely accepted in many countries.

But each of them has a different test format and requirements. So, which one is easy? It depends on your choice and strengths. Thus, you should first understand what this test is all about before applying. Let’s discuss the IELTS vs TOEFL vs PTE to identify which English test works well with your career goals.

Which English Test Is Easiest: IELTS, TOEFL or PTE?

IELTS stands for International English Language Testing System. It’s designed to check how well you can study, work, and thrive in places where English is spoken. More than 12500 institutions around the world accept IELTS.

There are two IELTS options, i.e. Academic or General Training.  IELTS is divided into four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. The overall test duration is 2 hours and 45 minutes. The test will be conducted on paper or on a computer.

TOEFL is one of the widely accepted English Language tests for Study, Work, and Beyond. It is accepted by 13,000+ institutions in more than 160 countries. It covers all universities in the US, UK, Canada, Australia, Germany and thousands of other leading universities around the globe. The TOEFL test is divided into four sections: reading, listening, speaking and writing.

The overall test duration shall be about 2 hours. It is a computer-based test conducted at an authorised test centre or at home (monitored by a live human proctor).

PTE stands for Pearson Test of English for studying, working or living abroad. The scores of this computer-based test are accepted by 3,900+ universities and colleges worldwide. It is typically divided into three parts: Speaking & Writing, Reading, and Listening. It is a computer-based test with a unique combination of AI scoring and human expertise.

Also Check:

How to Prepare for IELTS at Home
IELTS Academic vs General

IELTS, TOEFL or PTE: Quick Comparison

We have compared IELTS vs TOEFL vs PTE in terms of various parameters to determine which is easier. This includes test style, speaking, timing, difficulty level, and other areas.

Feature

IELTS

TOEFL

PTE

Test Style

Human + Paper/Computer

Fully Computer

Fully computer-based test

Scores are accepted by

12500+ institutions

13,000+ institutions

3,900+ universities and colleges worldwide

Sections

Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking

Reading, listening, speaking and writing

Speaking & Writing, Reading, and Listening

Speaking

Face-to-face

Microphone

Microphone

Writing

Task-based

Long Hours Integrated and Academic Discussion task

Short and different tasks

Timing

2 hours and 45 min

2 hours

2 hours

Results Time

1-13 days

4-10 days

Typically 48 hours

Difficulty Level

Moderate

Moderate-Difficult

Easy-Moderate

So, which is easier: IELTS, TOEFL or PTE? Many learners find the PTE the easiest of the three tests. It is a fully computer-based test with no face-to-face interviews. And the AI scoring makes it unbiased and straightforward. But the difficulty level still depends on your preparation level. All three English Proficiency test have their own guidelines.

IELTS is a human-style test that is conducted both offline and online. The IELTS speaking test requires candidates to appear face-to-face or via video call with IELTS Examiners. On the other hand, TOEFL or PTE are a combination of AI scoring and human expertise.

Mridula Sharma
Mridula Sharma

Content Writer

Mridula Sharma is an experienced content writer with a background in Journalism and Mass Communication. With three years of experience in crafting engaging and informative articles, she specializes in education and exam-related content. Currently contributing at Jagran Josh, Mridula aims to provide readers with well-researched insights that help them in their exam preparation journey.

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