Why PTE?
Confused between PTE, IELTS and Duolingo Language test
When planning to study, work, or migrate abroad, proving your English language proficiency is essential. Among the most widely accepted English tests globally are the PTE (Pearson Test of English), the IELTS (International English Language Testing System), and the Duolingo English Test (DET). While all three assess core English skills such as listening, reading, writing, and speaking, they differ in format, scoring, test environment, and global recognition. Understanding these differences will help you choose the right test based on your goals, convenience, and preferences.
At PTEHub, we guide you to the most effective and stress-free testing pathway. Here’s why PTE might be the ideal choice for your journey, along with a clear comparison to IELTS and Duolingo.
| Feature |  PTE (Pearson Test of English) |  IELTS (International English Language Testing System) |  Duolingo English Test |
|---|---|---|---|
| Test Type | Fully computer-based | Paper-based or computer-based | Fully online |
| Speaking Test | Recorded via computer | Face-to-face with examiner (Paper) or computer (CD-IELTS) | Online via AI |
| Result Time | 1–2 days | 3–5 days (computer), up to 13 days (paper) | Within 48 hours (2 days) |
| Test Duration | Approx. 2 hours | Approx. 2 hours 45 minutes | Approx. 1 hour |
| Accepted For | Study, Work, PR (AU, NZ, UK, Canada – depending on visa type) | Study, Work, PR (AU, NZ, Canada, UK, etc.) | Mainly university admissions (PR use is rare) |
| Scoring | AI-based (10–90 scale) | Human-scored (Band 0–9 scale) | AI-based (10–160 scale) |
| Retake Policy | Unlimited retakes, book anytime after results | Retakes based on test center availability | 3 attempts per purchase (1 test + 2 retakes) |
| Test Environment | At authorized Pearson test centers | At test center or online (IELTS Online/Indicator – limited use) | Online from home |
| No. of Universities | 3,000+ institutions globally | 11,000+ institutions in 140+ countries | 4,000+ institutions globally |
| Accepted In | 80+ countries (AU, NZ, UK, Canada, USA, Germany, etc.) | 140+ countries worldwide | 70+ countries (mainly USA, UK, Canada, EU universities) |
| Established | 2009 | 1980 | 2016 |
Why Choose PTE over other Language Tests for Australia?
Over the past decade, interest in the Pearson Test of English (PTE) in Australia has surged, overtaking IELTS as the most searched English test since around 2018. Google Trends data shows that while IELTS once dominated, its popularity has steadily declined, while PTE’s has risen sharply driven largely by its full acceptance for Australian PR and migration, faster results, and fair, computer-based scoring. Duolingo has seen a modest increase but remains far behind both. Today, PTE stands as the clear leader for migration and study purposes in Australia.
Why Choose PTE?
The Pearson Test of English (PTE) is a computer-based English language test trusted by governments, universities, and employers worldwide. Here's why test takers around the globe prefer PTE
Fully Computer Based
No paper, no interviews, just you and your screen.
Fast Result
Get your score within 1-2 business days or, as an exception, within 5 days.
Flexible Test Dates
Choose from a wide range of dates and test centres globally.
Accepted Worldwide
Recognised by Australia, New Zealand, the UK, Canada, and 3000+ universities globally.
Fair Scoring
The automated scoring system ensures accuracy and consistency.
Professional
PTE offers a quick, modern, and user-friendly way to prove your English skills.
Why Choose IELTS?
The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a globally recognised English language proficiency test designed for non-native English speakers. It is accepted by educational institutions, employers, immigration authorities, and professional bodies across more than 140 countries.
Globally Recognized and Trusted
Accepted by over 11,000 organisations worldwide, including universities, immigration departments, and multinational companies.
Available in Two Formats
Offers both Academic and General Training modules, to study, work, and migration purposes in both paper- and computer-based exams.
Real-Life Language Skills Assessment
Tests all four language skills includes Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking, reflecting real-world usage of English Language.
Face-to-Face Speaking Test
The speaking section is conducted one-on-one with a certified examiner, offering a more natural and reliable assessment of spoken English.
Fair and Secure Testing
IELTS is developed by language experts and features strict quality control & identity verification to ensure fairness and security.
Opens Doors to Global Opportunities
An IELTS score helps you secure university admissions, work visas, and PR in countries like Australia, Canada, the UK, and New Zealand.
Why Choose Duolingo?
The Duolingo English Test is an online English proficiency exam designed for students and professionals. It is accessible, affordable, and accepted by thousands of universities and institutions worldwide.
Fully Online
Take the test from home, no need to visit a test center.
Affordable
Costs significantly less than other English tests (around $59).
Fast Results
Get your results within 48 hours from the exam time.
Widely Accepted
Accepted by 5000+ institutions globally for different courses.
Adaptive Testing
Questions adjust to your skill level for accurate assessment.
Includes Video Interview
Provides a complete view of your speaking and writing abilities.
STUDENTS SAY
Satisfaction is always present
Praksah Thapa
"Being a full-time working professional, I needed a flexible but effective platform. PTE Hub gave me exactly that. The AI-based scoring was shockingly accurate, and the speaking practice was a game-changer. Highly recommended for anyone aiming for 65+ or 79+."
Aisha Khan
"I had just one chance to get my required PTE score due to visa timelines. Thanks to PTE Hub’s targeted mock tests and expert feedback, I scored 79+ in all sections! The support in Nepali made things much easier for me to understand and improve quickly."
Sameer Gupta
"PTE Hub has the perfect mix of prediction files, instant scoring, and expert guidance. The one-on-one sessions gave me real clarity on where I was going wrong. I got my desired score in just one attempt!"
Sneha Sharma
"The speaking templates and time-bound practice modules were amazing. I was struggling with writing, but PTE Hub’s AI-evaluated answers helped me fix my mistakes instantly. Got 79+ overall and now heading to NZ!"
More than 3,000+ students trust and study at PTEHUB
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There are millions of people out there who want to join PTE classes like yours. If you want to learn and share what you know, PTEHUb is a unique place to do just that.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTION
General Question
Which is easier, IELTS or PTE or Duolingo?
Talking about difficulty level, IELTS and TOEFL are more difficult to score than PTE and Duolingo. IELTS and TOEFL require comparatively more consistent practice and preparation before the tests.
Which part of PTE is difficult?
After considering the difficulty of each section, it’s clear that the hardest section of the PTE Academic exam will vary depending on the individual. However, based on general feedback and the skills required, the listening section, particularly the summarised spoken text task, is often talked about as the most challenging.
How many attempts are available for PTE?
There’s no limit to how many times a candidate can take the PTE Academic exam. You can retake the test as many times as needed, but you must wait until you’ve received the results from your previous attempt before booking another one. You can also only book one test at a time, and tests can be booked up to 6 months in advance.
Can I pass PTE without preparation?
Even for native English speakers, preparing for the PTE Academic is essential. Some test takers who are confident in their fluency often find themselves scoring lower than expected. A lack of preparation can significantly affect performance.
Is PTE valid for 3 years in Australia?
Yes, in Australia, PTE Academic scores are valid for three years for most visa and immigration purposes. While the official PTE score report might only show a validity of two years, the Australian Department of Home Affairs recognises a three-year validity for immigration applications.
