PTE Academic Format
- Computer-based assessment
- Speaking and writing tasks are completed using a computer
- Reading and listening contain multiple question types
- Several tasks integrate more than one English skill
- Scores are reported on a 10–90 scale
Why PTE?
PTE vs TOEFL: Complete Comparison of Format, Scoring, Cost & Acceptance
Choosing between PTE Academic and TOEFL iBT depends on where you plan to study or migrate, which test your institution or pathway accepts, the score you need, and the test format that fits your preparation style.
Both tests assess English language skills, including reading, listening, speaking and writing, but they use different test structures and scoring systems. TOEFL iBT also introduced a major scoring change in January 2026, so older PTE vs TOEFL comparisons may contain outdated information.
Quick answer: PTE Academic uses a 10–90 score scale and is a computer-based English test that integrates skills across different question types. TOEFL iBT now reports scores on a 1–6 scale in half-point increments, with a comparable 0–120 overall score shown during the transition period. The right test depends on the exact university, course, visa or immigration requirement you need to meet.
PTE vs TOEFL at a Glance
Feature
PTE Academic
TOEFL iBT
Skills assessed
Speaking, Writing, Reading and Listening
Reading, Listening, Speaking and Writing
Current score scale
10–90
1–6 in half-point increments
Previous TOEFL scale
Not applicable
0–120; comparable overall scores are shown during the transition period
Test format
Computer-based
Computer-based
Speaking
Responses are recorded through the computer
Responses are recorded through the computer
Test duration
Approximately 2 hours
Approximately 2 hours; timing can vary with the adaptive format
Results
Typically within 48 hours
Timing depends on the current ETS score-reporting process
Main use
Study and selected migration/visa pathways
Primarily academic study and other accepted English-language requirements
What Is PTE Academic?
PTE Academic is a computer-based English language proficiency test from Pearson. It assesses the four communicative skills: speaking, writing, reading and listening.
PTE Academic uses a 10–90 score scale. Candidates receive an overall score as well as scores for individual communicative skills. Pearson also provides a Skills Profile to help test takers understand their performance.
PTE uses a range of question types and includes tasks that can assess more than one skill. This means candidates need to understand both the individual question types and how skills are combined within the test.
What Is TOEFL iBT?
TOEFL iBT is an English proficiency test developed by ETS. It measures reading, listening, speaking and writing, with content designed around academic and educational contexts.
TOEFL iBT changed its score reporting system on January 21, 2026. Current score reports use a 1–6 scale in half-point increments for each section and the overall score. During a two-year transition period, score reports also include a comparable overall score on the previous 0–120 scale.
Important 2026 TOEFL update
If you are comparing PTE and TOEFL using an older article, check whether the TOEFL information reflects the January 2026 scoring change. Older pages may still describe 0–120 as the main current score scale.
PTE vs TOEFL: Key Differences
The biggest differences between PTE and TOEFL are the scoring system, question structure, test experience and the way individual skills are assessed.
Area
PTE Academic
TOEFL iBT
Scoring
10–90
1–6 from January 2026
Test approach
Computer-based tasks with integrated skills
Academic English tasks with integrated skills
Speaking
Recorded responses
Recorded responses
Results
Typically within 48 hours
Check the current ETS reporting timeline
At-home availability
Depends on the applicable PTE product and location
TOEFL iBT Home Edition is available in supported locations
Requirement checking
Institution/pathway specific
Institution/pathway specific
PTE vs TOEFL Test Format
Both PTE Academic and TOEFL iBT are computer-based tests, but the tasks and testing experience are different. Understanding the format before choosing a test can help you select a preparation strategy that matches your needs.
TOEFL iBT Format
- Computer-based assessment
- Reading, listening, speaking and writing sections
- Academic and educational contexts
- Current format is adaptive
- Scores are reported on a 1–6 scale from January 2026
PTE vs TOEFL Scoring
PTE and TOEFL use different scoring systems, so their numbers should not be treated as if they were directly interchangeable.
PTE Academic scoring
PTE Academic reports an overall score from 10 to 90. Candidates also receive individual communicative skill scores for speaking, writing, reading and listening.
Your target PTE score should always be based on the requirement of your university, course, visa or other application pathway rather than on a general idea of what constitutes a "good" score.
TOEFL scoring in 2026
From January 21, 2026, TOEFL iBT reports four section scores and an overall score on a 1–6 scale in half-point increments.
The overall TOEFL score is calculated from the four section scores and rounded to the nearest half band. During the two-year transition period, TOEFL score reports also include a comparable overall score on the traditional 0–120 scale.
Do not use old TOEFL tables without checking the date
If you find a PTE vs TOEFL comparison showing only TOEFL 0–120 scores, check whether it relates to a test taken before January 21, 2026. Current TOEFL reporting uses the 1–6 scale.
If you want to understand PTE scores in more detail, see the PTE score Calculator.
PTE vs TOEFL Speaking
Speaking is one of the most noticeable areas to compare when choosing between PTE and TOEFL.
Feature
PTE Academic
TOEFL iBT
Response method
Speak into a computer microphone
Speak into a computer microphone
Task style
Includes different speaking and integrated tasks
Includes structured speaking tasks within the TOEFL format
Human conversation
No face-to-face speaking interview
No face-to-face speaking interview
Preparation focus
Fluency, pronunciation, content and task-specific response skills
Fluency, delivery, academic communication and task-specific response skills
Neither format is automatically easier for every candidate. Your experience can depend on how comfortable you are with recorded responses, timed speaking tasks and integrated questions.
PTE vs TOEFL Reading
Both tests measure your ability to understand written English, but the question structures and timing are different.
PTE Reading includes several computer-based question types that can test comprehension, vocabulary, grammar and the ability to identify relationships between information.
TOEFL Reading focuses on academic and everyday reading situations in the current adaptive format. Candidates should become familiar with the current ETS task types instead of preparing only from older TOEFL materials.
PTE vs TOEFL Writing
PTE and TOEFL both require candidates to produce written English, but the task structures are different.
PTE writing preparation should focus on understanding each question type, organising information, grammar, vocabulary and accurate written responses.
TOEFL writing preparation should follow the current 2026 format and include practice with the types of writing tasks used by ETS.
When comparing writing requirements, always use current official test specifications because question formats can change over time.
PTE vs TOEFL Listening
Listening is assessed in both tests, but the task types, audio content and response requirements differ.
PTE candidates should practise listening for key information, detail, relationships between ideas and integrated tasks. TOEFL candidates should become comfortable with academic and conversational listening content and the current question formats.
Note-taking, concentration and time management can be important preparation areas for either test.
PTE vs TOEFL Duration
Current PTE Academic and TOEFL iBT test experiences are both designed to be completed in roughly two hours, although the exact experience can vary depending on the test format and administration.
Test
Approximate duration
Important note
PTE Academic
About 2 hours
Exact timing depends on the test structure and administration.
TOEFL iBT
About 2 hours
The adaptive format means timing and item counts can vary.
PTE vs TOEFL Results
PTE results
Pearson states that PTE Academic scores are typically available within 48 hours, although candidates should allow for the possibility of additional processing time.
TOEFL results
TOEFL score reporting depends on the current ETS process and how the test was taken. Candidates should check the current ETS information when planning an application deadline.
Result speed should not be the only factor in choosing a test. The most important first step is to confirm that the test is accepted for your intended purpose.
PTE vs TOEFL for Australia
Australia has different English-language requirements depending on whether you are applying for university admission, a visa or another pathway.
For Australian visa purposes, the Department of Home Affairs currently lists both PTE Academic and TOEFL iBT among approved English tests, subject to the applicable requirements. For TOEFL iBT, applicants must select the "Taking TOEFL iBT" pathway when registering so the result can be used for Australian visa purposes.
The Department also states that completely online or remote-proctored English tests are not accepted as evidence for Australian visa purposes.
If your goal is Australian permanent residency, English scores are only one part of the wider points and eligibility process. You can use the Australian PR Point Calculator to explore the points framework separately.
Australia reminder
Do not use a university admission requirement as a substitute for a visa requirement. Always check the Department of Home Affairs rules for your specific visa.
PTE vs TOEFL for Canada
Canada has different English-language requirements for education and immigration.
For Canadian universities and colleges
Universities and colleges can set their own English-language requirements. Check the official admission page for your chosen institution and programme to confirm whether PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT or another test is accepted.
For Canadian immigration
The distinction between PTE Academic and PTE Core is especially important. For Express Entry, IRCC lists as an approved English test. PTE Academic should not be treated as a substitute for PTE Core for Express Entry.
Always check the current IRCC requirements before taking a test for Canadian immigration.
PTE vs TOEFL for the UK
UK requirements depend on whether you are applying to a university or using English-language evidence for immigration.
For UK university admission
Universities and individual courses can set their own English-language requirements. Check the university's official admissions page to confirm the accepted test and minimum score.
For UK immigration
UK immigration routes can require a Secure English Language Test, or SELT. GOV.UK states that the required English level depends on the immigration route and that applicants must use an approved test at an approved location when a SELT is required.
Pearson's approved UK immigration products include PTE Academic UKVI and PTE Home for the routes where they are specified. Do not assume that a standard university English test is automatically valid for every UK immigration application.
PTE vs TOEFL for University Admission
For university admission, the most important question is not simply whether PTE or TOEFL is more popular. It is whether your chosen institution and programme accept the test and what score they require.
Some universities publish only an overall score requirement, while others may specify minimum scores for individual skills. Requirements can also differ between undergraduate, postgraduate and professional programmes.
What to check
Why it matters
Accepted English tests
The university may accept some tests but not others.
Overall score
You need to meet the required overall English level.
Section scores
Some programmes specify minimum scores for individual skills.
Course requirements
Requirements can differ by programme or faculty.
Test validity
Check how recent your result must be when applying.
Application deadline
Choose a test date that leaves enough time for results.
PTE vs TOEFL: Which Test Matches Your Requirements?
There is no single test that is suitable for every candidate. Your decision should start with the requirement you need to meet.
PTE may fit your requirements if:
- Your university or pathway accepts PTE Academic.
- You are comfortable with a computer-based test.
- You prefer the PTE question structure.
- The available PTE test dates fit your application deadline.
- Your required score is clearly stated in PTE terms.
TOEFL may fit your requirements if:
- Your university or pathway accepts TOEFL iBT.
- You are comfortable with TOEFL's academic test format.
- You understand the current 1–6 TOEFL scoring system.
- The available TOEFL test dates fit your deadline.
- Your institution has clearly published its TOEFL requirement.
The first question to ask
Before comparing preparation difficulty or test duration, check which English test your university, visa category or immigration programme actually accepts.
How to Prepare for PTE
If you decide to take PTE Academic, preparation should begin with the current test format rather than memorising isolated answers.
- 1Understand the current PTE Academic test structure.
- 2Learn the instructions for every question type.
- 3
- 4Use timed practice to improve response management.
- 5Complete realistic mock tests.
- 6Review mistakes instead of only counting correct answers.
- 7Track your performance across the four skills.
- 8Set a target based on your actual university or pathway requirement.
You can start with these PTE preparation materials to organise your study resources.
Regular PTE practice online can also help you become familiar with the computer-based test experience and timing.
Before your exam, complete a realistic PTE practice test to identify areas that still need improvement.
If you want to understand how automated scoring is used in PTE, read the guide to PTE AI scoring.
STUDENTS SAY
Satisfaction is always present
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Software Engineer
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Start Preparing for PTE
If PTE Academic is accepted for your target university or pathway, build your preparation around the current test format, regular practice and realistic mock tests.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTION
General Question
What is the difference between PTE and TOEFL?
PTE Academic and TOEFL iBT both assess reading, listening, speaking and writing, but their test structures, question types and scoring systems differ. PTE uses a 10–90 scale, while TOEFL uses a 1–6 scale from January 2026, with a comparable 0–120 overall score during the transition period.
Is PTE easier than TOEFL?
There is no universal answer because test difficulty can vary by candidate. Compare the question types, speaking format, writing tasks, timing and scoring system with your own strengths rather than assuming that one test is easier.
What is the PTE score range?
PTE Academic uses a score scale from 10 to 90. Candidates receive an overall score and individual communicative skill scores. Your required PTE score depends on the university, programme, visa or other pathway you are applying for.
Which test gives faster results, PTE or TOEFL?
Pearson states that PTE Academic scores are typically available within 48 hours. TOEFL reporting follows ETS procedures and timing can vary. If timing is important, check the current official result timeline before booking either test.
Is PTE accepted by universities? in Australia?
Yes, PTE Academic is accepted by many universities and higher-education institutions, but acceptance and score requirements can vary by institution and programme. Always check your university’s official admission requirements before booking the test.
Is PTE Academic the same as PTE Core?
No. PTE Academic and PTE Core are different versions of Pearson’s English test. PTE Academic is widely used for academic study and selected visa purposes, while PTE Core is listed by IRCC for Canadian economic immigration programmes such as Express Entry.
