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IELTS vs. PTE vs. TOEFL: Which English Test Should Nepalese Students Take?

February 9, 2025
PixarEdu Team

Choosing the right English proficiency test is a crucial step for Nepalese students planning to study abroad. IELTS, PTE Academic, and TOEFL iBT are the most widely recognized tests. Each has a unique format, scoring system, and level of acceptance. This guide compares these three major tests to help you decide which one is best suited for your needs.

For a quick overview and more options, visit our English Test Guide on the Book Appointment page.

Key Comparison: IELTS vs. PTE Academic vs. TOEFL iBT

| Feature | IELTS (Academic) | PTE Academic | TOEFL iBT | | :------------------ | :------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | :-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | :--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | Administered By | British Council, IDP Education, Cambridge Assessment English | Pearson PLC | Educational Testing Service (ETS) | | Test Format | Paper-based or computer-delivered. Speaking test is face-to-face with an examiner. | Entirely computer-based, including AI-scored speaking and writing. | Entirely computer-based at a test center. Speaking is recorded and rated by AI & humans. | | Sections | Listening (30m), Reading (60m), Writing (60m), Speaking (11-14m) | Speaking & Writing (combined, 54-67m), Reading (29-30m), Listening (30-43m) | Reading (35m), Listening (36m), Speaking (16m), Writing (29m) | | Total Test Time | Approx. 2h 45m (Listening, Reading, Writing together) + Speaking (separate day or same) | Approx. 2 hours | Under 2 hours | | Scoring | Band scores 0-9 for each section and overall. | Score range 10-90 for each skill and overall (Global Scale of English). | Score range 0-30 for each section, total 0-120. | | Results Time | 3-5 days (computer), 13 days (paper). | Typically within 2 days (can be up to 5). | 4-8 days (official). Unofficial Reading/Listening scores immediate. | | Acceptance | Widely accepted globally for academic and immigration purposes (UK, AUS, CAN, NZ, USA). | Widely accepted for academia and immigration (especially AUS, NZ, UK). Growing in USA & Canada. | Primarily accepted by US universities. Also accepted in Canada, Europe, AUS/NZ. | | Cost (Approx. Nepal) | ~NPR 29,000 - 35,000 | ~NPR 25,000 - 30,000 | ~NPR 27,000 - 33,000 | | Speaking Style | Interactive conversation with a human examiner. | Speaking into a microphone, tasks like Read Aloud, Describe Image, Re-tell Lecture. | Speaking into a microphone, integrated tasks (respond to reading/listening passages). | | Writing Style | Task 1 (describe visual info), Task 2 (essay). Hand-written or typed. | Summarize Written Text (one sentence), Essay. Typed. | Integrated Writing (summarize lecture/reading), Academic Discussion Task (online forum style). Typed. |

Which Test is Right for You? Considerations for Nepalese Students

1. University and Country Requirements:

  • This is the MOST important factor. Always check the specific English test requirements of the universities and visa authorities for your target country.
  • USA: TOEFL iBT is traditionally preferred by many US universities, but IELTS and PTE are also increasingly accepted.
  • Australia & New Zealand: PTE Academic and IELTS are very popular and widely accepted for both study and immigration.
  • UK: IELTS UKVI (a specific version of IELTS) is often required for visa purposes. PTE Academic UKVI and TOEFL are also accepted by many institutions.
  • Canada: IELTS is highly popular. TOEFL and PTE are also accepted by most universities. SDS visa route has specific IELTS requirements. (Read our blog on Canada SDS vs Non-SDS).

2. Your Strengths and Weaknesses:

  • Speaking:
    • If you are comfortable speaking face-to-face and prefer human interaction, IELTS might be better.
    • If you are more comfortable speaking to a computer and are good at tasks like describing images or re-telling lectures, PTE could be a good fit. Its AI scoring might be perceived as more objective by some.
    • TOEFL speaking involves more integrated tasks, requiring you to synthesize information from reading/listening.
  • Writing:
    • IELTS requires two distinct tasks. If you prefer handwriting, the paper-based IELTS is an option.
    • PTE writing tasks are integrated with speaking and involve summarizing and essay writing. Typing speed is beneficial.
    • TOEFL writing also involves integrated tasks and a new academic discussion task. Strong typing skills are helpful.
  • Typing Speed: Crucial for PTE and TOEFL as they are entirely computer-based. Less critical for IELTS if you choose the paper-based option.
  • Accent Familiarity: IELTS and TOEFL expose you to a range of native English accents. PTE is also global.

3. Test Availability and Result Speed:

  • PTE generally offers the fastest results, which can be an advantage if you have tight deadlines.
  • IELTS and TOEFL results take a bit longer.
  • Check test date availability in Nepal for all three.

4. Personal Preference and Comfort:

  • Some students find the AI scoring of PTE less intimidating than a face-to-face IELTS speaking test. Others prefer human interaction.
  • Consider taking official sample tests for each to see which format you feel more comfortable with. (Free Practice Resources).

How PixarEdu Can Help You Prepare

No matter which test you choose, PixarEdu offers expert preparation classes in Nepal for:

  • IELTS (Academic and General Training)
  • PTE Academic
  • TOEFL iBT
  • Duolingo English Test

Our experienced instructors provide:

  • Comprehensive coverage of all test sections.
  • Test-taking strategies and tips.
  • Regular mock tests and personalized feedback.
  • Guidance on achieving your target score for university admission and visa applications.

Conclusion

The "best" English test depends on your target institutions, personal strengths, and comfort level with the test format. Research university requirements carefully. If multiple tests are accepted, consider taking a diagnostic or sample test for each to see where you perform best.

Need help deciding or preparing? Contact PixarEdu today for expert advice and enrollment in our test preparation courses. Also, understand [how long it might take to prepare for IELTS](/blog/how-long-does

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