IELTS vs PTE vs TOEFL for Australian Migration - Which Should You Take?

You need an English language test for Australian skilled migration. But which one should you take? Here is an honest comparison.

The three main options

IELTS Academic

• Cost: $395-$420
• Format: 4 sections (listening, reading, writing, speaking). Speaking is face-to-face with an examiner.
• Results: 13 calendar days
• Validity: 3 years for migration

PTE Academic

• Cost: $395-$420
• Format: 3 sections (speaking/writing combined, reading, listening). Entirely computer-based.
• Results: Usually within 2 business days
• Validity: 3 years for migration

TOEFL iBT

• Cost: $300-$350
• Format: 4 sections. Computer-based, including speaking into a microphone.
• Results: 4-8 days
• Validity: 2 years

Score equivalents for migration

For 20 migration points (Superior English):

• IELTS: 8.0 in each band
• PTE: 79+ in each section
• TOEFL: 24+ listening, 24+ reading, 27+ writing, 23+ speaking

For 10 migration points (Proficient English):

• IELTS: 7.0 in each band
• PTE: 65+ in each section
• TOEFL: 24+ listening, 24+ reading, 27+ writing, 23+ speaking

Which test is “easier”?

This is subjective, but patterns emerge:

• PTE tends to favour people who are comfortable with technology and fast-paced tasks. The computer-scored format means no examiner subjectivity.
• IELTS tends to favour people who prefer face-to-face speaking tests and handwritten essays.
• TOEFL is less popular for Australian migration but may suit those already familiar with the format from US university applications.

My recommendation

If you have not taken either test before, try a practice test for both IELTS and PTE. Most people find one format suits them better than the other. The fastest results come from PTE (2 days), which means you can retake more quickly if needed.

Check how your English score affects your points total with the points calculator.