Do you also get confused between IELTS, PTE, OET and TOEFL?
All of these are language proficiency tests that assess an individual’s ability to communicate well in English with the native speakers of an English speaking country.
Each one of these tests is standardized and is accepted widely by academic institutions, immigration offices, organizations and other firms.
However, there are subtle differences that exist among each of these. Let us browse through how each is different in the table below.
| IELTS | TOEFL | PTE | OET |
| Both paper & computer based | Computer-based | Fully computerized | Both paper & computer based |
| Speaking section has a personal interview | One has to communicate virtually through a computer | One has to communicate virtually through a computer | A role play is usually assigned and then the spoken skills are assessed. |
| The British mode of English is followed | Standard American English is followed | Standard American English is followed | Both British American English are followed |
| Essays are tricky and need to be dealt with strategically. | Essays are lengthier | Essays are quite easy to write | Writing is profession-specific |
| Short answers come | MCQ type questions come | PTE is a combination of both short answers & MCQs | Short answer questions and completing sentences type questions come |
| 2 hour, 45 minutes long | Almost 4 hour long | 3 hour long | 3 hour, 20 minutes |
Costs ₹12, 650 |
Costs ₹ 12, 500 |
Costs ₹ 13, 300 |
Costs ₹ 30,000 |
Results come within 13 days of the examination |
Scores come within 10 days of appearing for the exam |
Results come out within a week |
Results come out within 12 days |
By now, you must have had an idea of how each of these tests are distinct from one another. The differences that exist are not very stark but are purpose-driven.
Whichever language proficiency test you choose to opt for, you must be very certain with regard to its effectiveness in the country that you’re relocating to.
Do not view any of them as an obstacle. You should see these tests as the key that helps you in proving your eligibility as well as your ability to communicate well in the language you will largely be conversing in.
English 
Hindi