Whenever a student decides to study abroad, one of the most common English proficiency exams that comes to their mind is IELTS. It isn’t because any other language proficiency exam is not that important, but the fact that IELTS is a 44-year-old test and thousands of people have taken this exam for study, work, or migration abroad. When we compare IELTS and PTE, the popularity of IELTS outranks PTE. But if we talk about the value of both exams, they are equally important for a person willing to study, work, or migrate to an English-speaking country.

If you are someone who wishes to pursue their studies abroad but is confused about which one to pick from PTE vs IELTS, then in this blog we are going to ease it for you. Hence, without further ado, let’s get started.

About IELTS

Originated in 1980, IELTS, or International English Language Testing System, is one of the oldest English proficiency exams that is highly acceptable in countries like the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Poland, and more. The IELTS test score is accepted by more than 11,000 organisations across the globe, which means not only study abroad aspirants, but people who wish to work abroad can also take this English proficiency exam.

The IELTS exam is divided into three categories; IELTS Academic, IELTS General Training, and IELTS for UKVI. Where IELTS Academic is for students who wish to study abroad, IELTS GT is suitable for people who wish to migrate to an English-speaking country, and at last IELTS for UKVI is for people who wish to seek permanent residency in the UK.

The IELTS Academic, which is taken by every other study abroad aspirant, contains four different sections: reading, writing, listening, and speaking. The IELTS exam is both pen-paper based and can be taken online. The IELTS band score ranges from 0 to 9 where 0 means the applicant didn’t appear for the exam and 9 showcases their expertise in the English language. The average accepted score globally is 6.

About PTE

Originated in 1982, PTE, or Pearson Test of English, is another popular English proficiency exam that study abroad aspirants and migrants take to get visa approval for studying or working in an English-speaking country. PTE is the first-ever computer-based language proficiency exam that study abroad aspirants have been taking. This English proficiency exam is widely accepted in countries like Canada, Australia, the UK, New Zealand, and more. One of the reasons why IELTS outranks PTE is that PTE is only accepted by 3,000 organisations across the globe.

Just like any other English proficiency exam, PTE is also divided into four sections; reading, writing, listening, and speaking. However, these four sections are different in each category. The PTE Academic is a test for students who wish to study abroad where they have scores ranging between 10-90 where 10 means poor and 90 means exceptional. The average passing score for students is 50-55.

Besides the PTE Academic, there are two more categories; PTE Core and UK via tests. PTE Core is the same as IELTS General Training as it is for those who wish to work and migrate to an English-speaking foreign land. Lastly, the UK via tests by PTE is an exam for those who wish to gain permanent residency in the UK.

Difference between IELTS and PTE

As you are a study abroad aspirant or someone wishing to work in an English-speaking country, it is a must for you to know what the difference between IELTS and PTE is. Hence, to simplify the difference between the English proficiency exams, we have created a table before for your reference.

PTE VS IELTS: Which is easier?

If you know everything, every exam is easy for you, but if you don’t know the basics, every English proficiency exam will seem like a big obstacle. When you are juggling PTE vs IELTS and can’t decide which one is easier, you may feel overwhelmed.

The decision to study for the right language proficiency exam depends on your dream college and country where you want to study or work. Depending upon the requirements of the university and country, only then will you be able to know which exam you have to take and for which you should take the required tension.

Well, to ease your confusion between PTE vs IELTS which is easy, below we are mentioning some quality tips that will help you prepare for your English proficiency exam effectively.

Tips to Prepare for IELTS and PTE

When you wonder about IELTS vs PTE, which exam is easy, you may fail to find the correct answer to it. As your dream destination’s requirement plays a big role in this decision, another crucial factor is knowing what the test is about. The minute you know what exam you are facing; you will not feel overwhelmed and might even crack it on your first attempt. Hence, to make the exams to study abroad easier for you, here are some effective tips.

Understand the Test Format

As you know every study abroad English proficiency exam contains the same four sections; reading, writing, listening, and speaking. It becomes crucial for you to know and completely understand the test format. If we talk about IELTS and PTE, there are various categories of these exams, but as you are a student, the Academic exam of both tests is the most suitable one for you. Now, the IELTS academic exam is both pen-paper-based and computer-based; hence, it becomes crucial for you to attentively practice for both types and at least be attentive while preparing for the selected exam.

Create a Study Plan

The next and most important tip for students like you who wish to study abroad after the 12th is to create a study plan. Having a study plan helps in stay focused on your goal and in this manner, you will not fear the study material. When you don’t know about any test, either PTE, IELTS, or TOEFL, you may find it challenging and a little too much. But with a clear study plan in your hand that is effective as well, you may easily be able to crack the exam on your first attempt. All you must do is follow the Pomodoro technique where you study effectively for one hour and then take a break. This will increase your productivity and easily blend with your 12th-class studies.

Use Practice Tests

The next step in your preparation should be doing as many practice tests as possible. Once you have decided which exam to pick between PTE vs IELTS, you should gather all the study materials and practice tests. When you work on sample papers, you understand what kind of questions there can be and how effectively you can finish each section. The 3 hours of PTE test or 2 hours 24 minutes of the IELTS exam are divided into four crucial sections and missing any of them can lead to failure. To ensure you are on the correct path, you should take as many sample papers as possible to increase your speed and be able to answer every question.

Enhance your Skillset

Talking about answering every question in your IELTS or PTE exam, you need to enhance each of your skills. As you know every English proficiency exam is divided into four sections, each of these sections is crucial as you can’t skip any of them. Hence, when you are working hard to secure a great brand score, try working on sections you are a little weak in. For instance, if you get anxious while communicating in English with someone, you can begin with that and speak English constantly to even correct your pronunciation. Besides this, you should also work on fast reading, expanding your vocabulary, and using correct grammar and punctuation.

Find a Study Partner

To ease the burden of studies and make your revision sessions interesting you should find a study partner. Now, this study partner doesn’t have to be a fellow study abroad aspirant, it can be any of your friends who can keep you focused on your studies and ensure whatever you study, you memorise it well. The best you can do is find a guide in your study partner, someone who will not only study along with you but can also correct you when you are wrong. To find the best study partner and make the most of your study sessions, you can find a guide. One such guide, tutor, and mentor for your study abroad exams you can get is at MetaApply’s TestPrep.

Enhance Your English Skills with MetaApply’s TestPrep

To fulfill your dream of studying abroad, you must pass the obstacle of English proficiency exams. As there are various great exams you can take like PTE, IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo, etc., for your student visa, ensure you know everything before you take the test because you can’t miss the crucial opportunity. In this write-up, we have mentioned the exams, what are the commonalities and differences between them along with how you should prepare for your English proficiency exams. Moreover, as you may need personal assistance to clear your language test and make it a little easier and more understandable, we have got you covered. At MetaApply’s TestPrep masterclass, you get the chance to learn from the best experts and crack your language tests with four to five weeks of practice. So, to get to your dream destination without any challenges, contact our experts today.

Getting a degree from a foreign university is popular among students nowadays mostly due to the diverse options available in foreign countries whether they are of personal growth or professional. If you are one such individual then you need to be well-versed in the concept of studying abroad. To study in a foreign university where English is the primary language, one needs to provide an English proficiency score.

Passing the exam is crucial for every study abroad aspirant. There are various types of English proficiency exams one can take. Some of the most common entrance exams to study abroad a student has to take are GMAT, GRE, SAT, LSAT, IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, Duolingo, ACT, and MCAT. However, you must go through the university guidelines to check the eligible English proficiency exam for college admission.

In this blog, you will come across all the major study abroad tests along with the list of common assessment exams a study abroad aspirant has to take. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the ocean of knowledge.

Top Exams to Study Abroad

International students applying to foreign universities need to take certain exams to be eligible for their shortlisted universities. In English-speaking countries, students would have to take English proficiency tests along with their standardised test to get into foreign universities. Below given is the list of exams to study abroad:

1. IELTS (International English Language Testing System)

IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is the most popular English Proficiency Test for aspirants who wish to study, work, or migrate abroad. Every year, more than 3 million people take the IELTS exam. The British Council and IDP jointly own and conduct the IELTS exam.

The IELTS exam assesses the communication skills of the students in four segments such as reading, writing, speaking, and listening. The IELTS exam is scored from 0 to 9, with students who have a minimum score of 6 are accepted globally.

2. TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)

TOEFL or Test of English as a Foreign Language is another popular and globally recognised exam that is taken by the countries for admitting students to study abroad. More than 11,000 universities and 150 nations including the USA, UK, Australia, and Canada accept TOEFL scores of Indian students.

In this exam, students are required to sit for a four-hour examination administered by a computer. Also, it evaluates the mastery of the English language by scholars; this includes reading, writing, speaking, and listening comprehension. The TOEFL scores are only valid for two years after the result declaration when offering such tests for abroad studies. It is assessed by earning 0-30 points for each sector, leading to a 0-120 points overall. Each section gives a top score of 24-30.

3. PTE (Pearson Test of English)

Pearson Test of English (PTE) is an English proficiency test which is accepted by top universities in the USA, UK, Canada, and New Zealand. It gauges your ability to communicate by testing your writing, reading, listening, and speaking skills. The PTE test score is valid for 2 years for the students against the global scale of English.

The PTE test does not restrict candidates by age and does not restrict them from appearing for the PTE examination. You must be at least sixteen years of age; the exam fee is approximately Rs.13000, and this exam occurs several times in a year. PTE does not have any set of rules regarding the eligibility for the test or candidates. The exam takes place via computer and candidates are allowed a maximum of three hours.

4. Duolingo Test

Recently, the Duolingo Test has also been accepted in many countries such as the USA, Australia, and many more for students wishing to study abroad. The duration of the Duolingo test is 60 minutes.

The Duolingo Test is segregated into three segments: the introduction, adaptive test, and video interview. The Duolingo Test is scored between 10 to 160, 160 being the highest score for students with advanced knowledge of the English Language.

5. SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test)

The Scholastic Assessment Test is also conducted for UG programmes in both Canada and the United States. The test is in the written format and its purpose is to determine the subject level expertise in English and Mathematics. This exam to study abroad is divided into two sets; the first one is three hours and the other is three hours and fifty minutes the first section contains essay-based questions and the second section is on Mathematical questions. Moreover, the SAT scores are also recognised by different universities in the UK.

Do note that the SAT entails reading, writing, as well as mathematical skills in multiple-choice questions. Maths is then divided into two: with the use of a calculator and without the use of a calculator.

6. ACT (American College Testing)

American College Testing is a standardised test for the major universities’ admissions for undergraduate programmes in the USA. It measures the college academic preparedness of native and international students. Besides this, ACT scores are also recognised by Canadian universities. The students willing to study in the USA must take the three-hour American College Testing exam. However, those students who intend to apply to a particular college, have to decide between taking the SAT or the ACT.

Like most standardised tests, ACT is divided into four sections; English, Reading, Math, and Science. Furthermore, it ranges from one to 36 points for each of the divisions that are being assessed. Apart from the four sections, ACT has an option of writing an essay; this one comes with an additional 40 minutes.

7. GMAT (Graduate Management Aptitude Test)

The Graduate Management Admission Test is known to be one of the best MBA programmes for overseas education. The GMAT exam is used for admission into the best business and management universities across the globe. The GMAT exam is used to evaluate student’s performance in analytical, writing, quantitative, reading, and communication skills.

This examination is administered and supervised by the Graduate Management Admission Council. The duration of the GMAT is 2 hours 15 minutes and this examination is valid for studying in Canada, USA, and Germany.

8. GRE (Graduate Record Examination)

The Graduate Record Examination is also conducted and administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS), it is for admission to graduate school. The score of this particular study abroad exam is accepted in countries like the US, Canada and Australia. However, most European countries do not mandate GRE scores. Over 1200 business universities recognise the GRE globally.

GRE is a computer-based exam which includes students’ quantitative, writing and verbal skills. GRE consists of various sections such as analytical writing, verbal reasoning, and quantitative reasoning. Furthermore, this test is scored on a scale of 130 to 173; with 160s being the highest score.

9. MCAT (Medical College Admission Test)

The Medical College Admission Test is conducted and administered by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC). A medical entrance examination for medical schools in the United States, Canada, Australia, and the Caribbean Islands. This exam is conducted 25 times in 21 different countries in a year. They mainly apply it to gauge the students’ capacities in analysis, reasoning, psychology, and systems biology. Therefore, the MCAT is one of the tests taken for foreign studies in the medical field.

This exam has four sections: Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems; Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems; Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior; and Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills.

10. LSAT (Law School Admission Test)

LSAT is conducted and administered by the Law Admission Council. This exam to study abroad is of two types: LSAT Indian, and LSAT Abroad. The LSAT abroad is for admission into the best law schools in the USA, Australia and Canada. This test is administered six times a year; each session lasts three hours and thirty minutes.

There are three categories of scored LSAT; reading comprehension, logic games, and logical reasoning. In addition, there is one writing sample that is unscored throughout the test.

There are many other such study abroad exams for students wishing to gain overseas education; however, the list of exams we’ve covered are the most important ones you need to understand.

Conclusion

Choosing the right exam is crucial for students wanting to go for overseas education. Students are advised to check the country and university first before appearing for the examinations. MetaApply provides a one-stop platform for students by providing information and courses for all the study abroad examinations whether you’re looking for a standardised exam or any other English Proficiency Test.

With MetaApply’s TestPrep classes, you get an exclusive chance to connect with experts directly and crack your English Proficiency Exams within four to five weeks. So, if you are ready to study abroad and want complete assistance, then connect with us and get yourself consultations about the best university, online classes, financial aid, accommodations, and much more.

“Nobody can discover the world for someone else…”-Wendell Berry.
The American poet and novelist was absolutely correct when he stated this quote. What you can see and experience, you can tell a story of it to others and try your best to make them relive the moments with you; however, having firsthand experience of exploring the world is something that you would wish to do yourself. In the same way, no one else can take your IELTS online test for you, it must be you to crack it and get through it. However, you can always get assistance from experts to guide you with the right approach. As you are a study abroad aspirant or a dreamer who wishes to work and settle abroad, then IELTS is an English language proficiency test that you must take.

Today, in this blog we are going to cover everything you need to know about IELTS.

What Is IELTS?

IELTS or International English Language Testing System, is a popular English language proficiency test given by candidates who wish to study, work, or migrate abroad. This English proficiency exam is given by people who wish to go to an English-speaking country. To evaluate whether a person can survive and communicate in the native language (English language), people have to take this test. The IELTS exam is 2 hours 45 minutes long, with four major sections a test-taker must answer: reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Based on the answers of each section a candidate gets scores ranging from 0-9 where 0 means a candidate didn’t attempt the IELTS exam and 9 means the test-tasker is an expert of it.
As the IELTS test is something a person takes when they wish to go abroad, some of the major countries that accept this English proficiency exam are the UK, USA, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand. However, when taking the IELTS exam for work or study purposes, there are types of IELTS exams that a candidate should take.

Types Of IELTS Exams

Talking about the types of IELTS exams, these are not just IELTS online test or offline exams; however, there are three types of IELTS exams based on the different preferences of the candidate. The three major ITELTS exam types are:

IELTS Band Score Pattern

As we are discussing the IELTS format, you must know the exact IELTS scoring pattern. Indeed, there is no such thing as a good or bad band score, but if you are aiming to study or work abroad, you must check with your institution or the organisation about the minimum and maximum IELTS scores they accept. One of the major reasons why you should focus on the scoring pattern is that when you know what band score you are targeting, it will set a clear picture in your mind about how much practice you should do.
For your reference, below is the list of IELTS scoring patterns.

Why Choose IELTS?

When you decide to study abroad, you look out for the entire process from deciding the course and college to preparing for an English proficiency exam and where you are going to stay abroad. As you know for your visa process, providing an English proficiency exam result is crucial, before you begin your study abroad exam preparations. However, when it comes to finding a trusted test that is accepted by every institution worldwide, IELTS is the one for you. If you still wonder why, you should pick IELTS, below are the answers for you.

Be IELTS Ready With MetaApply – TestPrep

As we come to the end, we believe you have got all the IELTS information, and you might not be as scared to take up the IELTS challenge as you were at the start. IELTS might look like an overwhelming English proficiency exam but when you know how you are going to tackle this exam, everything becomes easy. To make the IELTS preparations easier for you, MetaApply is here with the exclusive TestPrep sessions. From providing IELTS online coaching to guiding you in personal one-on-one sessions, MetaApply is there for you at each step. The counsellors of MetaApply also give you mock tests to solve for your better preparation. So, if you are done gaining all the knowledge and ready to discover the world yourself, let MetaApply be your guide in doing so. Visit our experience centres in your city and enroll for a free guiding session today.

“A good education is a foundation for a better future.”- Elizabeth Warren

If you are a parent, then you will know how crucial it is for your child(ren) to get quality education for a brighter future. But if you are a student, then slowly but surely you will know the importance of quality education to build a stronger foundation for your shining future.

When we talk about the trends in today’s education, it seems like students and parents are more inclined toward practical education rather than going for theoretical knowledge. This has become one of the reasons why students prefer studying abroad. It is completely understandable if you are also a student who wishes to study abroad. Today, let’s start your journey with ease to your desired destination.

The Journey Abroad

The journey of overseas education is not an easy one. When you consider the chance of foreign yet practical education, there is a list of challenges that are always there. From finding the perfect course, university, financial aid, and a place to live there to minor yet critical challenges like feeling homesick, the planning and procedure of getting into your dream college, writing acceptable SOPs, and most importantly, clearing your English proficiency test.

As you may know, it is always better to take one step at a time, today, we are going to explore the path of English proficiency tests. In this blog, we will explore the step-by-step study guide to crack your IELTS and TOEFL exams. So, without further ado, let’s get started.

About IELTS

IELTS or International English Language Testing System, is one of the most popular English proficiency tests that is for work, study, and migration. If you are someone who wishes to study, work, or settle in a foreign land such as Australia, Canada, New Zealand, USA, etc., then this is one such test that you must take.

An IELTS exam consists of four sections; reading, writing, speaking, and listening. As these four are the most basic yet crucial parts of your English communication in a foreign land, hence, it becomes compulsory for you to take the international entrance exam for study abroad. This 30-year-old English language test is 2 hours and 45 minutes and can either be conducted online or offline based on your preference.

In the IELTS test, there is nothing as such pass or fail, there are band scores between 0 to 9 that are valid for two years. 0 indicates that the candidate didn’t appear in the exam and 9 states that the candidate is an expert in the English language. The average score to get a visa is 5. However, there is one crucial thing for students to know, if you are planning to study in the UK, you don’t need to take the IELTS test if you have a 70% or more score in your high school’s English exam.

About TOEFL

TOEFL or Test of English as a Foreign Language, is another famous English proficiency test that people intend to take to get a visa for their abroad work, study, or migration. Just like IELTS, a TOEFL exam also consists of four sections; reading, writing, listening, and speaking. To ensure you can easily find your way in an English-speaking land, you are asked to prove it with the help of such English proficiency tests.

The time duration for the TOEFL exam is between 2-2.5 hours, where the candidate gets an extra 30 minutes to do the final checks. TOEFL, just like other English proficiency tests such as DET and IETLS, is conducted to check your eligibility for an English-speaking foreign land. Your TOEFL score is accepted by more than 11,000 universities and 150+ countries like USA, UK, Canada, etc.

However, when we talk about the scorecard, validity, and exam type, then you get flexibility here as well. The score band of the TOEFL exam ranges between 0-120, with a validity of 2 years. There are two options of TOEFL exams available; TOEFL iBT (TOEFL internet-based test) and TOEFL PBT (paper-based test), which a candidate can appear in as many times as they want. However, there should be a gap of 12 days between each attempt.

As we complete our knowledge of the two different yet similar types of English proficiency tests, it is time to know the hacks with the help of which you can easily crack your ITELS or TOEFL exams.

How to Prepare for IELTS & TOEFL?

Preparing for any exam is an overwhelming task. The stress and burden of preparing constantly for an exam because the foundation of a better future depends on how well you perform in the exams. Just like every other exam, the English language proficiency tests are overwhelming too; however, with the correct strategy, you can easily crack your IELTS or TOEFL exam. This section is your ultimate step-by-step study guide to help you prepare for your English language proficiency test without worrying about anything. So, without further waiting, let’s start with the plan.

Know the Test and Format

The first and foremost step you should begin with when you start your preparations for the English language proficiency test is to know the test and format completely. Having a complete knowledge of what you are going to face in the exam will help you to prepare in a better manner. As you know there are four sections in IELTS and TOEFL exams, reading, writing, listening, and speaking, each of the sections contains different numbers of questions and timing. To be able to crack your English proficiency exams, you must be familiarise with the test type, the format, and even the type of questions that can be asked.

Set a Clear Goal

The next step you must follow in the process of IELTS preparation is to set a clear goal. As you know there are different band scores for IELTS, TOEFL, DET, etc., so it is better you know what band score you want to achieve. It is true that any English language exam is solely needed for an institution or organisation, when you know about what band score is needed to get in there, it becomes easier for you to focus on your test prep. A decided goal like the minimum TOEFL or IELTS score will help you in preparing for the exam, whether you need 8 weeks or 90 days to prepare for your exam.

Develop a Study Plan

Once you have set the goal for your IELTS or TOEFL exam and know the exam format, the next step is to develop a study plan. For efficient learning, try setting realistic study goals. You should begin by creating a timetable and dividing different time slots to practice the different English language skills. Sometimes, when you see the entire module all at once, it can be an overwhelming task, leading you to procrastinate. To be able to study efficiently, you should practice daily and instead of sitting for five hours straight, opt for the Pomodoro technique where you study for a while and then take a break.

Enhance Each Skill

As you know there are four sections in the English language proficiency test, mainly reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Based on your abilities, you will know how much time you need to invest in practicing the asked skills. Knowing that you must be fluent in each of the sections for a comfortable stay abroad, it is better if you practice every day. For some efficient tricks, you can use the morning time for reading and writing. When it comes to listening and speaking, you can use any time of the day to listen to more English content, besides that try thinking and communicating in English for fearless English speaking.

Take Mock Test

Finally, the only thing that will make you test-ready is when you take as many mock tests as possible. To know the format of an exam is good but to know what kind of questions you will be answering gives you a better understanding of the exam. So, in your IELTS preparation timeframe, it is better you not only work on the betterment of your skills but also take as many mock tests as you can. This will not only help you to know what kind of questions you will be facing, but how you can finish your exam within the allotted time. The mock test will help you figure out what your weaknesses are and how you can make them your strengths.

MetaApply- Your Personal Guide for Acing IELTS & TOEFL Exams

Talking about making your weaknesses your strengths, you need someone who can handhold you throughout the learning process. As you had your doubts about the test type or the ways to crack it, we believe this blog must have helped you. However, if you still need a better understanding of minimum TOEFL and IELTS scores or anything else, we’d suggest you connect with our experts today. Our professionals will help you prepare for your English language proficiency test in just 45 days. Your personal tutor will guide you on how you should plan your IELTS test prep sessions. Instead of feeling overwhelmed with too much on your plate, you will be more focused on one section at a time. So, if you are willing to build a stronger foundation for your future, it is better if you start today. Connect with us and take on the world of English speaking with ease.