If you’re planning to study abroad or apply for a student visa, proving your English ability is non-negotiable. Universities, colleges, and immigration authorities rely on standardized English tests to check whether you can read, write, listen, and speak effectively in academic and professional settings. But with several options available — IELTS PTE LanguageCert Oxford Test and Duolingo English Test — the obvious question is: Which one should I take?
The truth is, no single exam is “best” for everyone. The right test depends on your destination country, target university, timeline, budget, and comfort with computers. In this guide, we break down each test in depth, compare them side-by-side, highlight common mistakes students make, and show you how to choose the exam that fits your unique situation.
At Premier English House (PEH), our British Council–certified trainers have helped thousands of students pick the right exam and score competitively. If you’re just starting, you might also find our breakdown of English levels A2, B1, B2 explained helpful to gauge your current level.
Let’s discover together how IELTS, PTE, LanguageCert, Oxford Test of English, and Duolingo differ in their formats, scoring systems, and delivery methods. We’ll also explore their result timelines, global recognition, and the difficulty levels you can expect. To make things easier, you’ll find a practical comparison table that highlights all the important details at a glance. Along the way, we’ll look at real-world scenarios — like which test is best for studying in the UK, Australia, Canada, or the USA, and which one is ideal if you need quick results, are on a budget, or prefer online convenience. You’ll also learn about the common mistakes students often make when choosing a test and how you can avoid them. Finally, we’ll see how Premier English House helps students prepare with targeted strategies, realistic mock tests, and personalized feedback to boost your chances of success.
Table of Contents
Why English Proficiency Tests Matter?
Your English test score is more than a number; it’s a gatekeeper for:
- Admissions: Universities set minimum English requirements to ensure you can handle lectures, assignments, and group work.
- Visas: Many countries require proof of English for student visas.
- Scholarships & placements: Strong scores can strengthen your application.
- Confidence: Preparing well improves your day-to-day communication abroad.
Because policies change and recognition varies by country and school, always check your target institution’s latest requirements — and use official sources when in doubt:
IELTS: Global Recognition & Human-Marked Speaking
What it is: The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is the most recognized English exam worldwide, accepted by universities, employers, and immigration bodies across the UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Europe, and the USA.
Format: Listening, Reading, Writing, and a face-to-face Speaking interview with an examiner.
Delivery: In Pakistan, students overwhelmingly book computer-delivered IELTS; the speaking test remains in person (or video call in some centers).
Results: Typically 2–5 days for computer-delivered; many candidates receive results in about 48 hours.
Scoring: Each section is graded 0–9; your Overall Band is the average (e.g., 6.5, 7.0).
Perception of difficulty: Generally more challenging than PTE or Duolingo, especially Writing (Task 2 essay coherence, lexical resource) and Speaking (fluency, range, accuracy) because human examiners assess performance.
Who should choose IELTS?
- If You’re applying to UK/Canada/Australia/NZ/Europe and want maximum recognition.
- If You prefer human interaction in Speaking and a more traditional academic test.
- You’re comfortable writing essays on a computer and discussing familiar topics in an interview.
Useful reads from PEH:
- Fee breakdown: IELTS fee in Pakistan
- Speaking tips: IELTS Speaking tips for beginners
- Intensive coaching: Enroll in the best IELTS preparation academy in Lahore
Pros:
- Widest global recognition; safe choice if you’re applying broadly
- Human speaking test feels more natural to many students
- Academic & General Training versions for study vs. immigration
Cons:
- Writing is demanding; bands often plateau without expert feedback
- Speaking with an examiner can be intimidating if you’re shy
PTE: Fast Results with AI Scoring
What it is: The Pearson Test of English (PTE Academic) is a fully computer-based exam with AI-assisted scoring, popular for its speed, consistency, and convenience.
Format: Speaking & Writing (together), Reading, Listening — all on a computer and recorded.
Delivery: Computer only.
Results: Often within 24–48 hours.
Scoring: 10–90 scale with detailed sub scores (oral fluency, pronunciation, grammar, etc.).
Perception of difficulty: Many find PTE more approachable than IELTS, especially if they’re tech-savvy and type quickly. Some struggle with pronunciation recognition and rapid task switching.
Who should choose PTE?
- You want fast results and a fully computerized experience.
- You’re applying to Australia, New Zealand, the UK, or universities that explicitly accept PTE.
- You prefer clear, objective-feeling scoring.
Helpful PEH resources:
- Updated centers: PTE test center in Pakistan
- Cost guide: PTE test fee in Pakistan
- Comparison: IELTS vs PTE – Which test should you choose?
Pros
- Rapid results (great for tight deadlines)
- Computerized consistency; no face-to-face speaking anxiety
- Detailed feedback helps you focus your prep
Cons
- Speaking is mic-based; accent/pronunciation recognition can feel strict
- Some institutions still prefer IELTS, depending on program/visa
LanguageCert: Flexible, Fast, and UK-Friendly
What it is: LanguageCert International ESOL offers flexible scheduling (including online-proctored sessions) and quick turnaround — a practical choice for students targeting the UK and Europe.
Format: Listening, Reading, Writing (written exam) and a separate Speaking exam.
Delivery: Test center or online proctored from home; speaking may be live with an examiner online.
Results: Usually within 3–5 business days, with a convenient e-certificate.
Scoring: Graded by CEFR levels (A1–C2) with Pass/Merit/Distinction.
Who should choose LanguageCert?
- You need flexible scheduling and relatively fast results.
- You’re targeting institutions that explicitly list LanguageCert among accepted tests.
- You like having speaking separate, so you can focus better.
Pros
- Online option is convenient; frequent availability
- Modular approach (speaking separate) can reduce stress
- Increasing recognition, especially in the UK/Europe
Cons
- Still not as universally known as IELTS
- Availability/recognition can vary by program; always verify
Oxford Test of English: University-Backed, Modular
What it is: The Oxford Test of English (OTE) is developed by the University of Oxford and is modular, meaning you can take each skill (Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing) separately.
Format: Adaptive test items; four distinct modules
Delivery: Computer-based via approved centers, with growing availability
Results: Typically within about 14 days
Scoring: CEFR-aligned (A2, B1, B2, and sometimes C1 profiling)
Who should choose OTE?
- You’re applying to universities that specifically list the Oxford Test.
- You prefer modular flexibility (e.g., retake one skill instead of the entire exam).
- You want an adaptive test that responds to your level.
Pros
- Adaptive design can be efficient and fair
- Modular retakes can save time and cost
- Oxford’s brand inspires confidence
Cons
- Recognition is growing but not universal
- Fewer prep materials compared to IELTS/PTE
Duolingo English Test: Affordable, At-Home, and Quick
What it is: The Duolingo English Test (DET) is a fully online, at-home exam with remote proctoring. It’s affordable and quick — ideal if you need a budget-friendly option or rapid results.
Format: Short, adaptive tasks covering reading, listening, writing, and speaking; a brief video interview and writing sample may be included for universities.
Delivery: Online from home (ensure quiet room, valid ID, webcam, and stable internet).
Results: Typically within 48 hours.
Scoring: 10–160 scale, often mapped to CEFR levels.
Recognition: Accepted by thousands of universities (especially in the USA and Canada); however, immigration usage is limited.
Who should choose Duolingo?
- You need a low-cost, fast, and convenient test.
- Your target universities explicitly accept DET.
- You’re applying primarily to US/Canadian institutions open to modern assessments.
Pros
- Cheapest and fastest to schedule
- Entirely at home; perfect for remote locations
- Great for early applications or quick conditional offers
Cons
- Not widely used for visa decisions
- Some universities/programs still prefer IELTS/PTE/TOEFL
PEH tip: Want to build everyday fluency alongside test prep? Try our vocabulary post: Everyday Urdu words in English.
Comparison Table: IELTS vs PTE vs LanguageCert vs Oxford vs Duolingo
| Feature | IELTS | PTE Academic | LanguageCert | Oxford Test of English | Duolingo English Test |
| Skills Tested | Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking | Speaking+Writing, Reading, Listening | Listening, Reading, Writing (+ separate Speaking) | Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking | Integrated adaptive tasks + video interview |
| Delivery | Predominantly computer-delivered in Pakistan; in-person Speaking | Fully computer-based | Test center or online proctored | Computer-based via approved centers | Online at home (remote proctoring) |
| Scoring | 0–9 band per skill & overall | 10–90 with subscores | CEFR-aligned (A1–C2), Pass/Merit/Distinction | CEFR-aligned (A2–B2/C1 profiling) | 10–160 (CEFR-mapped) |
| Typical Results | 2–5 days (often ~48 hours) | 24–48 hours | 3–5 business days | ~14 days | ~48 hours |
| Recognition | Global: UK, Canada, Australia, NZ, Europe, USA | Global; strong for AU/NZ/UK | Growing; strong in UK/Europe | Selective; Europe/partner institutions | Thousands of unis (esp. USA/Canada); limited for visas |
| Speaking | Live examiner (in person or video) | Mic-based (AI scored + human checks) | Live or recorded (often separate) | Module-based, examiner-assessed | Recorded responses + human review |
| Best For | Broad international applications; human-marked speaking | Fast decisions; tech-confident students | Flexible schedules; UK/Europe focus | Modular retakes; Oxford-listed unis | Budget/remote applicants; quick turnaround |
Always confirm acceptance on the official university or visa website. Use these official pages for details: IELTS, PTE, LanguageCert, Oxford Test, Duolingo English Test.
Score Levels & What Universities Typically Expect
Every institution sets its own thresholds, but these broad patterns help you plan:
IELTS Academic:
Many undergraduate programs ask for 6.0–6.5 overall (with ≥6.0 in each skill); competitive or postgraduate programs may need 6.5–7.0+.
PTE Academic:
Many UG programs ask for 50–58; more selective programs may require 60–65+ (and sometimes 70+ for top-tier).
Duolingo:
Common ranges are 95–110 for many courses; selective programs may ask 120–130+.
LanguageCert:
Universities often specify B2 or above for direct entry; C1 for competitive programs.
Oxford Test:
Institutions typically require B2 for undergraduate entry (check program-specific expectations).
Which Test Should You Choose? IELTS PTE LanguageCert Oxford Test and Duolingo (Destination & Situation-Based Advice)
If your destination is the UK
- Safest picks: IELTS Academic or PTE Academic (widely accepted).
- Also consider: LanguageCert (check your university’s accepted list).
- Not preferred for visas: Duolingo.
If your destination is Australia or New Zealand
- PTE Academic enjoys strong recognition for both universities and immigration.
- IELTS Academic is also widely accepted; many students in AU/NZ still prefer it.
If your destination is Canada
- Universities commonly accept IELTS and PTE; many also accept Duolingo (program-dependent).
- For immigration, always check IRCC’s current accepted list (policy can change).
If your destination is the USA
- Many universities accept IELTS, PTE, Duolingo, and TOEFL (not covered in this post).
- Check program pages carefully — engineering and health programs can be stricter.
If you need fast results
- PTE and Duolingo typically release results within 48 hours.
- Computer-delivered IELTS often returns results in 2–5 days (many see ~48 hours).
If you’re budget-conscious
- Duolingo is the most affordable option.
- If your chosen university accepts DET, it’s a cost-effective route for early offers.
If you prefer human interaction
IELTS Speaking with a live examiner can be reassuring and more natural.
If you prefer computers and consistency
PTE’s AI-assisted scoring and structured tasks often feel predictable.
Common Mistakes When Choosing an English Test (and How to Avoid Them)
- Choosing the cheapest test without checking acceptance
- Fix: Confirm acceptance on the university’s official page first. If it’s not listed, email admissions.
- Booking late and missing application deadlines
- Fix: Work backward from your university deadline. Book your exam 4–6 weeks in advance to allow for retakes.
- Underestimating Speaking/Writing
- Fix: Get expert feedback early. For IELTS, review our Speaking tips for beginners. For PTE, drill pronunciation/oral fluency daily.
- Ignoring test-specific strategies
- Fix: Don’t prep “generically.” IELTS essays ≠ PTE written summaries. Train for your exam’s tasks.
- Not practicing under exam conditions
- Fix: Take timed full-length mocks. If you’re in KPK, our team can schedule center-style mocks.
- Weak foundation in everyday English
- Fix: Build core vocabulary and accuracy. Try our fluency posts and classes:
- The best English language institute in Peshawar
- The best spoken English classes in Lahore
- Everyday Urdu words in English
How Premier English House Helps You Win
At Premier English House, we don’t push one test for everyone. We evaluate your target country, timeline, budget, current level, and learning style, then recommend the most strategic path. Here’s what’s included:
- Diagnostic assessment mapped to CEFR so you know where you stand (A2, B1, B2, etc.).
- Customized study plan for IELTS, PTE, LanguageCert, Oxford Test, or Duolingo — not generic worksheets.
- British Council–certified trainers for IELTS; specialized coaches for PTE task types (Read Aloud, Repeat Sentence, Write Essay, etc.).
- Task-type mastery (e.g., IELTS Writing Task 1 data descriptions; PTE Re-Tell Lecture; Duolingo speaking prompts).
- Weekly mocks & analytics so you can see progress and fix weak areas.
- Admissions-aligned advice — which test and score to aim for based on your universities.
- Help with documentation language such as an English proficiency letter in Pakistan if your university requests it.
Conclusion
Selecting between IELTS, PTE, LanguageCert, Oxford Test, and Duolingo should never be random. Start with your destination and university list, check accepted tests, then choose the exam that fits your timeline, budget, and strengths.
- Pick IELTS for the broadest global acceptance and human-marked speaking.
- Choose PTE for speed, AI scoring, and fully computerized testing.
- Consider LanguageCert for flexible scheduling and UK/Europe-oriented acceptance.
- Opt for the Oxford Test when your university specifically lists it and you like modular retakes.
- Use Duolingo for quick, affordable, at-home testing — when your target programs explicitly accept it.
When in doubt, talk to a trainer who understands both test formats and admissions realities. That’s exactly what we do at Premier English House — align your preparation with your study abroad goals, and coach you to the score you need.
FAQs:
Which English test is easiest to pass?
Many students find Duolingo the easiest because it’s short and taken at home. However, it’s not as widely used for visas, so for maximum acceptance, IELTS or PTE is safer.
Which test gives the fastest results?
PTE and Duolingo typically release results within 48 hours. Computer-delivered IELTS usually reports results within 2–5 days (often around 48 hours).
Is Duolingo accepted for UK visas?
Generally no for visa purposes. For the UK, prioritize IELTS Academic or PTE Academic, and check if your university also accepts LanguageCert.
What IELTS/PTE scores do most universities require?
Many universities ask for an IELTS 6.0–6.5 (with minimum subscores) or PTE 50–58. Selective programs may require IELTS 7.0+ or PTE 65–70+. Always verify on the program page.
How long are scores valid?
Most test scores (IELTS, PTE, Duolingo) are valid for two years. Some institutions may have stricter internal rules.
Should I switch tests if I miss the score once?
Not necessarily. If you were close (e.g., IELTS 6.0 with a 5.5 in Writing), targeted coaching and a retake can be faster than starting a new format. We can advise based on your mock results.
How do I decide between IELTS and PTE?
If you like human interaction and traditional essays, IELTS may suit you. If you’re tech-confident and want fast results, try PTE.
Can I prepare for multiple tests at once?
Yes, but it’s efficient to choose one and specialize in its tasks. The skill overlap helps, but task types differ significantly.
Is LanguageCert a good option for the UK?
Yes — many UK institutions accept it. Always check your specific program page and consider LanguageCert if you need fast scheduling with online proctoring.
What if my English level is below B2?
Build your base first, consider enrolling in spoken-English classes: