What Is the Task Difference Between IELTS and PTE Exam?

You must choose between two English language skills tests: the IELTS and PTE exam for your studies abroad or work purposes. However, both ultimately grant test takers a chance to study, migrate, or work in a country where English is a native language. IELTS vs PTE still have their unique differences. Moreover, the PTE-Academic (PTE-A) is a two-hour exam conducted entirely via computer that assesses your ability in speaking, listening, reading, and writing.

Similarly, the IELTS exam tests your speaking, writing, listening, and reading skills. But it can be done physically at a test center and offers both paper and computer-based options for you.

Furthermore, to help you gain a better understanding of both tests, below are the differences that can aid you in making a decision.

Structure of IELTS and PTE Exam

While preparing for language examinations, understand the nuances of the structure of the test. Also, time requirements are critical when planning for success. This section is focused on providing exactly that information.

In the IELTS exam, four sections are sequenced in the following order:

  • Listening
  • Reading
  • Writing
  • Speaking

In the PTE test, there are three parts, which are sequenced below:

  • Speaking and Writing (Combined Section)
  • Reading
  • Listening

Moreover, the details of each section for PTE vs IELTS are summarized below:

  • Listening:
  • PTE: In this section which varies between 45 and 57 minutes, answer a series of questions based on audio and video clips.
  • IELTS: You need to answer 40 questions in 30 minutes across four recordings.
  • Reading:
  • PTE: In 32-40 minutes, complete objective exercises such as MCQs, filling in the blanks, and others.
  • IELTS: You have to answer 40 questions in 30 minutes across the passage.
  • Writing:
  • PTE: Writing and speaking, these two sections are merged in the PTE throughout 77 to 93 minutes. So, you must complete the syllabus of PTE that includes diverse tasks, such as introducing yourself, reading aloud, and many more.
  • IELTS: There are two essays to write in 60 minutes. Thus, the first is analyzing visual graphs/data, while the second is an argumentative question to discuss a point of view.
  • Speaking:
  • IELTS: This section needs you to speak to the examiner about themselves, give an opinion about an issue or finally discuss abstract concepts.

That was the difference between IELTS vs PTE for each section.

Task Types

While some of the tasks within the tests might seem quite different, they often test the same skills. Let’s take a look below:

Reading

The reading section of IELTS and PTE differs in terms of structure and timing. In PTE, students answer fewer questions over a significantly shorter time. There are more individual texts, but they are shorter. Moreover, they are only asked one question per text. So, if they are not sure about the meaning of a text, they can move one, with more options to prove their skills. They would not be asked five questions about one single text.

Learners will need to focus on the meaning of the passage and be able to identify the main theme, purpose, and tone of the text. Skimming and scanning for details are also important skills, as this is the ability to infer meaning. The best way to ensure success in the section is to make sure test takers are reading widely and daily.

Listening

The listening sections in IELTS and PTE are significantly different. Take a look at the table below for a clear understanding.

IELTS has conversion and monologues set in social contexts. In contrast, seven out of the eight PTE recordings are from authentic academic sources. Similar to the reading section, the IELTS exam has fewer recordings but more questions.

What’s more, the task types are quite different. Some of the IELTS academic tasks need students to complete a sentence, label a map or diagram, and match answers. Some of the PTE exam tasks students to highlight correct summaries, underline incorrect words, and write for dictation.

Whether students are working towards IELTS vs PTE, you will be teaching them broadly similar skills. To score in the listening section, your learners will have to be able to listen for gist and details. They will need to identify words and phrases correct to the context. Note-taking skills can also contribute to a student’s success. Thus, it is important to make sure test takers are getting plenty of practice at taking note of the key, the right information, while also listening for overall comprehension.

Speaking and Writing    

There is a big difference between IELTS and PTE in that the speaking and writing sections are individual in IELTS but in PTE they are one part. Below you will find tables to know the difference individually:

Writing:

In both IELTS and PTE exam, the “essay ” tasks are very similar. This means you will not need to adapt your preparation strategies much at all.

For the other writing task, the main point of difference between the tests is that PTE asks students to summarize a written text, using a single sentence. For IELTS, they must write a description/ summary of a chart or graph.

Speaking:

The “Describe Image” task in the PTE exam tests the same language abilities as the first writing task in IELTS. Where students are asked to describe a graph or chart. So, you will able to adapt your preparation technique for this task very easily. Students find it helpful to practice the “Describe Image” task so that they can become comfortable with the skill.

Conclusion

Summing up, PTE or IELTS even you can say that one is easier. But you must remember that each examination requires you to prepare to take on the syllabus of PTE or IELTS, pattern and structure posed for each. Which needs intensive practice over some time, even if the score in the mock tests is pretty high.

Moreover, once you make your decision and achieve the desired scores, connect with professional experts.


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