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IELTS vs PTE vs Duolingo: which test should you take?
Each test is accepted in different places. Choose the one that works for your destination and visa.
Reading time3 min
Sections6
Updated20 August 2026
Sources3 official
The 60-second version
Key takeaways · then go as deep as you like- 1Pick the test your universities and visa route accept before you think about which is easier.
- 2IELTS is the most widely accepted for admissions and visas; PTE is computer-scored with fast results.
- 3Duolingo is short, cheap and taken at home, but many visa routes do not accept it.
- 4For a UK visa you may need a UKVI version of IELTS or PTE, depending on how your university assesses English.
- 5Choose the format that suits you: paper or computer, human or automated speaking.
~2h 45m
IELTS
~2h
PTE Academic
~1h
Duolingo
Visa
Check acceptance first
01The Quick Answer
Start with acceptance, not difficulty. The best test is the one every university on your list and your visa route accept. Then choose the format that suits you: IELTS with a human speaking examiner, PTE with fully computer-based scoring, or Duolingo taken at home in about an hour.
02Side By Side
| Item | IELTS Academic | PTE Academic | Duolingo English Test |
|---|---|---|---|
| Length | About 2 hours 45 minutes | About 2 hours | About 1 hour |
| Where | Test centre (paper or computer) | Test centre, computer | At home, online |
| Speaking | Face to face with an examiner | Recorded, scored by computer | Recorded, scored by computer |
| Scores | Bands 0–9 | 10–90 | 10–160 |
| Results | A few days on computer; longer on paper | Usually within a few days | Usually within a few days |
| Best known for | Widest acceptance for admissions and visas | Fast results, objective scoring | Convenience and cost |
03Which Countries Accept What
Acceptance changes and depends on the university and the visa route, so treat this as a starting point and confirm for your list.
| Destination | Typical position |
|---|---|
| UK | IELTS and PTE widely accepted; for the visa you may need a UKVI version unless your university assesses English itself; Duolingo accepted by some universities |
| USA | IELTS, TOEFL and Duolingo widely accepted by universities; PTE accepted by many |
| Canada | IELTS widely accepted; PTE and Duolingo accepted by many universities |
| Australia | IELTS, PTE and TOEFL accepted for most universities and visas |
| Europe | IELTS most common; many universities accept PTE, TOEFL and Duolingo |
Watch out: Never book a test before confirming that every university on your shortlist and your visa route accept it. A cheaper test you have to repeat costs more.
04Typical Score Requirements
Most master’s programmes ask for an overall level around IELTS 6.5 with no band below 6.0, with higher requirements for law, medicine, journalism and top universities. Equivalent PTE and Duolingo scores are published by each university; do not rely on general conversion charts.
6.5
Common IELTS overall
6.0
Common minimum band
7.0+
Top universities, law, medicine
2 years
Typical validity
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05Which Suits You?
Choose IELTS if
You want the widest acceptance, or you speak better to a person than to a microphone.
Choose PTE if
You type well, like computer-based tests and want results fast.
Choose Duolingo if
Every university on your list accepts it and your visa route does not require another test.
Ask us if
Your list mixes countries; one test that covers all of them saves money and time.
06How To Prepare
- 1Take a diagnostic test to find your weakest skill.
- 2Learn the format: timing and question types decide a lot of marks.
- 3Practise under timed conditions, especially writing.
- 4Get feedback on writing and speaking from someone trained in the test.
- 5Book your test with time for a retake before your deadlines.
Counsellor’s tip: Writing is where most Pakistani students lose marks. Structure and task response matter more than fancy vocabulary.
Not sure which test fits your shortlist? Get a free English level check.
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Sources
Figures come from these official and published sources. Profile notes are TeamOnline’s own observation.
Rules, deadlines and requirements change. Check the current requirements on official pages or with a counsellor before you apply.
Quick answers
Frequently Asked Questions
01Is PTE easier than IELTS?
Neither is easier for everyone. PTE suits students who are comfortable with computers and typing; IELTS suits students who prefer speaking to a person.
02Is Duolingo accepted for a UK student visa?
Duolingo is not a Secure English Language Test for UK visas. Some UK universities accept it for admission and assess English themselves for the CAS. Check with your university.
03How long are IELTS, PTE and Duolingo scores valid?
Usually two years from the test date. Some universities ask that scores are valid on the date your course starts.
04What IELTS score do I need for a master’s abroad?
Commonly 6.5 overall with no band below 6.0, and higher for top universities and fields like law and medicine.
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