PTE vs IELTS - Testing Dates and Patterns  

For the common man both PTE and IELTS will seem alike. Though this may be true on cursory examination, you will be amazed at the abundance of differences between the two. At first glance the 4 sections of PTE Academic – listening, reading, writing and speaking will mirror the structure of IELTS. In fact, it will look similar to any English proficiency test in this department. However, it is essential for any aspiring graduate to understand the differences thoroughly before taking their pick. English tests are not cheap! You do not want to have to redo your test for lack of prior knowledge regarding the benefits of taking PTE Academic in India over IELTS.

Here are a list of differences between the two, apropos of dates and testing patterns:

Students often find themselves rushing to book seats for their English test, since the rigor of college leaves them with little time to reserve a slot and prepare for the test. In view of this mad dash, PTE’s decision to conduct tests everyday makes life very convenient for students. Conversely, IELTS conducts academic tests on only 4 preselected dates in a month. Moreover, these dates are either on a Thursday or a Saturday. If you fail to achieve the required score, which is very probable since students often fail to achieve the required individual band scores even if they obtain the required overall score, the wait to take this test again can seem endless.
The breakdown of timings for the PTE Academic are as follows
a. Speaking & Writing (77 – 93 minutes)
b. Reading (32 – 41 minutes)
c. Listening (45 – 57 minutes)
IELTS is segmented as follows:
a) Listening (30 minutes),

b) Reading (60 minutes),

c) Writing (60 minutes)

d) Speaking (11–14 minutes)

In total you will have to spend approximately 3 hours on your PTE Academic test. The IELTS test only adds up to 2 hours 45 minutes, at the most. Here’s the catch! PTE Academic in India tests you for all 4 sections at one go. However, IELTS tests listening, reading and writing together, and speaking separately. This could mean a 3-4 hour wait after your first set of tests. The break in concentration is definitely not helpful. Also, the wait can be excruciating on the mind. Do you really want to spend 6-8 hours on an English test? I think not!
With this select piece of information you are armored with the tools to make the right choice. But wait! Do you have all the required information? How about the monetary aspect? IELTS will cost you Rs.11,100 when compared to PTE Academic in India which is priced at Rs.10,990. You will receive an additional 10% discount if you buy a PTE voucher from any AECC Global office across India.

Too far from an office? Worry not! Just call us and we will give you the online link to avail this discount.