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Course Overview

Overview

Moving abroad? Need an English proficiency test for study or work purposes?

Typically, English proficiency tests are used by those seeking international education, professional recognition and migration to English-speaking countries such as the UK, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. In this section, we will cover the major English proficiency tests available.

There are THREE main tests that higher education institutions, governments and companies use as evidence of English proficiency:

International English Language Testing System (IELTS)

The IELTS measures the ability of non-native speakers of English to use and understand British English. It is offered as two forms: Academic and General Training.

Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)

The TOEFL is a standardized test to measure the English language ability of non-native speakers wishing to enroll in English-speaking universities. The test also uses North American English.

Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE)

The PTE is dedicated to assessing and validating the English language usage of non-native English speakers. The test also uses a mix of British, American and Australian English.

Comparison Table

So which test(s) should I take? To help you make the most informed decision, we have drawn up a table comparing the tests. If you wish to know about specific test formats and content, please click on the desired test pages to learn more.

Test	TOEFL	IELTS	PTE
Purpose	Students planning to study at a higher education institution English-language learning program admissions and exit Scholarship and certification candidates English-language learners who want to track their progress Students and workers applying for visas
Registration	www.toefl.org	British Council: https://www.britishcouncil.sg/exam/ielts IDP: https://www.idp.com/singapore/ielts/	https://pearsonpte.com/book-now/
Test Fees	USD 235	SGD 365	USD 250
Duration	3.5 hours	2 hours 50 minutes	3 hours
Attempts Allowed	Unlimited ≤1 in a 12-day period	Unlimited ≤1 in a 2-month period	Unlimited
Test Frequency	Throughout the year 2-3 Times a Month	Throughout the year Paper test: 2-6 times a month Computer-based test: about 5 times a week, depending on the test centre and city/country	Throughout the year
Test Format	Internet-based test	Paper and computer-based test	Internet-based test
Results Release Date	Approximately 10 days after the test date; Online	Paper test: 14 days Computer-based test: 5 days Online, By Post and Collection	5 Days; Online
Validity	2 Years	2 Years	2 Years

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FAQs

Which English Proficiency Test do I need to do for study purposes?

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