IELTS, TOEFL, PTE or Cambridge: which English exam should you take?

Four English exams dominate the conversation: IELTS, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic and Cambridge English. They overlap, but they differ in how they report results, where you can take them and how long a result counts. Here they are side by side, using what each exam's official site states.

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16Word: the free English level test — A1 to B2 in about 8 minutes, no account needed

The four exams at a glance

ExamResultsHow you take itValidityOften used for
IELTSBand 0–9Test centre or at homeTwo years is the recommended limitStudy, work, visas
TOEFL iBTScore 1–6Computer, centre or homeTwo yearsStudy, work
PTE AcademicScore 10–90Computer at a centreTwo yearsStudy, work, visas
Cambridge EnglishScale 120–230Paper or computerNot stated on the pages we readStudy, work

All four assess reading, listening, writing and speaking. Facts come from IELTS, ETS, Pearson and Cambridge.

Start with who will read your result

The best exam is the one the organisation in front of you accepts. Before comparing formats, open the requirements page of your university, employer or immigration office and write down which tests it names and what result it wants. Often this ends the discussion on the spot.

If more than one is accepted

  • You want a single level on a certificate: Cambridge English qualifications are aimed at one level each, from A2 Key to C2 Proficiency. See our Cambridge guide.
  • You want one test that reports a range: IELTS, TOEFL and PTE give a band or score across a scale. See our guides to IELTS, TOEFL and PTE.
  • You prefer staying at home: IELTS and TOEFL list a home option. Read language exams you can take at home first.
  • You work best on paper: Cambridge English is available on paper. The TOEFL iBT and PTE Academic are computer tests.

A useful test before you decide

Try the official sample of each exam you are considering: IELTS, TOEFL, PTE and Cambridge. You will notice quickly which format suits you. That feeling is worth taking seriously, since you will be spending weeks with it.

What stays the same

Vocabulary carries every one of these exams. Whichever you choose, take a free English level test, then learn a small set of words every day and review them before you forget them.

Build the English behind any exam

Tell us your goal and level, and 16Word sets out what to learn next.

Keep exploring

Every exam below has its own preparation page on 16Word.

The other language exams

More guides on language exams

Related guides and free level tests

Choosing an English exam: frequently asked questions

Which English exam is the easiest?

None of the official sites ranks them that way, and the difficulty depends on you. Try each official sample and see which format suits you.

Which English exams can I take at home?

IELTS and the TOEFL iBT list a home option. Confirm that your institution accepts it.

Do these exams expire?

TOEFL iBT and PTE Academic results are valid for two years, and IELTS gives two years as the recommended limit. See our validity guide.

Which English exam is best for visas?

IELTS and PTE Academic list visas and residence among their uses. Requirements are set by each country, so check its official immigration page.

Can 16Word replace an English exam?

No. 16Word prepares you and its own certificates show your progress, but only the official exams count for universities and authorities.

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