PTE & IELTS
Your key to global universities.
Understand the difference between PTE and IELTS, learn what score you need for your target country, and prepare with expert coaching at Himalayan Consultancy.
Which test should you take?
Both PTE Academic and IELTS are accepted by universities worldwide. The right choice depends on your strengths, target country, and how quickly you need results.
PTE is fully computer-based, uses AI scoring, and delivers results within 48 hours. IELTS has both paper and computer formats, and is universally recognised.
We help you decide based on your profile and the specific requirements of your target universities.
PTE vs IELTS — the difference.
| Feature | PTE Academic | IELTS |
|---|---|---|
| Format | Fully computer-based | Paper or computer-based |
| Duration | ~2 hours | ~2 hours 45 minutes |
| Results | Within 48 hours | 3–13 days |
| Scoring | AI-scored (10–90) | Human + AI (band 0–9) |
| Validity | 2 years | 2 years |
| Speaking | Recorded on computer | Face-to-face with examiner |
| Accepted in | Australia, UK, Canada, USA, NZ, Ireland | Virtually every English-speaking country |
| Test fee in Nepal | ~NPR 22,000 | ~NPR 29,000 |
What score do you need?
Requirements vary by university. Here are typical ranges by country.
🇦🇺 Australia
IELTS: 6.0–6.5 overall
PTE: 50–58 overall
Nursing, teaching and medicine require higher — 7.0 IELTS or 65 PTE.
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
IELTS UKVI: 6.0–7.0
PTE UKVI: 50–65
Student visa requires an approved SELT — usually IELTS for UKVI or PTE Academic UKVI.
🇨🇦 Canada
IELTS: 6.0–6.5 (SDS requires 6.0 each band)
PTE: 60+
SDS stream requires IELTS 6.0 in each module.
🇺🇸 United States
IELTS: 6.0–7.5
TOEFL: 61–100
PTE: 50–70
Duolingo: 95–125 (widely accepted)
🇰🇷 South Korea
IELTS: 5.5+ for English-taught
TOPIK: 3+ for Korean-taught
TOPIK is required for Korean-language programs.
🇯🇵 Japan
IELTS: 6.0+ for English-taught
JLPT: N2–N1 for Japanese-taught
JLPT N5 basic for language schools.
What we offer.
Diagnostic test
Free initial assessment to understand your current level and target score.
Small group classes
Maximum 8 students per batch so every learner gets individual attention.
One-on-one coaching
For students who need intensive preparation or have specific weaknesses.
Full mock tests
Realistic mock tests in exam conditions with detailed score reports.
Material & resources
Updated study material, online practice portals and reference guides.
Score improvement focus
Personalised feedback after each mock to target specific score gaps.
PTE & IELTS — FAQ.
Is PTE easier than IELTS?
PTE is fully computer-based and results come within 48 hours. IELTS offers both paper and computer formats. Neither is objectively easier — it depends on your strengths. PTE tends to suit students who type quickly and prefer objective AI scoring; IELTS suits those who prefer face-to-face speaking.
Which countries accept PTE Academic?
PTE Academic is accepted by universities in Australia, UK, Canada, USA, New Zealand and Ireland. However, for visa purposes the UK requires PTE Academic UKVI — a specific version.
How long is my score valid?
Both PTE and IELTS scores are valid for 2 years from the test date. Most universities accept scores that are valid at the time of course start.
How many times can I take the test?
You can retake as many times as you like. There is no waiting period for PTE, but IELTS requires a short gap in some countries.
Do I need to take IELTS if I studied in English?
Some universities accept a Medium of Instruction (MOI) letter from your school or college in place of IELTS. This is more common for postgraduate programs and depends entirely on the institution.
Book your free diagnostic test.
Understand where you stand and what you need to score.