It’s a common dilemma among international students, especially since these tests often appear together on university websites but serve different purposes. Some assess how well you use the English language, while others measure your academic aptitude and reasoning skills. The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is an aptitude-based test that measures your reasoning, analytical writing, and problem-solving skills, unlike IELTS, PTE, and TOEFL, which test your English communication ability.
In simple terms, IELTS, PTE, and TOEFL check how well you communicate, while the GRE evaluates how well you think. This guide explains what each test measures, who should take it, and which one fits your goals best.
IELTS vs GRE vs PTE vs TOEFL
|
Test |
Full Form |
Primary Purpose |
Accepted By |
Test Type |
|
IELTS |
International English Language Testing System |
Test English proficiency for study, work, or migration |
11,000+ institutions in 140+ countries |
Language Test |
|
PTE |
Pearson Test of English Academic |
Tests academic English proficiency and communication skills |
3,000+ institutions; accepted in Australia, Canada, and the UK |
Language Test |
|
TOEFL |
Test of English as a Foreign Language |
Measures English for academic and university-level use |
12,000+ institutions in 160 countries |
Language Test |
|
GRE |
Graduate Record Examination |
Assesses analytical writing, reasoning, and quantitative ability |
Graduate and business schools worldwide |
Aptitude + Language Test |
What Each Test Is and Who It’s For?
IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
The IELTS exam evaluates your ability to communicate effectively in English in study, work, and migration settings. The British Council jointly owns it, IDP: IELTS Australia, and Cambridge Assessment English, making it one of the most trusted global language tests.
Best For:
Students, professionals, or migrants applying for university admission, work visas, or permanent residency (PR) in English-speaking countries.
Key Details:
- Test Type: Language proficiency test
- Sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking
- Mode: Paper-based, computer-based, or IELTS Online
- Scoring: 1–9 Band Scale
PTE (Pearson Test of English Academic)
The PTE Academic test is a fully computer-based English exam powered by AI scoring technology, offering fast, unbiased results typically within 1 to 2 days. It assesses how well you can use academic English in real-life situations, making it a popular choice for students who prefer automated evaluation.
Best For:
Test-takers who want quick results, AI-based scoring, and a fully digital exam experience.
Key Details:
- Test Type: Language proficiency test
- Sections: Speaking & Writing (combined), Reading, Listening
- Mode: Computer-based only
- Scoring: 10–90 Scale (AI evaluated)
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
TOEFL iBT measures your ability to use academic English in a university setting. It is administered by ETS (Educational Testing Service) and focuses on how well you understand and express English in the classroom and academic contexts.
Best For:
Students planning to study in the United States, Canada, or at universities that prefer academic English evaluation.
Key Details:
- Test Type: Academic English proficiency test
- Sections: Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing
- Mode: Internet-based (TOEFL iBT)
- Scoring: 0–120 Points
GRE (Graduate Record Examination)
The GRE is a standardised aptitude test, not just a language test.
It measures your ability to analyse, reason, and interpret complex information, essential for graduate-level education. Administered by ETS, GRE scores are accepted by thousands of master's, MBA, and PhD programs worldwide.
Best For:
Students applying to postgraduate or business schools abroad (especially in the USA, Canada, and Europe).
Key Details:
- Test Type: Aptitude + analytical reasoning test
- Sections: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, Analytical Writing
- Mode: Computer-based or at-home version
- Scoring: 130–340 (plus 0–6 for Analytical Writing)
Test Format & Structure Comparison
|
Section |
IELTS |
PTE Academic |
TOEFL iBT |
GRE |
|
Listening |
30 mins (4 recordings) |
30–43 mins (audio clips + MCQs) |
36 mins (audio lectures & conversations) |
N/A |
|
Reading |
60 mins (3 passages) |
29–30 mins (academic texts) |
54 mins (academic passages) |
Verbal Reasoning (41 questions) |
|
Writing |
60 mins (2 tasks) |
30–40 mins (summarise & essay) |
29 mins (2 tasks) |
Analytical Writing (2 essays) |
|
Speaking |
11–14 mins (live interview) |
30–35 mins (AI-recorded) |
16 mins (recorded responses) |
Verbal Reasoning indirectly tests this |
|
Scoring Scale |
1–9 Bands |
10–90 Points |
0–120 Points |
130–340 (plus 0–6 writing) |
|
Mode |
Paper / Computer / Online |
Fully Computer-Based |
Internet-Based |
Computer-Based (at test centres or at home) |
Score Comparison Chart (Equivalency)
|
IELTS Band |
PTE Academic Score |
TOEFL iBT Score |
GRE Verbal Equivalent |
Skill Level (CEFR Reference) |
|
9.0 |
89–90 |
118–120 |
165–170 |
C2 – Expert User |
|
8.0 |
79–82 |
110–114 |
160–164 |
C1 – Very Good User |
|
7.0 |
65–72 |
94–101 |
150–159 |
B2 – Good User |
|
6.5 |
58–64 |
79–93 |
145–149 |
B2 – Competent User |
|
6.0 |
50–57 |
60–78 |
140–144 |
B1 – Modest User |
|
5.5 |
42–49 |
46–59 |
Below 140 |
B1 – Limited User |
Note: This table is based on official and academic equivalency studies from ETS, Pearson, and IDP.
Key Insights
- IELTS Bands are qualitative (1–9), whereas PTE, TOEFL, and GRE use numeric scales, which, despite their differences, are comparable through the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference).
- PTE and IELTS have the most direct score alignment since both test practical language use.
- TOEFL scores are generally higher numerically but represent similar proficiency levels.
- GRE Verbal only partially overlaps since it measures vocabulary and comprehension, not overall communication ability.
- Universities often publish minimum equivalence requirements, but it’s best to check each program’s official cutoff.
Global Acceptance & Recognition
Choosing the right test isn’t just about comfort; it’s about where your score will be accepted. Each exam has its own reach, depending on whether you’re applying for university admission, work visas, or permanent residency (PR).
Here’s how the four major tests compare in terms of global recognition.
|
Purpose / Region |
IELTS |
PTE Academic |
TOEFL iBT |
GRE |
|
Universities (Worldwide) |
Accepted by 11,000+ universities across 140+ countries. Standard choice in the UK, Canada, Australia, and Ireland. |
Accepted by 3,000+ universities, especially in Australia, the UK, and Canada. |
Accepted by 12,000+ institutions, including top US and Canadian universities. |
Required for graduate programs such as MS, MBA, and PhD. |
|
Migration & PR (Australia, UK, Canada, NZ) |
Approved by immigration authorities in all major English-speaking countries. |
Recognised for PR and visa applications in Australia, Canada, and the UK. |
Limited use, mainly valid for student visas but not PR. |
Not accepted for migration purposes. |
|
Business Schools (MBA, MS Programs) |
Accepted by several international MBA programs, especially in the UK and Australia. |
Limited acceptance; not common for MBA schools. |
Accepted by many US and global business schools. |
Mandatory for top B-schools like Wharton, MIT, and INSEAD. |
|
Work Visa / Employment |
Recognised for skilled migration and professional registration. |
Accepted for work permits in multiple countries. |
Limited professional use, mostly academic. |
Not valid for work-related documentation. |
|
Scholarships & Funding |
Used to prove English eligibility for international scholarships. |
Accepted for university-level merit and entry scholarships. |
Recognised for academic scholarships, especially in the US and Canada. |
Preferred for merit-based or research-driven scholarships. |
What does this mean for you?
IELTS offers the widest acceptance, making it the ideal choice for both study and migration. PTE is gaining popularity, particularly among Australia and Canada PR applicants who prefer quick AI-based scoring. TOEFL remains a strong option for universities in the United States and Canada due to its academic approach. The GRE is essential for postgraduate and business programs, but it cannot replace a language proficiency test.
In summary, IELTS is the global all-rounder, PTE is the fast and digital alternative, TOEFL is the academic pathway, and GRE is the gateway to graduate studies.
Test Duration, Frequency & Validity
|
Aspect |
IELTS |
PTE Academic |
TOEFL iBT |
GRE |
|
Duration |
Approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes, including all four sections — Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. |
Around 2 hours, covering integrated Speaking, Writing, Reading, and Listening tasks. |
Roughly 2 hours, with academic English passages and listening exercises. |
About 2 hours, divided among Analytical Writing, Verbal Reasoning, and Quantitative Reasoning. |
|
Score Validity |
2 years from the test date. |
2 years from the test date. |
2 years from the test date. |
5 years from the test date. |
|
Test Frequency |
Conducted multiple times each month at authorised centres and available online in selected locations. |
Flexible scheduling available year-round; you can book your preferred date and time online. |
Available weekly in most regions with options for at-home testing. |
Offered throughout the year with multiple test dates, candidates can retake after 21 days, up to five times a year. |
|
Result Time |
3 to 5 days for computer-based tests and up to 13 days for paper-based tests. |
Fastest result delivery, usually within 1 to 2 days. |
Results are available within 4 to 8 days after the test. |
Scores are typically released within 10 to 15 days. |
Insights: IELTS offers flexible formats and frequent test dates. PTE provides the fastest results with AI-based scoring. TOEFL has a similar structure but slightly slower processing. GRE takes longer yet offers the longest score validity of five years, ideal for postgraduate applicants.
Test Fees Comparison for India
Understanding the fee structure for each exam helps you plan your budget effectively.
While the cost difference between English proficiency tests such as IELTS, PTE, and TOEFL is minimal, the GRE is typically more expensive due to its additional analytical and quantitative sections.
|
Test |
Exam Fee (INR) |
Re-Evaluation Fee |
Additional Notes |
|
IELTS |
₹17,000 – ₹17,500 |
₹11,500 |
Price may vary slightly based on test mode (paper, computer, or online). Fee includes four score report submissions to institutions. |
|
PTE Academic |
₹17,000 |
₹12,000 |
Fully computer-based test with AI scoring. Fastest result turnaround time (1–2 days). |
|
TOEFL iBT |
₹16,900 |
₹12,000 |
Internet-based format with academic focus; fees include score sending to four universities. |
|
GRE |
₹22,550 |
₹11,800 |
Higher cost due to the inclusion of verbal, analytical, and quantitative reasoning sections. Valid for five years. |
Notes: Planning to book your test soon? Use an EduVouchers discount coupon during checkout to get an instant price cut on your exam booking.
It’s a simple way to save extra while securing your IELTS or PTE slot - the same official test, just smarter savings!
Which Test Is Easier?
|
Parameter |
IELTS |
PTE |
TOEFL |
GRE |
|
Speaking Comfort |
Face-to-face |
Computer-recorded |
Computer-recorded |
N/A |
|
Writing Complexity |
Medium |
Moderate |
Medium |
High |
|
Reading Length |
Moderate |
Shorter |
Longer |
Long & Analytical |
|
Scoring Transparency |
Human-checked |
AI-checked |
AI-checked |
Hybrid (AI + human) |
|
Ease for Indian Students |
Very High |
High |
Moderate |
Complex (includes math) |
Insight: IELTS feels more natural for most candidates, while PTE and TOEFL are faster but more technical. The GRE is more analytical and best suited for PG-level applicants.
Which Test Should You Take?
Take IELTS if you want the most globally accepted option, PTE if you prefer quick AI-based results, TOEFL for academic universities in the U.S. and Canada, and GRE if you’re applying for postgraduate or MBA programs.
|
Your Goal |
Recommended Test |
|
Study in the USA / Canada |
TOEFL / IELTS / GRE (for PG) |
|
Study in the UK / Australia / Ireland |
IELTS / PTE |
|
Apply for PR / Migration |
IELTS / PTE |
|
Pursue a Master’s or an MBA |
GRE + IELTS/TOEFL |
|
Quick Results & AI-Based Scoring |
PTE |
|
Comfort with Face-to-Face Speaking |
IELTS |
Test Acceptance in Major Countries
|
Country |
IELTS |
PTE Academic |
TOEFL iBT |
GRE |
Accepted For |
|
United States (USA) |
Accepted by most universities. |
Limited acceptance, growing gradually. |
Most preferred by US universities. |
Mandatory for postgraduate and MBA programs. |
Study (UG & PG). |
|
United Kingdom (UK) |
Required for UKVI and all universities. |
Accepted for study and visa purposes. |
Accepted by select universities only. |
Accepted for postgraduate programs. |
Study, work, migration. |
|
Canada |
Accepted for universities, work, and PR. |
Accepted for study permits and PR. |
Accepted by most universities. |
Required for Master’s and PhD programs. |
Study, migration, PR. |
|
Australia |
Accepted for all study and PR categories. |
Fully accepted for universities and migration. |
Accepted for study visas only. |
Required for postgraduate programs. |
Study, migration, PR. |
|
New Zealand |
Accepted for study and visa applications. |
Accepted for migration and universities. |
Accepted for academic admissions. |
Required for postgraduate studies. |
Study, migration. |
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right test depends on your goals. IELTS is ideal for global acceptance, PTE for fast AI-based results, TOEFL for academic-focused universities, and GRE for postgraduate programs. The right exam isn’t just about eligibility; it’s about aligning your skills, ambitions, and study plans with the right opportunity. Plan wisely, prepare well, and use an EduVouchers discount coupon to book your exam at the best price instantly.
