English language tests for university admission
Universities accept several English tests, but not every university accepts every test, and visa rules can add their own requirements. Choose your test only after checking the universities on your list.
IELTS Academic
IELTS is run by the British Council, IDP and Cambridge University Press and Assessment. The Academic version is the one used for university entry. It covers listening, reading, writing and speaking, and each part is scored on a band scale from 1 to 9 in half-band steps. Universities usually state an overall band and a minimum for each part, for example 6.5 overall with no part below 6.0. The speaking test is a face-to-face conversation with an examiner. IELTS can be taken on paper or on a computer at a test centre, and an online version exists, though not every university or visa route accepts it.
For UK student visas, some applicants need a Secure English Language Test (SELT) such as IELTS for UKVI. Most universities can assess English themselves for degree-level study, so check whether your university needs a SELT or will accept the standard test.
TOEFL iBT
TOEFL is run by ETS. From 21 January 2026, TOEFL iBT scores are reported on a 1 to 6 scale in half-band steps, aligned with the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR). For a transition period of two years, ETS also reports a comparable score on the older 0 to 120 scale, so universities that still list requirements in the old format can read results. If a university page quotes a requirement such as "90 overall", look for its updated requirement on the new scale, or check the ETS concordance.
TOEFL iBT can be taken at a test centre or at home.
PTE Academic
Pearson Test of English Academic is computer-based and marked mostly by automated scoring. Results usually arrive within a few days. It is accepted widely in Australia, New Zealand and the UK, and by a growing number of universities elsewhere.
Duolingo English Test
The Duolingo English Test is taken online at home, is shorter than the other tests and costs less. Many US colleges accept it. Acceptance in the UK, Australia and elsewhere is less consistent, and it is generally not accepted for visa purposes.
Comparing the tests
| Test | Format | Score scale | Common uses |
|---|---|---|---|
| IELTS Academic | Centre (paper or computer), some online | 1 to 9 bands | UK, Australia, Canada, worldwide |
| TOEFL iBT | Centre or home | 1 to 6 bands (0 to 120 comparable score until 2028) | US, worldwide |
| PTE Academic | Computer at centre | 10 to 90 | Australia, NZ, UK, growing elsewhere |
| Duolingo English Test | Online at home | 10 to 160 | Many US colleges |
Choosing a test
- List the universities you are applying to and note which tests each accepts, with the required scores.
- Check visa requirements for your destination.
- Pick the test accepted by all of them, or the fewest combination.
- Try official practice material for that test before booking, to see which format suits you.
Results are usually valid for two years from the test date. Plan your test date so the result is still valid when your course starts.
Related: SAT and ACT and the document checklist.