How to Compare Your IELTS vs. PTE Score

Wondering how to convert IELTS to PTE scores?

Maybe you’re choosing between IELTS and PTE, or maybe you just want to see your target scores for each.

In this guide, you’ll find the updated PTE to IELTS score conversion table to compare your overall score and individual skill scores.

We'll also explain what these scores mean for your study and migration goals in Australia.

IELTS Academic and PTE Academic use different scoring systems. IELTS uses band scores from 1 to 9, while PTE scores range from 10 to 90.

The table below shows how IELTS and PTE scores compare, including overall scores and individual scores for Listening, Reading, Speaking and Writing.

Updated in 2026. Note: Some universities may require a PTE score at the higher end of the range. Always check the exact overall and individual skill scores required for your chosen course or visa.

Why do individual skill scores matter?

Some Australian universities and visa pathways require minimum scores in Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking, not just an overall score.

This means you could meet the overall English score requirement but still fall short in one skill.

That's why it's important to check both your overall score and individual skill scores before applying.

The English score you need to study in Australia depends on your education provider and study level. For example, you may need an IELTS score of 6.0 for most undergraduate courses.

Yes. Both IELTS and PTE Academic are accepted English language tests for eligible Australian visa applications, including the Student visa (subclass 500).

The minimum IELTS score for an Australian Student visa (subclass 500) is generally 6.0 overall. Some eligible pathways allow lower scores, while other courses (like Nursing) and providers require higher scores.

Here's a guide to the IELTS scores set by the Australian Government for different Student visa pathways. 

_{These are the minimum IELTS average band scores under the} Migration (English Language Tests and Evidence Exemptions for Subclass 500 (Student) Visas) Instrument 2025. _{They apply when English test evidence is required. Some applicants are exempt.}

Both IELTS Academic and PTE Academic can help you show your English language skills for studying in Australia.

But the test experience and available options for each test are different.

Here are a few things worth considering before choosing your test.

Want more flexibility if you need to improve one skill?

IELTS One Skill Retake gives eligible test takers the option to retake just one of the four skills.

This may be helpful if you've already achieved your target score in three skills and only need to improve one.

With PTE Academic, you need to retake the full test to receive a new set of scores.

Prefer speaking with a real person?

IELTS Speaking is conducted with a trained human examiner.

This allows you to demonstrate your English through a natural conversation, with questions and follow-up discussion.

PTE Academic uses a computer-based speaking assessment, where you speak into a microphone, and your responses are recorded.

If you feel more comfortable having a conversation with another person, the IELTS Speaking format may suit you.

Planning more than one study or career move?

Your English test may be useful beyond your next university application.

For example, you may later decide to apply for postgraduate study, professional registration or opportunities in another country.

IELTS is recognised by more than 13,500 organisations worldwide, including universities, employers, professional bodies and governments.

This wide recognition may give you more options as your plans change.

Still deciding between the two tests?

Read our IELTS vs PTE comparison guide to explore the key differences in test format, scoring and recognition.

IELTS and PTE measure your English language ability, but they use different test formats and scoring systems.

This means their scores cannot be converted into exact equivalents.

The updated comparison tables in this article are based on Pearson’s research published in 2025.

The study involved 1,522 test takers who completed both IELTS Academic and PTE Academic within 90 days of each other.

Participants came from 54 nationalities and spoke 43 languages.

Researchers compared their results to better understand how overall and individual skill scores align across the two tests.

Your English test score is just one part of your study journey.

Whether you've already taken IELTS or PTE, or you're still deciding which test to book, IDP can help you explore your next steps.

Our education counsellors can help you:

• Find courses and universities that match your study goals.

• Understand the English entry requirements for your preferred courses.

• Explore available study pathways if you don't meet direct entry requirements.

• Get guidance on your course application and next steps.

Ready to explore your options?

Speak to an IDP counsellor and take the next step towards your study goals in Australia.