The 5 best English language tests for universities in US and UK are TOEFL, IELTS, PTE, DET and C1 Advanced. TOEFL is US-focused; IELTS is best for UKVI visas and is accepted by over 12,500 universities globally; PTE and DET give faster results; DET is also pocket-friendly, and C1 Advanced is a prestigious and permanent credential with no expiration date.
One of the biggest factors in study abroad admissions is English language proficiency tests. Most students choose between the TOEFL and IELTS, depending on their comfort level and the country in which they plan to study. However, other tests, such as the PTE and DET, are also popular for studying in countries like the USA and the UK.
The choice between TOEFL, IELTS, PTE, C1 Advanced and DET depends largely on where you plan to study. While some universities accept multiple tests, factors such as region and visa regulations also come into play.
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English language tests, such as TOEFL, IELTS, PTE Academic, C1, and DET, are important for admissions to US and UK universities. These tests ensure that the student is fluent in English and can speak, write, talk and understand the language clearly.
These tests target students on four parameters of language: Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening. This ensures that students:
Additionally, these tests are also helpful during visa and scholarship processes.
There are five popular types of English proficiency tests that students take for admission to colleges and universities. These are:
One of the most popular English proficiency exams is the IELTS, which is accepted by most universities in the US and UK. It’s a globally recognised test by British Council, IDP and Cambridge English, launched in 1980 by ELTS.
There are two types of IELTS tests: the Academic version for higher education and General Training for professional purposes.
IELTS tests four basic language skills in English: Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening. Proficiency in these four aspects showcases the students’ ability to communicate effectively.
The test lasts 2 hours and 45 minutes, followed by a separate face-to-face video interview.
IELTS scoring is on a 9-point scale, with band 7 and above being considered good scores. It’s conducted both in paper mode and online mode.
The validity of the IELTS score is two years from the test date. It’s accepted in 12,500+ organisations and 140 countries.
TOEFL stands for Test of English as a Foreign Language, and it was introduced in 2005 by ETS. It is accepted by over 13,000 institutions globally, particularly in US universities.
Like IELTS, the TOEFL tests the English usage of non-native speakers who want to study abroad in English-speaking countries.
The TOEFL also tests students in areas such as Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing.
The reading and listening sections are based on excerpts from university textbooks and lectures. For the speaking section, your answers are recorded on a microphone before examiners grade them. This works best for students who are not comfortable with human interactions.
The timeline for TOEFL results is 3-13 days for the paper-based test, and 1-5 days for computer-delivered. TOEFL scores are valid for two years from the date of test.
The new iBT rules, effective January 2026, have introduced adaptive testing, shorter test duration and better scoring.
The TOEFL also has an Essentials version, which is shorter; however, it is not as widely accepted as the TOEFL iBT.
TOEFL is specially suited for American academics with every US university accept its scores.
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PTE or Pearsons Test of English is an entirely computer-based test that offers quick results and AI-based scoring. It is widely accepted in the US and the UK.
Since PTE is entirely computer-based, the student’s performance is evaluated by AI, leaving no room for any human intervention or bias.
The validity of the PTE score is 2 years from the test date. In 2026, PTE updated its balanced assessment, AI enhancements, and pronunciation fluency. PTE is ideal for students who prefer a computer-based test without human interaction. If you have a good typing speed, PTE may work out well.
PTE costs between Rs 17,000 and Rs 19,000 in India, with an option for an at-home test.
The DET or Duolingo English Test is an affordable proficiency test that is quickly gaining popularity in many universities in the US and UK.
It is a computer-adaptive test that lasts for an hour. Students can choose to take it at home and receive the results in just two days. According to the DET website, the test is now accepted in approximately 6,000 institutions worldwide.
The test can be purchased online through the Duolingo website. It takes five minutes to set up. The scores range from 10 to 160.
The test can be used for employment and studies, with countries such as the US, Canada, the UK, and Australia accepting DET scores.
Cambridge English exams (C1) are traditional, offering high-level certifications and are known for their thorough assessment. Like other English proficiency tests, the C1 tests students on four crucial pillars of communication: reading, Writing, Speaking, and Listening.
Like the other tests, the primary purpose of C1 is to assess whether students have the ability to understand and communicate in the language of instruction, which is English.
By targeting all four aspects of communication, C1 ensures that students can handle the academic requirements, write down notes, read study material, follow what is taught in class and communicate what they understood through exams.
The biggest strength of C1 Advanced is that it’s a permanent credential, which is valid forever unlike the two-year expiration date of other tests like TOEFL and IELTS. It is a resume enhancer.
There is also a certain prestige associated with the Cambridge branding, putting you in a elite group of English speakers.
C1 Advanced has a broad-spectrum application, accepted for university entries, job applications an professional uses.
IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Duolingo English Test (DET) and Cambridge C1 Advanced are the best English language tests for international students who want to study in English-speaking countries like the USA, UK and Canada.
Neither TOEFL nor IELTS is “better” than the other. It boils down to the student’s level of comfort with the exam format. IELTS is better for students who are comfortable with face-to-face interactions, which involve a human invigilator. IELTS is also more inclusive of different accents. TOEFL is basically computer-based, and is suited for students who find it easier taking integrated tests and recorded speaking. The new TOEFL iBT was updated in January 2026 with shorter adaptive formats, which students may find easier. TOEFL is also believed to be more US-focused, and IELTS is better suited for UK visas.
Neither PTE nor IELTS are “better” than the other. PTE is entirely computer-based with AI-scored results. IELTS, on the contrary, involves face-to-face interactions and is evaluated by humans. Choose PTE if you want faster results, are planning to immigrate to Australia, or prefer more integrated tasks. Choose IELTS for UK admissions, and if you prefer the human element in test-taking.
No English language test is inherently better than the other or the best. TOEFL, IELTS, PTE Academic, DET, and C1 Advanced each have their strengths in terms of formats, pricing and result turnaround time. TheTOEFL suits US universities, particularly with its updated format and acceptance at over 13,000 institutions. IELTS is best for UKVI student visas. PTE offers AI-powered analysis with a result turnaround in 48 hours. DET wins in the pricing area, costing just Rs 6,500, less than half of the other tests. C1 Advanced certifies elite CEFR C1 proficiency for postgraduate programs
Neither IELTS nor PTE is better. IELTS is more suitable for UKVI student visas, as it involves human evaluation and recognition in most universities worldwide. PTE Academic is better with its 48-hour AI scoring and fully computer-based format.
An IELTS score of 7 is equal to a PTE Academic score of 65-72. Most universities in the US and the UK use score equivalents for different tests in their admission requirements.
Which test is better for a visa?
There is no blanket rule for one test that is “better for visas.” IELTS is preferred for UK student visas, while PTE is more suitable for Australian PR visas.
What level is 7.5 in IELTS?
IELTS 7.5 is a “Good User” level, which means that the test taker is fluent in English and can handle the academic rigour necessary for detailed essays, debates, discussions and communication.
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