PTE vs. TOEFL: Which English Test Should You Choose?

Choosing between the PTE and TOEFL is a strategic decision that can influence your visa approval, university admission, and even how quickly you get your results. 

In 2024 alone, more than 3 million students and professionals worldwide sat for one of these two exams, with PTE test‑takers growing at nearly 20% year‑over‑year thanks to its fully automated scoring and fast turnaround times. 

Meanwhile, the TOEFL remains a long‑standing benchmark, accepted by over 12,000 institutions globally and trusted for its academic rigor.

Yet despite their popularity, the two tests couldn’t feel more different: one is entirely computer‑scored and designed for speed; the other emphasizes academic depth and structured tasks. 

This guide breaks down PTE vs. TOEFL using real numbers, real formats, and real advantages so you can choose the exam that aligns with your strengths, timeline, and goals.

What Are PTE and TOEFL?

The PTE, administered by Pearson, is a computer-based test designed to evaluate real-life English usage in academic settings. It's known for its integrated tasks where skills overlap, like speaking while listening. Launched in 2009, it's gained popularity for quick results and AI-driven scoring.

The TOEFL, managed by ETS, focuses on academic English needed for university environments. It has evolved from paper-based to the internet-based TOEFL iBT, which is the most common version today. TOEFL emphasizes integrated skills too, but with a stronger academic tilt, such as note-taking from lectures.

Both tests are valid for two years and are accepted by thousands of institutions worldwide, but your choice might depend on your target country or university.

Test Formats and Structures

Seeing the structure of each exam side by side makes it easier to decide which one fits your strengths. Below are two tables outlining the PTE and TOEFL formats, followed by a brief comparison.

PTE Format

TOEFL Format

Quick Comparison Overview

• Total Questions/Tasks: PTE ~65–75 (more opportunities to demonstrate skills); TOEFL up to ~120 items but adaptive (fewer if you perform strongly early)
• Breaks: PTE has no breaks; TOEFL has no scheduled break (streamlined flow)
• Accent Variety: PTE uses multiple accents (British, American, Australian, etc.); TOEFL uses a mix but leans toward clear, varied academic/real-life English
• Overall Feel: PTE remains dynamic, integrated, and fast-paced with enhanced real-world speaking; TOEFL is now even more efficient/adaptive, with a blend of academic and everyday scenarios, feeling more modern and less marathon-like
• Scoring: PTE primarily AI with hybrid human review on key tasks; TOEFL hybrid AI + human throughout, especially tolerant of natural delivery

Difficulty Level: Which One Is Easier? PTE or TOEFL?

Difficulty varies depending on individual strengths. Many test‑takers find the PTE more manageable because the tasks are shorter, the scoring is automated, and there’s no pressure from a live examiner. 

The format avoids long academic lectures and focuses on quick, integrated responses. At the same time, the fast pace and the AI’s strict pronunciation scoring can be challenging for some users.

TOEFL may feel more demanding for those who are less comfortable with academic content or note‑taking, but its structured format works better for others. 

Both exams use computer‑based speaking, though TOEFL’s human scoring tends to be more tolerant of minor accent variations.

Overall, many learners consider the PTE easier, especially if they do not come from an academic background, while the TOEFL often aligns more naturally with students preparing for university‑level study.

Acceptance and Recognition

PTE is accepted by more than 3,300 institutions worldwide, with especially strong recognition in Australia, New Zealand, the UK, and Canada for visas and immigration. Its presence in the US is growing as well, and even schools like Harvard now accept it.

TOEFL has a wider footprint overall, with recognition from over 13,000 institutions across more than 160 countries. It remains the dominant choice in the US, Canada, and much of Europe, and is preferred by many American universities, including Stanford.

Because acceptance varies by institution, it’s always worth checking the specific requirements of your target school or immigration program. Overall, TOEFL covers more ground globally, but PTE is fully sufficient for many applicants.

What Is A Good Score In PTE And TOEFL?

Take a look at this table to compare PTE and TOEFL scores: 

Note: TOEFL now shows two score formats: the new 1–6 band (with half‑point steps and CEFR alignment) and a temporary 0–120 equivalent that will stay in place until 2028. What counts as a “good” score depends on where you’re applying. 

As a general guide, many top US universities look for around 79+ on PTE or 100+ on TOEFL (transitional scale), while most other institutions accept roughly 65+ on PTE or 94+ on TOEFL.

PTE Vs. TOEFL: Cost and Availability

Costs differ by country, but both exams fall in a similar range.

• PTE typically costs USD $200–250 (around INR 17,000 in India).
• TOEFL is usually USD $185–255 (about INR 16,900 in India).

In terms of availability, PTE offers very frequent test dates, almost year‑round, and operates in more than 70 countries. 

TOEFL has a larger global network with over 4,500 centers, but some locations offer fewer time slots during busy seasons. 

Both exams are available throughout the year, though PTE tends to provide more scheduling flexibility.

Results Turnaround Time

One of the biggest practical differences between the two exams is how fast you get your scores, which matters a lot if you’re working with tight university or visa deadlines.

PTE Academic:  

Scores usually come out within 24–48 hours, and in many cases even sooner, sometimes the same day or the next day. You’ll get an email once your results are ready, and you can view them in your myPTE account. 

Because most of the scoring is handled by AI (with some human checks on specific tasks), PTE remains one of the fastest English tests available. Only in rare cases does it take up to 5 business days.

TOEFL iBT:  

TOEFL now releases official scores in your ETS account in about 3 days (72 hours or less), which is a big improvement from the older 4–8 day timeline. 

You’ll see the expected score‑release date at the end of your test, and you’ll get an email when they’re ready. The PDF score report usually appears a day later. Like PTE, TOEFL scores stay valid for 2 years.

Overall, PTE is still the faster option, especially if you need results urgently. But with TOEFL’s updated processing time in 2026, the gap is much smaller, making it a solid choice even for applicants on a tight schedule.

Pros and Cons of Each Test 

Both tests have their own upsides and drawbacks. Here’s a quick look at what each one does well and where it might feel limiting.

PTE Pros and Cons

Overall, PTE is great if you want fast results and a fully computer‑based test, but the strict AI scoring and limited acceptance in some places are things to keep in mind.

TOEFL Pros and Cons

TOEFL works well if you need wide acceptance and strong academic preparation, though the slower results and higher cost can be downsides.

Study Tips and Preparation Plans for PTE and TOEFL

Getting ready for either test really comes down to steady practice and understanding how the exam works. 

Both PTE and TOEFL reward focused study, knowing their formats well, and building your skills a little at a time. The guide below walks you through what to do, whether you’re preparing for just a few weeks or taking a longer approach.

How to Prepare for PTE: Use Tech and Build Precision

PTE is fully computer‑based and scored by AI, so it suits people who think quickly, speak clearly, and are comfortable with integrated tasks. Here’s what to focus on:

1. Practice all 20+ question types, especially the high‑value ones: Read Aloud, Repeat Sentence, Describe Image, Retell Lecture, and Summarize Written Text.
2. Work on enabling skills like grammar, oral fluency, pronunciation, vocabulary, spelling, and written discourse, since they affect multiple tasks.
3. Build speed and accuracy with timed mock tests. Aim for smooth, confident speaking. AI scoring is strict about fluency, pacing, and intonation.
4. Use official Pearson materials: Scored Practice Tests, the Official Guide to PTE Academic, the PTE Academic Question Bank (340+ questions), and the mobile app for daily practice.
5. For realistic practice, try Mocko.ai. It mirrors the real PTE exam and offers full mock tests, section‑wise practice, guided lessons, and targeted drills to improve skills, confidence, and overall performance.

Most learners see great improvement with 4–8 weeks of focused study, especially if they’re already comfortable using computers.

How to Prepare For TOEFL: Build Strong Academic English

TOEFL iBT focuses on academic English, note‑taking, and structured responses. It’s a good fit if you prefer predictable, lecture‑style content. Key areas to work on:

1. Improve academic vocabulary and reading by using university‑level sources like National Geographic or Scientific American.
2. Practice note‑taking during listening tasks and learn to summarize main ideas quickly.
3. Use clear templates for Speaking and Writing. Integrated tasks require connecting ideas from reading and listening, while the Academic Discussion task rewards organized, evidence‑based responses.
4. Use official ETS tools: the TOEFL TestReady platform (AI‑scored tasks, daily activities, progress tracking), the free full‑length practice test, the Official Guide to the TOEFL iBT (7th edition), and Official TOEFL iBT Tests Vol. 1 & 2.
5. Additional resources include the free edX TOEFL course, TSTPrep, Magoosh, and YouTube channels like TOEFL Resources or GregMat.
6. Pro tip: Practice speaking clearly into a microphone. TOEFL’s human + AI scoring values clear delivery and strong content more than a perfect accent.

With the updated, shorter 2026 format, TOEFL prep feels more predictable. Plan for 6–10 weeks if you’re starting from an intermediate level.

Conclusion

If you’re still deciding between the two, the choice usually comes down to your strengths and what feels more comfortable. 

PTE works well for people who prefer a fully computer‑based test, quick results, and short, fast‑paced tasks. It’s also a good fit if you don’t want any human interaction during the exam.

TOEFL, on the other hand, suits learners who are comfortable with academic reading, lectures, and structured responses. TOEFL is a better choice for those who want a test that’s widely accepted, especially in North America. 

In terms of difficulty, many test‑takers find PTE easier to manage because the tasks are shorter and the scoring is more predictable once you understand how the AI evaluates responses.

TOEFL can feel more demanding because of its academic style, but it’s also the more universally recognized option, especially for universities in the US and Canada.

Overall:

• Choose PTE if you want speed, flexibility, and a fully automated test.
• Choose TOEFL if you need broad acceptance and feel comfortable with academic English.

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