PTE score vs. IELTS band score comparison

Embarking on your journey to academic or professional success often requires proving your English language proficiency. Two prominent contenders to consider in Malaysia are the Pearson Test of English (PTE) and the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). But how do these tests stack up against each other in the arena of scoring and result interpretation?

Learn how the PTE exam and IELTS test are scored and assessed, so that you can make the right choice when preparing for your English proficiency assessment.

The Pearson Test of English (PTE) exam format utilises a unique scoring system to assess English language proficiency across four key skills: Speaking, Writing, Reading, and Listening. Each section is scored independently, resulting in a final overall PTE score that’s reported on a scale of 10-90, with 10 being the lowest and 90 being the highest.

As the PTE is a fully virtual test, all scores are calculated via machine algorithms. Scoring can be done via Partial Credit or Correct/Incorrect depending on the question type:

• Partial credit: Partial credit is awarded for all right answers and no marks are given for wrong answers. In some cases, marks may be deducted for wrong answers.

• Correct/Incorrect: Points are rewarded for all correct answers and no points are given for wrong answers.

To interpret individual and overall PTE scores effectively, it's essential to understand the proficiency levels associated with each score range. For example, a score of 85 and above indicates superior proficiency, with the test-taker being able to read, understand, summarise, express, and converse in English with fluency and ease. Whereas a score between 75 to 84 is seen as still fairly proficient and able to communicate effectively in English for specific academic, professional, or personal purposes.

PTE exam scores validity remains for up to two years, providing test-takers with ample time to utilise their results for study or immigration purposes.

Understanding PTE Speaking and Writing scores

In the PTE Speaking and Writing exam, test-takers are assessed on their ability to communicate effectively in English. 

Test-takers must demonstrate clear articulation and the ability to convey ideas concisely to achieve a high score in this section. This includes the ability to organise ideas coherently, use appropriate vocabulary and grammar, and present arguments or opinions logically. Test-takers may be required to write essays, summarise written texts, and respond to prompts within a specified time frame.

Fluency, pronunciation, and oral coherence are also crucial factors that contribute to a high Speaking score in particular.

Short question answers in this section are marked on correct/incorrect while all other question types are partial credit.

Understanding PTE Reading scores

In the PTE Reading section, test-takers are presented with a variety of texts and comprehension questions to assess their reading skills. The ability to understand main ideas, identify supporting details, and infer meaning from context are essential for success in this section. Test-takers must demonstrate proficiency in reading academic and non-academic texts to achieve a high score.

All question types here are marked as partial credit, except for multiple-choice single-answer questions that are marked as correct/incorrect.

Understanding PTE Listening scores

The PTE Listening section measures the test-taker's ability to comprehend spoken English in various contexts. Test-takers are required to listen to audio recordings of conversations, lectures, and presentations, and answer questions based on the information provided. Active listening skills, such as identifying key points and understanding the speaker's tone and attitude, are crucial for scoring success in this part of the exam.

Questions here are marked using both partial credit and correct/incorrect formats.

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) employs a band score system to evaluate English language proficiency. IELTS test scores range from 0 to 9, with each band representing a different level of proficiency. Band 1 indicates non-user proficiency, while Band 9 signifies expert proficiency.

Similar to PTE, IELTS assesses four language skills—Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking—individually.

IELTS band scores are interpreted based on predefined descriptors provided by the test makers, offering transparency and clarity to institutions and employers. For instance, a Band 7 score in IELTS denotes a good user proficiency level, while a Band 9 score reflects a native-like proficiency level. IELTS scores remain valid for two years, ensuring that test-takers have sufficient time to utilise their results for academic or immigration purposes.

Understanding IELTS Listening band scores

In the IELTS Listening section, test-takers are assessed on their ability to understand spoken English in various contexts. This includes listening to conversations, lectures, and presentations and answering questions based on the information provided. Test-takers must demonstrate the ability to identify main ideas, supporting details, and implied meanings to achieve a high score in this section.

This section contains 40 questions with each marked correct/incorrect. An average minimum score of 16/40 points is required for a band score of 5, while an average minimum score of 35/40 is required for a band score of 8 and so on.

Understanding IELTS Reading band scores

The IELTS Reading section evaluates the test-taker's ability to understand written English texts. Test-takers are presented with a variety of texts, including articles, essays, and reports, and are required to answer questions based on the information provided. Key skills assessed in this section include skimming and scanning keywords, and understanding main ideas and supporting details.

Similar to IELTS Listening, this section also contains 40 questions marked correct/incorrect. For IELTS Academic, a band score of 8 requires an average minimum of 35/40 points, whereas for IELTS General Training, it requires 38/40 points.

Understanding IELTS Writing band scores

The IELTS Writing section measures the test-taker's ability to communicate effectively in written English. This includes writing essays, reports, and letters in response to prompts. Test-takers are evaluated on their ability to organise ideas coherently, use appropriate vocabulary and grammar, and present arguments or opinions logically.

Unlike IELTS Listening and Reading, IELTS Writing is scored by a minimum of two qualified examiners who will mark and assess your Writing test components. Having multiple examiners grade this section helps to ensure fairness and accuracy when determining your final band score.

Understanding IELTS Speaking band scores

In the IELTS Speaking section, test-takers are assessed on their ability to communicate orally in English with an examiner. This includes participating in conversations, giving presentations, and expressing opinions on various topics. Fluency, pronunciation, vocabulary, and grammatical accuracy are key factors that contribute to the overall speaking score.

The IELTS Speaking section is scored by the examiner that conducts it. While this might sound intimidating, test-takers should keep in mind that the examiner is there to facilitate your test success—not to fail you. Examiners can repeat, slow down, or rephrase questions upon request so that you can achieve your dream band score.