IELTS vs PTE vs Duolingo: Which English Test Should Pakistani Students Take?
Quick answer
- UK visa: take IELTS for UKVI (or another UKVI-approved SELT) if your university or visa route needs a SELT
- Australia: IELTS or PTE Academic are both widely accepted
- USA and Canada universities: IELTS, TOEFL, and often Duolingo for admission
- Cheapest and fastest: Duolingo, but it is accepted mainly for university admission, not most visas
Almost every study-abroad plan needs an English test. Choosing the wrong one can cost you money and time, so match the test to your destination, university and visa before booking.
Side-by-side comparison
| IELTS | PTE Academic | Duolingo English Test | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fee in Pakistan | About Rs. 71,320–71,920 (Academic/General); Rs. 72,000 (UKVI) | Check pearsonpte.com for the current fee | About US$70, paid online |
| Where you take it | Test centre (computer-based) | Test centre (computer-based) | At home, online |
| Results | Usually 3–5 days (computer) | Usually within about 2 days | Usually within about 2 days |
| Speaking test | Face to face with an examiner | Recorded on computer | Recorded on computer |
| Validity | 2 years | 2 years | 2 years |
| Best for | UK, Canada, Australia, Europe, most universities | Australia, UK, many universities | Admission to many US, Canadian and European universities |
Which test should you choose?
Going to the UK
Many universities accept regular IELTS Academic for degree-level study, but some routes and pathway programmes require a UKVI-approved test such as IELTS for UKVI. Ask your university which one it needs before booking. Read our UK study guide.
Going to Canada
Universities accept several tests. If you will later need a language result for a post-graduation work permit or immigration, choose a test approved by IRCC for that purpose. See our Canada guide.
Going to Australia
IELTS and PTE Academic are both accepted for the student visa and universities. Many students find PTE’s computer-scored format quicker. See our Australia guide.
Going to Germany, Turkey or China
IELTS is the safest choice for English-taught programmes. Some universities accept Duolingo or an English-medium letter.
Preparation tips
- Take a free practice test first to find your weakest skill.
- Writing: learn the task formats and practise under time pressure.
- Speaking: record yourself and listen back; fluency matters more than complex words.
- Reading: practise skimming and scanning on academic texts.
- Book 4–6 weeks ahead, especially around admission deadlines.
Fees are indicative for October 2026 and vary by city and provider. Confirm with the British Council, IDP, Pearson or Duolingo before booking.
