Choosing an English test isn’t only about which one feels easier. Different universities and visa categories accept different tests, so the right choice depends heavily on where you’re applying.
IELTS
IELTS remains the most widely accepted test across UK, Canadian, Australian and European universities, and it is required for most visa categories in these countries. It includes a face-to-face or video-call speaking section, which some candidates find more natural than a computer-recorded response.
PTE Academic
PTE is fully computer-based, with results typically available faster than IELTS. It’s widely accepted by Australian and UK universities and increasingly by Canadian institutions, but not all visa categories accept it, so it’s worth confirming before you book.
Duolingo English Test
Duolingo is the fastest and most affordable option, taken online from home, and an increasing number of universities accept it for admission. However, it is not accepted for most visa applications, so candidates often need to take IELTS or PTE separately for the visa stage even if a university accepted Duolingo for admission.
What about a Medium of Instruction (MOI) letter?
If your previous education was entirely in English, some universities, including several in Greece and Finland, accept an MOI letter instead of a formal test score. This can save both time and money, but eligibility depends on the specific university and program.
How to decide
Start from your destination country and visa category, then check your shortlisted universities’ accepted tests before you book anything. We confirm this for every student during consultation, so you don’t end up paying for a test that isn’t accepted where you need it.