Quick answer
The best English test depends on where you are applying. IELTS Academic is the most widely accepted by universities and visa authorities. PTE Academic is computer-based with fast results and is widely accepted in Australia and the UK. TOEFL iBT is accepted by many universities worldwide. The Duolingo English Test is convenient and accepted by many universities for admission, but not by every university or visa route. Always check the exact test and score your university and visa route require.
Key takeaways
- Check acceptance for both admission and the visa before booking any test.
- Some UK visa routes require a Secure English Language Test (SELT), such as IELTS for UKVI or PTE Academic UKVI.
- Duolingo is accepted by many universities for admission but is not accepted for every visa route.
- Choose the format that suits you: paper, computer, speaking with an examiner or with a computer.
The four tests compared
| IELTS Academic | PTE Academic | TOEFL iBT | Duolingo English Test | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Format | Paper or computer; speaking with an examiner | Computer; speaking recorded | Computer; speaking recorded | Online at home; adaptive |
| Scoring | Bands 0–9 | 10–90 | 0–120 | 10–160 |
| Typical result time | A few days to two weeks | Usually within days | About a week | Usually within days |
| Best known for | Widest acceptance | Speed; Australia and UK | US and global universities | Convenience and cost |
Which test for which destination?
- UK: universities can assess English themselves for degree-level courses, but if a SELT is required you must use an approved test such as IELTS for UKVI.
- Australia: the Department of Home Affairs accepts tests including IELTS, PTE Academic and TOEFL iBT, with minimum scores set for student visas.
- Italy, Lithuania, Cyprus and Turkey: universities set their own rules and often accept IELTS, TOEFL and sometimes Duolingo or internal tests.
- China: English-taught programmes may accept IELTS, TOEFL or proof of previous study in English; Chinese-taught programmes require HSK.
How to choose the right test
List your universities
Write down the accepted tests and minimum scores for each programme.
Check visa requirements
Confirm whether your destination needs a specific test for the visa.
Match the format to your strengths
Prefer speaking to a person? IELTS. Comfortable with computers and fast typing? PTE or TOEFL.
Plan time for a retake
Book your test early enough to retake it before application deadlines if needed.
Once you have your scores, prepare the rest of your file with our document checklist.
Frequently asked questions
01Which English test is easiest?
No test is objectively easiest. Choose the format that suits your skills, and make sure it is accepted by your university and visa route.
02Is Duolingo accepted for a UK student visa?
Duolingo is not a UK Secure English Language Test. Some UK universities accept it for admission when they assess your English themselves, but check each university.
03How long are English test results valid?
Results are commonly treated as valid for two years, but universities and visa authorities set their own validity rules.
04Can I study abroad without IELTS?
Sometimes. Some universities accept other tests, previous study in English or their own assessments. Visa rules may still require a specific test.
Sources and official resources
Information in this guide was checked against the following sources on 10 October 2026. Rules change, so always confirm the latest details.
