If you’re planning to study in Australia in 2025, proving your English proficiency is a key part of the application process. But with multiple options available—IELTS, PTE, and Duolingo English Test—which one should you choose?
In this blog, we compare these three tests to help you make the right decision based on your goals, budget, and timeline.
1. IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
1. Widely Accepted:
Accepted by almost all Australian universities and visa authorities.
Recognized for both academic and migration purposes.
2. Test Format:
Four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.
Speaking is done face-to-face with an examiner.
3. Test Duration:
Around 2 hours 45 minutes
4. Results Time:
3–5 days (computer-based), 13 days (paper-based)
5. Test Fee in Nepal (approx.):
NPR 36,000–40,000
2. PTE (Pearson Test of English Academic)
Widely Accepted in Australia:
Accepted by 100% of Australian universities.
Approved for student visas and migration.
1. Test Format:
Fully computer-based. Includes Reading, Writing, Speaking, Listening.
AI scoring for fast and unbiased results.
2. Test Duration:
Around 2 hours
3. Results Time:
Within 1 to 2 days
4. Test Fee in Nepal (approx.):
NPR 26,000–30,000
3. Duolingo English Test
Accepted by Some Australian Universities (not all):
Gaining popularity, especially post-COVID.
Still not accepted for student visa applications in most cases.
1. Test Format:
Entirely online. Adaptive test (difficulty adjusts based on performance).
Includes video interview and writing sample.
2. Test Duration:
Only 1 hour
3. Results Time:
Within 48 hours
4. Test Fee (approx.):
Only USD 59 (~NPR 8,000)
Comparison Table
| Feature | IELTS | PTE | Duolingo |
| Accepted for Visa | Yes | Yes | No |
| University Acceptance | Very High | Very High | Limited |
| Test Type | Paper/Computer + Interview | Fully Computer-Based | Fully Online |
| Duration | 2h 45m | 2 hours | 1 hour |
| Result Time | 3–13 days | 1–2 days | 2 days |
| Approx. Cost (NPR) | 36,000–40,000 | 26,000–29,000 | 8,000 |
So, Which One Should You Choose in 2025?
Choose IELTS or PTE if you’re applying for Australian student visas—they’re fully recognized by the Department of Home Affairs.
Pick PTE if you want faster results and are comfortable with computer-based testing.
Try Duolingo if your target university explicitly accepts it, and you’re looking for a budget-friendly test—but confirm visa policies before relying on it.
Final Tip:
Before booking any test, always check the latest English language requirements of both the university and Australian visa authority.
For personalized guidance and admission support, contact us at:
Putalisadak, Baneshwor, Kathmandu
01-547547 / 01-547548, 9761799575
www.ideaconsultancysevices.com
IDEA Consultancy Services – Turning Study Abroad Dreams Into Reality