The two most popular English tests for Pakistani study abroad applicants are IELTS Academic (USD 245) and PTE Academic (USD 220). This guide gives you an honest comparison based on what actually gets students accepted and visa-approved in 2026.
Fee Comparison 2026
- IELTS Academic: USD 245 (~PKR 68,000)
- PTE Academic: USD 220 (~PKR 61,000)
- PTE saves you approximately PKR 7,000 per attempt, significant if you need multiple tries
Results Timeline
- IELTS paper-based: 13 days. Computer-delivered: 3–5 days.
- PTE Academic: Usually 48 hours, sometimes within 24 hours.
PTE's 48-hour results are critical if you're applying close to university deadlines. Many Pakistani students miss UK conditional offer deadlines because they sat IELTS too late.
Which Countries Accept Each Test?
| Country | IELTS | PTE |
|---|---|---|
| 🇬🇧 UK | ✅ (UKVI version) | ✅ (UKVI version) |
| 🇦🇺 Australia | ✅ | ✅ |
| 🇩🇪 Germany | ✅ | Varies by uni |
| 🇲🇾 Malaysia | ✅ | ✅ |
| 🇳🇱 Netherlands | ✅ | ✅ |
| 🇮🇪 Ireland | ✅ | ✅ |
| 🇫🇷 France / 🇹🇷 Turkey / 🇨🇾 Cyprus | ✅ | Varies |
Which is Easier for Pakistani Students?
PTE is generally considered more straightforward by Pakistani students because it's AI-scored (consistent, unbiased), has no face-to-face speaking test with an examiner, and allows retesting individual sections. IELTS speaking with an examiner can be nerve-wracking; PTE Speaking is done alone in front of a computer microphone.
Our recommendation: Take PTE Academic if you need fast results, are applying to UK or Australian universities, and want to save PKR 7,000 per attempt. Take IELTS Academic if your specific university requires it, or if you're applying to Germany or a specialist programme that specifies IELTS. Always confirm with your specific university before booking. Our counsellors know the exact requirement for every university in our 167+ partner network.