6 most popular English language proficiency tests

“If you are applying to study at a university overseas, you’ll need to take an English language proficiency test. This is because universities want to make sure international students can successfully manage coursework, communication , and academic writing in an English-speaking environment. But as more English language proficiency tests become widely recognised by universities worldwide, choosing the right one can be challenging. Since each test varies in structure, scoring criteria, accessibility, and acceptance, understanding these differences can help you make a more informed decision. In this guide, we compare the most popular English language proficiency tests — TOEFL iBT, TOEIC, Duolingo English Test, IELTS, and PTE — you should know when applying for university in 2026. TL;DR? Here’s a summary: Most widely accepted English language proficiency tests: TOEFL iBT and IELTS Most affordable English language proficiency tests: Duolingo English Test Best English language proficiency test for work/business: TOEIC English language proficiency tests with the fastest results: PTE and Duolingo Most academically rigorous English language proficiency test: Cambridge C1/C2 exams What are the English language proficiency tests accepted by universities? 1. Test of English as a Foreign Language Internet-Based Test (TOEFL iBT) The TOEFL iBT is one of the most widely accepted English language proficiency tests in the world. It’s accepted by over 13,000 institutions in more than 160 countries, but those who sit for the test often target universities in the US, Canada, and Australia, as well as other English-speaking countries. A Reddit user says, “It is a test of your ability to use academic English. My grandfather has used English for 89 years. But he would probably get a low TOEFL score because he didn’t go to high school and can’t respond to questions really quickly.” In under two hours, you’re assessed on four areas of language use — reading, language, speaking, and writing. ETS offers a comprehensive portal for you to access preparation material, feedback on your practice, and a progress tracker. The minimum TOEFL score you need depends on where you’re applying to. Elite universities typically require scores above 100, while universities in the US, UK, and Canada may accept scores in the 80–90 range. However, you should always verify the latest requirements directly through the university’s official website, as admission criteria can change annually. 2. The Test of English for International Communication (TOEIC) TOEIC is facilitated by the same company as the TOEFL; both are designed to test the capabilities of non-native English speakers. Here’s the difference: TOEFL is for academics, and TOEIC leans towards the global workforce. Many universities across the globe accept TOEIC scores; in France’s engineering schools , TOEIC is a compulsory English language proficiency test for students. There are three types of TOEIC tests available: Listening and Reading Test Speaking and Writing Test Bridge Tests Again, scoring requirements depend on the university or company. Generally speaking, universities are looking at an average minimum score of 750 , while companies are looking for an 800 to 850 range out of a possible 990. A young professional in South Korea told The Korea Herald that she thought only a score of 950 (C1 level of proficiency) would be a safe bet for job applicants. She said, “With a TOEIC score below 900, I think you really need something that’s very exceptional under your belt — it could be your GPA or extracurricular activities — to have an edge in the job market right now.” The Duolingo English Test, a relatively new option launched in 2016, is making English language proficiency tests a little more accessible. 3. Duolingo English Test Duolingo’s no longer just a game app you’re keeping track of with a daily streak. In 2016, the Duolingo English Test was launched as an English language proficiency test made accessible at a lower cost. They offer fee waivers to low-income students. You don’t need to book an appointment, as you can take it from any location so long as you have a good Internet connection. It’s breaking barriers; a stepping stone to more than 6,000 universities around the world, though some universities may ask for additional English requirements. Those who are already on board though are top names like Yale, Imperial College London, and New York University. The Duolingo English Test is computer-based, and possesses a unique quality of being adaptable in terms of difficulty and question sequence to each test taker. It evaluates your reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills. The test is broken down into three sections, all to be completed within an hour: Setup and ID verification (5 minutes) Scored assessment (45 minutes) Writing and speaking samples (10 minutes) You’ll get your scores within 48 hours after taking the test. The scores range from between 10 to 160, with four subscores in literacy, comprehension, conversation, and production. If you’re using the test to apply to university, Duolingo’s got plenty of resources to prepare you for it, including a free practice run . 4. International English Language Testing System (IELTS) The IELTS , run by the British Council, is another English language proficiency test that you’ve probably seen everywhere, in every admissions page. It’s the only English test accepted by all four major immigration authorities – Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and United Kingdom – and trusted by thousands of organisations globally. Every year, about four million people sit for the two hour and 45-minute long test, undergoing four assessments: reading, writing, speaking, and listening. There’s two types of IELTS exams: one for academic purposes, and the other which is general training for the workplace and everyday use — it’s pretty obvious which one you’d be going for as a student. The cost does vary from country to country, and even the location within, with the fee for available tests in the UK ranging from £215 to £250 (≈US$287 to US$334). It is important to know that from mid-2026, IELTS will no longer be offered on paper . But if you still like writing by hand, some locations will let you complete the Writing section on paper with the new “Writing on Paper” option. The test is graded on a 9-band system, with 9 being the top score (an expert level of skill), and 0 being the lowest (meaning you didn’t attempt the test). When applying to a university, you should aim for a score between 6.0 and 6.5 for a bachelor’s degree and between 6.5 and 7.5 for a master’s degree . “Do not rely on luck! Rely only on yourself and your English skills!” A Reddit user wrote, advising students to attend a comprehensive English class. “The more English vocabulary you have at your disposal, the more you can express yourself in English in the IELTS test.” IELTS and TOEFL are the most widely accepted English language proficiency tests, but they’re not the only ones available. 5. Pearson Test of English (PTE) The PTE exam is quite new in comparison to the IELTS and TOEFL tests, having been launched in 2009 by Pearson Language Tests. But it’s still recognised by over 4,000 institutions around the world, including Ivy League and Russell Group universities. It’s computer-based, with over 500 test centres across the globe hosting the PTE, and the option to take it online in certain countries, but the prices do range depending on where you are. The PTE Academic costs AUD$490 (≈US$351) in Australia, and even lower in Canada, at CAD$360 (≈US$261) — so you’ll have to check out the prices for yourself. There are four types of PTE tests. If you’re a student, then you’ll opt for the PTE Academic , which you can also use for work and migration visas, as well as professional applications. PTE Core is recognised for permanent residency or citizenship in Canada. PTE Academic UKVI supports student and work visa applications, while PTE Home is designed for family visas, settlement, and British citizenship. The PTE Academic test spans a two hour session, with three parts: Part 1 – Speaking & Writing (76–84 minutes) Part 2 – Reading (22–30 minutes) Part 3 – Listening (31–39 minutes) A reddit user says, “I found PTE way easier than IELTS! Studied for only 5 days and got 90 in each category. It’s a lot easier if you follow the strategies and tricks (widely available on YouTube/Google).” You’ll get your results within two days, which is far quicker than the IELTS and TOEFL results. The scores are graded based on the Global Scale of English; the thermometer-style scale of 10-90, with 10 being the lowest. If you’re applying to university, you should be aiming for a 51-60 range score as an undergrad student, and a 57-67 for postgraduate programmes . 6. C1 Advanced & C2 Proficiency The Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) was published in 2001, and has since been used as a six-scale grading system. It goes from A1, the most beginner level grade, to C2, the most proficient in the language. That’s the system that the Cambridge English Qualifications use — a series of in-depth exams to help you develop rigorous language skills. While there are different levels of exams , you’ll likelly sit for one of these two if you’re applying to university: the C1 Advanced, or the C2 Proficiency. These tests are recognised by thousands of institutions around the world, including a 100% acceptance rate by universities in Ireland, Australia, and New Zealand. The C2 Proficiency qualification , formerly known as the Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE), is the highest level of English that you can attain in the CEFR. The exam can take place either digitally or on-paper, and spans approximately four hours of assessment. It’s typically sat by students applying for further education programmes, like a doctorate degree. You’ll need to receive a score between 200 to 230 to receive a certificate. The C1 Advanced qualification , formerly titled the Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE), is just a level below proficient fluency, but still shows that you’re adept at using the English language in an academic or professional setting. It’s also available to take on-paper or digitally, spanning four hours. For this level, you’ll need to receive a score between 180-199 to receive a certificate. English language proficiency tests quick comparison: Test Best for Format Test duration Typical university requirement TOEFL iBT Academic study, especially in the US, Canada, and Australia Internet-based Under 2 hours 80–100+ depending on university TOEIC Work/business and some university admissions Multiple test types Varies by test ~750 for universities; 800–850 for jobs Duolingo English Test Affordable and accessible university admissions Online, computer-adaptive About 1 hour Depends on institution IELTS University admissions, migration, and visas Computer-based (from mid-2026) 2 hours 45 minutes 6.0–6.5 (Undergraduate), 6.5–7.5 (Postgraduate) PTE Academic University admissions, work, and migration Computer-based 2 hours 51–60 (Undergraduate), 57–67 (Postgraduate) A new benchmark for English language proficiency tests As of September 2025, the English Language Standard Authority (ELSA) has launched as an independent benchmarking body for English Language Teaching (ELT) tests . This new non-profit aims to provide guidance and comparison across different English tests in a fair, transparent way. Through consultation services, ELSA will give institutions, educators, and policymakers clearer, unbiased insights on how to select and implement English language tests. They hope to become “the go-to authority for objective and transparent insights in an often opaque and commercially driven landscape”. Disclaimer: This article was last updated on May 15, 2026.

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