Compare English Tests

Choosing the right English test depends on what your goals are. If you need an English test score for some official purpose, for example applying for a visa to Australia or a doctoral program at the University of Wisconsin, the test you'll take is usually not up to you. The school or government you are applying to will tell you which test it accepts and you'll take that one. But if you want to take an English test for some other reason, for example to have a certification for your CV or to finish off an English course with some type of proof of your English level, you have more flexibility. In that case, you can choose a test based on many different factors such as how expensive it is, whether or not it is offered at a test center in your city, or how well-known it is in your country. In any case, it's best to take a good look at all the options before making a decision because although standardized English tests may seem the same, each one is actually quite unique.

English test score converter

IELTSTOEICEF SETTOEFLCambridge
Why take this test?Immigration to the UK & university application in the UK and elsewhereProfessional certificationProfessional certificationUniversity application in the USA, Australia, New Zealand, UK or CanadaInstitutional testing & university application in the UK
PriceUS $200-$300US $125-$200freeUS $100-$320US $150-$250
Length175 minutes120 minutes (receptive) or 80 minutes (productive)50 minutes 90 minutes (Essentials) or 180 minutes (iBT)110 to 236 minutes, depending on test version
Result report6 to 13 days3 to 15 daysimmediate6 to 10 days2 to 40 days
Test locationauthorized test centersauthorized test centersopen online accessauthorized test centers or onlineauthorized test centers
Score validity2 years2 yearsforever2 yearsforever
For university application?UK (often), Australia & Canada (sometimes)nonoUSA (often), UK & Canada (sometimes)UK (often: higher level tests only)
For immigration?UK, Canada, AustralianonoyesUK
For job seekers?noyesyesnoyes
For school & corporate testing?noyesyesyesyes
As a study tool?nonoyesnono

Information valid at the time of writing. Check official test websites for prices in your area.