If you’re looking for exams similar to IELTS that assess English proficiency, several options are available depending on your goals, such as studying abroad, working, or immigrating. Here’s a breakdown of other exams like IELTS:


1. TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)

  • Purpose: Primarily for academic purposes, accepted by universities in the U.S., Canada, and other countries.
  • Format:
    • Internet-Based Test (TOEFL iBT) is the most common format.
    • Focuses on North American English.
  • Sections: Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing.
  • Scoring: 0-120, with 30 points per section.
  • Duration: About 4 hours.

2. PTE (Pearson Test of English Academic)

  • Purpose: Academic and immigration purposes, widely accepted in Australia, New Zealand, and some other countries.
  • Format: Entirely computer-based, automated scoring.
  • Sections: Speaking & Writing, Reading, Listening.
  • Scoring: 10-90 scale.
  • Duration: 2 hours.

3. CELPIP (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program)

  • Purpose: Primarily for Canadian immigration and work applications.
  • Format: Computer-based.
  • Versions:
    • CELPIP-General (for immigration and work).
    • CELPIP-General LS (for citizenship).
  • Sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking.
  • Scoring: Levels 1-12.
  • Duration: About 3 hours.

4. OET (Occupational English Test)

  • Purpose: For healthcare professionals (doctors, nurses, etc.) seeking to work or study in English-speaking countries.
  • Format: Profession-specific content.
  • Sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking.
  • Scoring: Graded from A (highest) to E (lowest).
  • Duration: About 3 hours.

5. Cambridge English Exams

  • Purpose: General and academic English proficiency for work, study, or immigration.
  • Popular Options:
    • C1 Advanced (CAE): Academic and professional purposes.
    • C2 Proficiency (CPE): Highest level of English proficiency.
  • Format: Paper-based or computer-based.
  • Scoring: Scale of 140-230, corresponding to CEFR levels.

6. Duolingo English Test

  • Purpose: Fast, convenient, and widely accepted by universities.
  • Format: Online test taken from home.
  • Sections: Integrated questions assessing all skills (reading, writing, listening, speaking).
  • Scoring: 10-160 scale.
  • Duration: 1 hour.

7. TESOL/TEFL/ESOL Certifications

  • Purpose: For teaching English as a second language.
  • Format: Varies; some are exam-based, while others involve coursework.
  • Focus: Teacher qualification rather than learner proficiency.

Comparison Factors:

TestPurposeDelivery ModeScoringTest Length
IELTSStudy, work, immigrationPaper/Computer0-9 bands2 hours 45 minutes
TOEFLAcademicComputer0-120~4 hours
PTEAcademic, immigrationComputer10-90~2 hours
CELPIPImmigration, workComputerLevels 1-12~3 hours
DuolingoAcademicOnline10-160~1 hour

Each test has unique advantages, so choose one based on your target institutions, geographic region, or preferred test format.