When planning to study, work, or migrate to an English-speaking country, one important step is proving your English language skills. Governments, universities, and employers in countries like Canada, the USA, Australia, New Zealand, and the UK usually require applicants to take an approved English language test. However, not all tests are accepted in every country. Knowing which test is right for your destination can save you time and money.
1. IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
Accepted in:
Canada | United States | Australia | New Zealand | United Kingdom
Overview:
IELTS is one of the most recognized English language tests worldwide. It is available in two formats:
- Academic – for higher education and professional registration
- General Training – for migration and work purposes
Key Features:
- Assesses listening, reading, writing, and speaking
- Results available within 13 days
- Accepted by over 10,000 institutions globally
- Preferred test for immigration to Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia
Are you ready to test your skills?
2. TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
Accepted in:
United States | Canada | Australia | New Zealand | United Kingdom
Overview:
TOEFL is especially popular among students applying to universities in the United States. The internet-based version (TOEFL iBT) is the most widely used.
Key Features:
- Measures reading, listening, speaking, and writing
- Scores are valid for 2 years
- Results available in 6–10 days
- Recognized by over 11,000 universities and institutions worldwide
3. PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English Academic)
Accepted in:
Australia | New Zealand | United Kingdom | Canada (select institutions) | United States (many institutions)
Overview:
PTE Academic is a fully computer-based English test that uses AI to provide quick and accurate results.
Key Features:
- Fast results (typically within 48 hours)
- Tests all four language skills
- Accepted for student visas in Australia and New Zealand
- Increasingly recognized by universities in the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada
4. CELPIP (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program)
Accepted in:
Canada (only)
Overview:
CELPIP is specifically designed for Canadian immigration, citizenship, and professional designation requirements. It is available in:
- CELPIP – General
- CELPIP – General LS (Listening and Speaking only)
Key Features:
- Fully computer-delivered
- Results are typically available in 4–5 days
- Accepted by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)
Note: CELPIP is not accepted outside of Canada.
Are you ready to test your skills?
5. OET (Occupational English Test) Accepted in:
Australia | New Zealand | United Kingdom | Canada (for healthcare only) | United States (limited)
Overview:
OET is tailored for healthcare professionals, such as doctors, nurses, and pharmacists, assessing English skills in a medical context.
Key Features:
- Focuses on healthcare-specific scenarios
- Recognized by healthcare boards in Australia, the United Kingdom, New Zealand, and Canada
- Results are usually available in 16 business days
Which Test Should You Choose?
| Purpose | Recommended tests |
| Study Abroad | IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic |
| Skilled Migration | IELTS General Training, CELPIP, PTE |
| Healthcare Employment | OET (or IELTS/OET depending on destination) |
| Fast Results Required | PTE, CELPIP |
Before selecting a test, always verify the specific requirements of your target university, immigration program, or employer. While IELTS and TOEFL are widely accepted, other tests like PTE, CELPIP, and OET may offer advantages depending on your goals and field.
Choosing the right test will not only boost your application success but also ensure a smoother transition to your new life abroad.
