Three computer-based English tests now compete for your attention when applying for an Australian visa. CELPIP, PTE Academic, and IELTS all meet the Department of Home Affairs requirements, but they test your English in different ways.

Choosing between them isn't about finding the "easiest" test. It's about matching your strengths to a test format. Some people perform better speaking to a computer. Others need that human connection with an examiner. Some want results in two days. Others can wait two weeks.

For a complete overview of CELPIP specifically, see our CELPIP test guide for Australian visas.

Test Format Comparison

Test Duration and Structure

All three tests assess the same four skills: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. But the time and format differ.

CELPIP runs about 3 hours in one sitting. You complete all sections on a computer without breaks. The test uses Canadian English with North American accents.

PTE Academic takes approximately 2 hours. It's the shortest test. The format includes integrated tasks where you might listen to audio and then write a summary.

IELTS runs about 2 hours and 45 minutes. The Speaking test happens separately, sometimes on a different day.

Speaking Assessment: The Biggest Divide

CELPIP records your speaking responses through a microphone. You speak to a screen, not a person. Human raters listen to your recordings later. The test includes 8 different speaking tasks ranging from giving advice to describing unusual situations.

PTE also records your responses, but artificial intelligence scores your speaking. The algorithm evaluates pronunciation, fluency, and content.

IELTS takes the opposite approach with a face-to-face interview lasting 11-14 minutes. An examiner sits across from you and responds in real time.

Writing Tasks

CELPIP focuses on practical writing: an email task (27 minutes) and a survey response (26 minutes). Both require 150-200 words. A built-in spell-check helps catch typing errors.

PTE includes integrated tasks. The "Summarise Written Text" task gives you 10 minutes to write a single-sentence summary. "Write Essay" provides 20 minutes for 200-300 words.

IELTS Academic requires describing graphs in Task 1 (150 words), then writing an essay in Task 2 (250 words).

Results Timeline

How quickly you need your scores often determines which test to choose.

PTE Academic delivers results fastest at 2 business days. Many test-takers report receiving scores within 48 hours. This speed allows time for retakes if your first attempt doesn't hit your target.

CELPIP results arrive in 3-4 business days. Still reasonably quick. The human rating of speaking and writing takes slightly longer than PTE's automated system.

IELTS takes the longest at 13 calendar days for paper-based tests. Computer-delivered IELTS is faster at 3-5 business days. Factor this waiting period into your visa application timeline.

Scoring Systems for Australian Visas

Each test uses different scoring scales, but the Department of Home Affairs specifies equivalent thresholds for visa points.

For Competent English (0 points): CELPIP requires Level 7 in all four skills. PTE needs scores of 50 in each skill. IELTS requires 6.0 in each band.

For Proficient English (10 points): CELPIP requirements vary by skill: Listening 9, Reading 8, Writing 10, Speaking 8. PTE needs 65 in each skill. IELTS requires 7.0 in each band.

For Superior English (20 points): CELPIP demands the highest levels: Listening 10, Reading 10, Writing 12, Speaking 10. PTE needs 79 in each skill. IELTS requires 8.0 in each band. The Superior English requirements make Writing the hardest section for CELPIP test-takers.

For detailed CELPIP score requirements, see our CELPIP score guide for Australian PR.

Which Test Suits Your Strengths?

Choose CELPIP if you prefer everyday English over academic language. The test focuses on practical scenarios like workplace conversations. The test uses North American English, so practice with Canadian accents beforehand.

Choose PTE Academic if you want the fastest possible results and feel comfortable with AI-scored assessments. The automated scoring provides consistent results without examiner variation. PTE also offers the most flexible booking.

Choose IELTS if you prefer human interaction during speaking. The face-to-face interview lets you have a genuine conversation. IELTS is also the most globally recognised qualification.

Important Rules for Australian Visas

All three tests must be taken at secure test centres. Online or at-home versions are not accepted by the Department of Home Affairs. This applies to CELPIP Online, IELTS Online, and remote-proctored versions. The Migration Instrument LIN 25/016 specifies which test formats qualify.

Test results remain valid for three years from the test date. The Study Australia website confirms all nine approved tests are now accepted for student visa applications as well.

How Desire Immigration Can Help

At Desire Immigration, Mrs. Manisha Bhutani (MARN 2217756) and our team offer coaching for CELPIP, PTE, and IELTS. We help you identify which test suits your English strengths and provide targeted preparation. Our Melbourne offices in Truganina, St Albans, and the CBD offer both in-person and online coaching sessions.

FAQs

Which test is easiest for Australian PR?

Difficulty is subjective. CELPIP uses everyday English which some find more accessible. PTE suits those comfortable with technology. IELTS works well for people who prefer human interaction. Try practice tests from each to see which format feels natural.

Can I use CELPIP for Australian skilled migration?

Yes. Since August 2025, CELPIP General is accepted for all Australian skilled migration visas including 189, 190, and 491. The test must be taken at a secure test centre, not online.

Which test gives results fastest?

PTE Academic for 2 business days. CELPIP takes 3-4 business days. IELTS takes 13 days for paper-based or 3-5 days for computer-delivered.

Are the tests accepted equally by the Department of Home Affairs?

Yes. All three tests have equal acceptance for Australian visa applications. Your choice should be based on which format suits your English skills, not on perceived preferences by immigration officials.