Originally published July 2026. Last reviewed 3 July 2026.
TL;DR — Quick Decision Guide
- Tightest budget? Duolingo English Test at USD 65 (per duolingo.com) is the most affordable option.
- Need results fast? PTE Academic delivers scores in 1–2 business days (per pearsonpte.com).
- Heading to the UK? IELTS for UKVI is mandatory for most UK visa routes.
- Applying to the USA or Canada? All four tests are widely accepted — TOEFL iBT and Duolingo give you the most flexibility.
- Prefer speaking face-to-face? IELTS is the only test with a live human examiner for speaking.
- Healthcare professional? Consider OET — it is purpose-built for medical careers.
- Want to test from home? Duolingo (per duolingo.com) and TOEFL iBT Home Edition (per ets.org) let you take the test on your own computer.
Every year, tens of thousands of Nepali students sit for an English proficiency test as part of their study-abroad journey. Choosing the right test can save you money, reduce stress, and even improve your chances of admission. Yet the landscape has never been more crowded: alongside long-established exams like IELTS and TOEFL, newer options such as the Duolingo English Test and the fully computer-based PTE Academic have changed the equation.
This guide puts all four major English proficiency tests side by side — covering formats, fees specific to Nepal, score equivalencies, acceptance by destination country, and personalised recommendations based on your student profile. We also cover the Occupational English Test (OET) for healthcare workers. By the end, you should have a clear answer to the question: which test is the right one for me?
At a Glance: The Four Major English Proficiency Tests
Before diving into the details, here is a bird’s-eye view of how IELTS, PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, and the Duolingo English Test compare on the most important dimensions.
| Feature | IELTS | PTE Academic | TOEFL iBT | Duolingo English Test |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Full Name | International English Language Testing System | Pearson Test of English Academic | Test of English as a Foreign Language — Internet-Based Test | Duolingo English Test (DET) |
| Administered By | British Council & IDP | Pearson | ETS (Educational Testing Service) | Duolingo |
| Test Format | Paper-based or Computer-based | Computer-based only | Computer-based (test centre or Home Edition) | Computer-adaptive, online from home |
| Score Range | Band 0–9 (0.5 increments) | 10–90 | 0–120 (30 per section) | 10–160 (per duolingo.com) |
| Test Duration | Approx. 2 hours 45 minutes | Approx. 2 hours | Approx. 2 hours (per ets.org) | Approx. 1 hour (per duolingo.com) |
| Score Validity | 2 years | 2 years | 2 years | 2 years |
| Results Turnaround | 3–5 days (computer) / 13 days (paper) per ielts.org | 1–2 business days (per pearsonpte.com) | 4–8 days (per ets.org) | Within 48 hours (per duolingo.com) |
| Speaking Component | Live interview with a human examiner | Computer-recorded responses | Computer-recorded responses | Computer-recorded responses |
| Can Be Taken From Home? | Limited online option (check local availability) | No — test centre only | Yes — Home Edition available (per ets.org) | Yes — taken entirely from home (per duolingo.com) |
Fee Comparison: What Each Test Costs in Nepal
Cost matters, especially for students funding their own education. Here is a direct comparison of registration fees for all four tests as applicable to test-takers in Nepal. Currency conversions are approximate and based on prevailing exchange rates — always confirm the current rate at the time of registration.
| Test | Fee (USD) | Fee (NPR Approx.) | Source | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| IELTS (Computer-based) | ~USD 235 | NPR 33,000 | British Council Nepal | Fee set in NPR; may vary slightly by centre |
| IELTS (Paper-based) | ~USD 258 | NPR 36,200 | British Council Nepal | Paper-based is more expensive than computer-based |
| PTE Academic | ~USD 220 | NPR 28,000–33,000 | pearsonpte.com | Price may fluctuate with exchange rate |
| TOEFL iBT | USD 195 | ~NPR 27,420 | ets.org | Includes 4 free score reports |
| Duolingo English Test | USD 65 | ~NPR 9,100 | duolingo.com | Unlimited free score reports; taken from home |
Test Format and Section Breakdown
Understanding the structure of each test helps you choose one that aligns with your strengths. Some students thrive in a live speaking interview; others perform better when recording their responses on a computer. Here is a detailed section-by-section breakdown.
IELTS — Section Details
IELTS has two versions: Academic (for university admission) and General Training (for migration and some professional contexts). The section timings are the same for both.
- Listening: 30 minutes — 4 recorded monologues and conversations, 40 questions (per ielts.org)
- Reading: 60 minutes — 3 long passages with tasks including multiple choice, matching, and short answers (per ielts.org)
- Writing: 60 minutes — Task 1 (describe a graph, table, or diagram for Academic; write a letter for General Training) and Task 2 (essay) (per ielts.org)
- Speaking: 11–14 minutes — face-to-face interview with a certified examiner in three parts: introduction, individual long turn, and two-way discussion (per ielts.org)
PTE Academic — Section Details
- Speaking & Writing (combined): 54–67 minutes — personal introduction, read aloud, repeat sentence, describe image, re-tell lecture, answer short question, summarise written text, essay (per pearsonpte.com)
- Reading: 29–30 minutes — multiple choice, re-order paragraphs, fill in the blanks (per pearsonpte.com)
- Listening: 30–43 minutes — summarise spoken text, multiple choice, fill in the blanks, highlight correct summary, select missing word, highlight incorrect words, write from dictation (per pearsonpte.com)
TOEFL iBT — Section Details
- Reading: 35 minutes — 2 passages with 10 questions each (per ets.org)
- Listening: 36 minutes — lectures and conversations with questions (per ets.org)
- Speaking: 16 minutes — 4 tasks including independent and integrated speaking (per ets.org)
- Writing: 29 minutes — 1 integrated task and 1 writing for an academic discussion task (per ets.org)
Duolingo English Test — Section Details
- Adaptive Test: approximately 45 minutes — computer-adaptive questions covering reading, writing, listening, and speaking in an integrated format (per duolingo.com)
- Writing Sample: approximately 10 minutes — open-ended writing prompt (per duolingo.com)
- Speaking Sample: approximately 5 minutes — open-ended speaking prompt (per duolingo.com)
- Total Duration: approximately 1 hour (per duolingo.com)
The writing and speaking samples are not scored but are shared with institutions alongside your certified score to give admissions officers a richer picture of your abilities.
| Section | IELTS | PTE Academic | TOEFL iBT | Duolingo |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Listening | 30 min | 30–43 min | 36 min | Integrated adaptive format — approx. 1 hour total (per duolingo.com) |
| Reading | 60 min | 29–30 min | 35 min | |
| Writing | 60 min | 54–67 min (combined) | 29 min | |
| Speaking | 11–14 min | 16 min | ||
| Total | ~2 hr 45 min | ~2 hr | ~2 hr (per ets.org) | ~1 hr |
Score Equivalency: Comparing Scores Across Tests
Different universities require different tests, and you may wonder how a score on one test translates to another. The table below shows approximate equivalencies compiled from official concordance data published by the testing organisations. Keep in mind that each institution may set its own specific requirements, so always verify with the university directly.
| IELTS Band | PTE Academic Score | TOEFL iBT Score | Duolingo English Test Score | Proficiency Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6.0 | 50 | 60–78 | 100–104 | Competent User |
| 6.5 | 58 | 79–93 | 105–114 | Competent User (Upper) |
| 7.0 | 65 | 94–101 | 115–124 | Good User |
| 7.5 | 73 | 102–109 | 125–134 | Very Good User |
| 8.0 | 79 | 110–114 | 135–144 | Very Good User (Upper) |
| 8.5 | 83 | 115–117 | 145–154 | Expert User |
Test Acceptance by Destination Country
One of the most critical factors in choosing a test is whether your target country and institution actually accept it. The situation varies significantly by destination. Below is a summary of acceptance patterns for the most popular study-abroad destinations among Nepali students.
| Country | IELTS | PTE Academic | TOEFL iBT | Duolingo | Notes for Nepali Students |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| United Kingdom | Yes (IELTS for UKVI required for visa) | Accepted by many universities for admission (not for visa) | Accepted by many universities for admission (not for visa) | Some universities accept for admission (not for visa) | IELTS for UKVI or Trinity ISE is mandatory for Tier 4 student visas. Other tests may satisfy the university but not UKVI. |
| United States | Yes — widely accepted | Yes — accepted by many institutions | Yes — most widely accepted | Yes — accepted by 5,000+ programmes (per duolingo.com) | USA offers the most flexibility — all four tests are broadly accepted. Check individual programme requirements. |
| Canada | Yes — required for many immigration pathways | Yes — accepted by most universities and some immigration streams | Yes — accepted by universities | Yes — growing acceptance among universities | For Express Entry and other immigration pathways, IELTS General Training or CELPIP are the designated tests. |
| Australia | Yes — accepted for visa and admission | Yes — accepted for visa and admission | Yes — accepted for admission (check visa requirements) | Limited — some universities accept for admission, not accepted for visa | IELTS and PTE Academic are both accepted by the Department of Home Affairs for student visa applications. |
| New Zealand | Yes — accepted for visa and admission | Yes — accepted for visa and admission | Yes — accepted by most universities | Limited acceptance | IELTS and PTE are accepted by Immigration New Zealand. |
| Germany | Yes — widely accepted for English-taught programmes | Yes — growing acceptance | Yes — widely accepted | Some universities accept | Many German programmes also accept TestDaF or DSH for German-taught courses. For English-taught programmes, IELTS and TOEFL are the most commonly listed. |
| Japan | Yes | Limited | Yes — preferred by many programmes | Growing acceptance | TOEFL iBT has historically been the dominant English test in Japan. |
| South Korea | Yes | Limited | Yes — widely used | Some programmes accept | TOEFL and IELTS are the most commonly requested. |
Processing Time and Results Delivery
If you are working against a tight application deadline, the speed at which you receive your scores can be decisive. Here is how the four tests compare on results delivery.
- PTE Academic: Typically within 1–2 business days (per pearsonpte.com). This is the fastest turnaround among the four tests, making PTE an excellent choice if you need last-minute scores.
- Duolingo English Test: Results within 48 hours (per duolingo.com). Additionally, score reports are sent to institutions for free — there is no limit on the number of score reports you can send.
- IELTS (Computer-based): Results in 3–5 days (per ielts.org). Significantly faster than the paper-based version.
- TOEFL iBT: Results in 4–8 days (per ets.org). Includes 4 free score reports to institutions of your choice.
- IELTS (Paper-based): Results in 13 days (per ielts.org). The slowest option — plan your test date accordingly if choosing paper-based IELTS.
Pros and Cons of Each Test
Every test has strengths and drawbacks. Here is an honest assessment to help you weigh your options.
IELTS — Pros and Cons
Pros:
- The most universally recognised English proficiency test worldwide
- Face-to-face speaking test can be an advantage if you communicate well in person
- Available in both paper-based and computer-based formats
- Accepted for UK visa applications (IELTS for UKVI version)
- Extensive preparation materials and a large community of test-takers in Nepal
- Multiple test centres across Nepal (Kathmandu, Pokhara, and other cities)
Cons:
- Among the most expensive tests in Nepal (NPR 33,000–36,200 per British Council Nepal)
- Paper-based results take 13 days — the slowest delivery (per ielts.org)
- Speaking test is scheduled separately, sometimes on a different day
- Handwriting legibility can affect paper-based writing scores
PTE Academic — Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Fastest results — 1–2 business days (per pearsonpte.com)
- Fully computer-scored, reducing potential examiner subjectivity
- Accepted for Australian and New Zealand visa applications
- Unlimited free score reports to institutions
- Integrated scoring system means skills like reading and listening can boost each other
Cons:
- Speaking into a microphone in a room with other test-takers can be distracting
- Not accepted for UK visa applications (only for university admission at some institutions)
- Fewer test centres in Nepal compared to IELTS
- The integrated format can be confusing for first-time test-takers
- Accent and pronunciation scoring by computer may disadvantage some speakers
TOEFL iBT — Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely well recognised in the United States, Canada, and East Asia
- Home Edition allows you to test from home with online proctoring (per ets.org)
- MyBest Scores feature combines your highest section scores from multiple test dates (per ets.org)
- Comparatively lower fee — USD 195 / ~NPR 27,420 (per ets.org)
- All four skills tested on one day in one sitting
Cons:
- Strong American English bias in listening materials
- Speaking into a microphone (no live examiner)
- Not accepted for UK or Australian visa applications in most cases
- Results take 4–8 days (per ets.org)
- Some students find the integrated tasks (reading + listening + speaking/writing) challenging
Duolingo English Test — Pros and Cons
Pros:
- By far the most affordable — USD 65 (per duolingo.com)
- Can be taken from home on a personal computer anytime (per duolingo.com)
- Shortest test duration — approximately 1 hour (per duolingo.com)
- Results within 48 hours (per duolingo.com)
- Unlimited free score reports to institutions
- Accepted by 5,000+ programmes worldwide (per duolingo.com)
- No need to travel to a test centre — ideal for students outside Kathmandu
Cons:
- Not accepted for UK, Australian, or New Zealand visa applications
- Narrower acceptance compared to IELTS or TOEFL, especially outside the USA
- Computer-adaptive format means the difficulty changes mid-test, which can feel unpredictable
- Requires a reliable computer, webcam, and stable internet connection
- Relatively newer test — some employers and professional bodies may not yet recognise it
Which Test for Which Destination? A Decision Framework
Here is a straightforward decision framework to help you pick the right test based on your target destination and circumstances.
If You Are Going to the United Kingdom
You almost certainly need IELTS for UKVI. While many UK universities accept PTE, TOEFL, or even Duolingo for admission offers, the UK visa system (UKVI) has a restricted list of Secure English Language Tests (SELTs). IELTS for UKVI, administered by specific British Council or IDP centres, is the most widely available SELT option. If you plan to study in the UK, take IELTS for UKVI to avoid complications during the visa stage.
If You Are Going to the United States
You have the most freedom here. TOEFL iBT has historically been the dominant test for US admissions, and virtually every US university accepts it. However, IELTS acceptance in the US has grown enormously, and the Duolingo English Test gained widespread US acceptance starting during the pandemic — over 5,000 programmes now accept it (per duolingo.com). If budget is a concern and your target schools accept DET, it is an excellent choice. If you want the safest bet, TOEFL iBT or IELTS remain the gold standard.
If You Are Going to Australia or New Zealand
IELTS and PTE Academic are both accepted for visa applications by the Australian Department of Home Affairs and Immigration New Zealand. PTE Academic’s fast result delivery (1–2 business days per pearsonpte.com) gives it an edge if you are working to a tight deadline. For Australia specifically, PTE Academic has become exceptionally popular among Nepali students because of its speed and its dual acceptance for both admission and visa purposes.
If You Are Going to Canada
For university admission, all four tests are widely accepted. However, if you also plan to apply for permanent residency through Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Programs, be aware that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) accepts IELTS General Training and CELPIP for immigration language benchmarks — PTE, TOEFL, and Duolingo are not accepted for immigration points calculation. Take IELTS if post-study immigration is part of your plan.
If You Are Going to Germany, Japan, or South Korea
For English-taught programmes in these countries, IELTS and TOEFL iBT are the safest choices. PTE Academic acceptance is growing but not universal. Duolingo acceptance varies by institution. Always verify with the specific programme you are applying to.
Special Case: OET for Healthcare Workers
If you are a healthcare professional — doctor, nurse, pharmacist, dentist, veterinarian, or allied health worker — the Occupational English Test (OET) deserves special consideration. Unlike general English proficiency tests, OET uses healthcare-specific scenarios for its reading, writing, listening, and speaking components. Instead of writing an essay about environmental policy, for example, you might write a referral letter from one doctor to another.
OET is accepted by:
- Medical councils and nursing boards in the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, Singapore, Dubai, and Ukraine
- UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) as a Secure English Language Test (SELT) for healthcare professionals
- The Australian Department of Home Affairs for visa applications in healthcare occupations
For Nepali nurses, doctors, and other healthcare workers heading to the UK, Australia, or New Zealand, OET can be easier than IELTS because the content is familiar — you are tested on language you actually use in your profession. Check whether your target regulatory body accepts OET before registering.
Personalised Recommendations for Nepali Students
Not every student has the same profile. Here are targeted recommendations based on common situations Nepali students face.
Profile 1: Budget-Conscious Student Applying to US Universities
Recommended Test: Duolingo English Test
At USD 65 (per duolingo.com), the Duolingo English Test costs a fraction of other options. You can take it from home, eliminating travel expenses. With over 5,000 accepting programmes (per duolingo.com), many top US universities — including Ivy League institutions — accept DET. This is ideal if you are applying to multiple schools and want to send unlimited free score reports.
Profile 2: Student Targeting Australia with a Tight Deadline
Recommended Test: PTE Academic
PTE Academic delivers results in just 1–2 business days (per pearsonpte.com) and is accepted by the Australian Department of Home Affairs for student visa applications. If your application deadline is approaching or you need to respond quickly to a conditional offer, PTE gives you the fastest path to a certified score.
Profile 3: Student Heading to the UK
Recommended Test: IELTS for UKVI
There is no practical alternative for UK student visas. While other tests may satisfy university admission requirements, IELTS for UKVI is the most readily available SELT test in Nepal. Book well in advance — IELTS test dates can fill up quickly during peak season (August–November).
Profile 4: Strong Speaker Who Prefers Face-to-Face Communication
Recommended Test: IELTS
IELTS is the only major test that features a live, in-person speaking interview. If you are confident in face-to-face English conversation, this format allows you to demonstrate your communication skills naturally — including body language, eye contact, and conversational flow. Students who feel awkward speaking into a microphone often score higher on IELTS speaking than on computer-recorded alternatives.
Profile 5: Tech-Savvy Student Comfortable with Computers
Recommended Test: PTE Academic or TOEFL iBT
If you type fast, are comfortable navigating computer interfaces, and prefer objective, algorithm-based scoring without examiner subjectivity, PTE Academic is designed for you. TOEFL iBT is another strong option, especially with its Home Edition (per ets.org) that lets you test from home.
Profile 6: Student Living Outside Kathmandu Valley
Recommended Test: Duolingo English Test or TOEFL iBT Home Edition
If travelling to Kathmandu or Pokhara for a test centre is expensive or inconvenient, home-based tests eliminate that barrier. Duolingo can be taken anytime on a personal computer (per duolingo.com), and TOEFL iBT Home Edition offers the same test as the centre-based version (per ets.org). You only need a computer with a camera, a microphone, and a stable internet connection.
Profile 7: Nurse or Doctor Planning to Work Abroad
Recommended Test: OET
Healthcare professionals should seriously consider the Occupational English Test. OET tests your English in clinical contexts — reading medical journals, writing referral letters, listening to patient consultations, and discussing treatment plans. It is accepted by nursing and medical councils in the UK, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, Singapore, and Dubai.
How to Prepare: Practical Tips for Nepali Students
Regardless of which test you choose, the following preparation strategies apply universally.
Start with a Diagnostic Test
All four testing organisations offer free practice tests or sample questions on their official websites (ielts.org, pearsonpte.com, ets.org, duolingo.com). Take a practice test for any exam you are considering before paying the registration fee. Your diagnostic score will tell you how much preparation you need and whether the test format suits your strengths.
Build a Study Timeline
Most students need 4–12 weeks of dedicated preparation, depending on their starting level. If your diagnostic score is more than one band (or its equivalent) below your target, plan for at least 8–12 weeks. If you are close to your target, 4–6 weeks of focused practice may suffice.
Focus on Your Weakest Section
A low score in one section can drag down your overall result. Identify your weakest skill — whether it is writing, speaking, reading, or listening — and devote disproportionate study time to it. For IELTS and TOEFL, writing is often the most challenging section for Nepali students. For PTE, pronunciation and oral fluency require significant practice.
Use Official Materials First
Official practice materials from the testing organisations are the most accurate representation of what you will face on test day. Third-party materials can supplement your preparation, but they should not replace official resources.
Simulate Test Conditions
Practice under timed conditions in a quiet environment. If your test is computer-based, practice typing your essays rather than handwriting them. If you are taking Duolingo or TOEFL Home Edition, ensure your computer, webcam, and internet meet the technical requirements well before test day.
Score Sending, Retake Policies, and Other Logistics
A few additional logistical considerations can influence your decision.
- Free score reports: TOEFL iBT includes 4 free score reports (per ets.org). Both PTE Academic and Duolingo English Test offer unlimited free score reports to institutions. IELTS typically provides a limited number of free copies (check with British Council Nepal for current policy).
- Retake waiting period: IELTS allows you to retake the test as soon as you can book a new date. PTE Academic has no minimum waiting period between attempts (per pearsonpte.com). TOEFL iBT can be retaken after 3 days (per ets.org). Duolingo English Test can be retaken after 21 days or upon receiving results from your most recent attempt — up to 3 certified results within a 12-month period (per duolingo.com).
- TOEFL MyBest Scores: TOEFL iBT’s MyBest Scores feature automatically combines your highest section scores from all valid test dates within the past 2 years (per ets.org). Not all institutions accept MyBest Scores, so verify beforehand.
Key Takeaways
- No single “best” test exists. The right choice depends on your destination country, budget, timeline, and personal strengths.
- For the UK, IELTS for UKVI is essentially mandatory for student visa applications. Other tests may satisfy university admission but not the visa requirement.
- For Australia and New Zealand, both IELTS and PTE Academic are accepted for visa purposes, giving you a genuine choice between the two.
- For the USA and Canada, all four tests are broadly accepted for university admission. Budget-conscious students should consider the Duolingo English Test at USD 65 (per duolingo.com).
- PTE Academic is the fastest for results — 1–2 business days (per pearsonpte.com) — making it ideal for last-minute applications.
- Duolingo English Test is the most affordable at USD 65 (per duolingo.com), with the added advantages of home testing and unlimited free score reports.
- TOEFL iBT offers a Home Edition (per ets.org) and the MyBest Scores feature, which can help maximise your score across multiple attempts.
- Healthcare professionals should consider OET for clinical registration in the UK, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, Singapore, and Dubai.
- Always take a free practice test before committing to any exam. Your performance on a diagnostic test is the single best predictor of which format suits you.
- Check both university and visa requirements. A university may accept Duolingo for admission, but the country’s immigration authority may still require IELTS or PTE for the visa — plan for both.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which English proficiency test is cheapest in Nepal?
The Duolingo English Test is the most affordable option at USD 65 (approximately NPR 9,100) per duolingo.com. In comparison, TOEFL iBT costs USD 195 (~NPR 27,420) per ets.org, PTE Academic costs approximately USD 220 (NPR 28,000–33,000) per pearsonpte.com, and IELTS costs NPR 33,000–36,200 per British Council Nepal. The Duolingo English Test also saves on travel costs since it can be taken entirely from home.
Which test gives results fastest?
PTE Academic delivers results within 1–2 business days (per pearsonpte.com), making it the fastest among the four tests. Duolingo English Test results arrive within 48 hours (per duolingo.com). Computer-based IELTS results come in 3–5 days, while paper-based IELTS takes 13 days (per ielts.org). TOEFL iBT results take 4–8 days (per ets.org).
Is the Duolingo English Test accepted for UK visas?
No. UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) does not accept the Duolingo English Test for visa applications. For UK study visas, you need IELTS for UKVI or another approved Secure English Language Test (SELT). However, some UK universities do accept Duolingo for issuing conditional or unconditional admission offers — you would still need a UKVI-approved test for the visa itself.
What is the IELTS equivalent of a TOEFL score of 90?
A TOEFL iBT score of 90 roughly corresponds to an IELTS band of 6.5, a PTE Academic score of approximately 58, and a Duolingo English Test score of approximately 105–114. These are approximate concordances — individual institutions may set different equivalencies, so always check with your target university or programme directly.
Can I take PTE Academic or TOEFL from home in Nepal?
TOEFL iBT offers a Home Edition that can be taken from home with a stable internet connection and a computer equipped with a camera and microphone (per ets.org). The Duolingo English Test is also entirely home-based (per duolingo.com). PTE Academic, however, is currently available only at authorised test centres — it does not offer a home-based version. IELTS has introduced limited online testing in some locations; check with British Council Nepal for current availability.
Which English test should healthcare workers from Nepal take?
Healthcare professionals — including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists — planning to work in the UK, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, Singapore, or Dubai should consider the Occupational English Test (OET). OET uses healthcare-specific scenarios, making the test content directly relevant to clinical practice. It is accepted by medical councils, nursing boards, and immigration authorities in those countries. For general university admission (such as an MBBS or nursing degree abroad), IELTS or PTE Academic are typically required.
How long are English proficiency test scores valid?
All four major tests — IELTS, PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, and Duolingo English Test — have a score validity period of 2 years from the test date. After two years, you will need to retake the test if a valid score is required for a new application. Some immigration programmes or professional registrations may have shorter or longer validity requirements, so always confirm with the relevant authority.
Which test is easiest for Nepali students?
There is no universally “easiest” test — it depends entirely on your individual strengths. Students who are comfortable speaking face-to-face often prefer IELTS because of its live interview format. Students who type quickly and are comfortable with technology tend to perform well on PTE Academic. TOEFL iBT suits students strong in American English reading and listening. The Duolingo English Test has a shorter, adaptive format that many students find less stressful. The best approach is to take a free practice test for each exam you are considering and compare your performance across formats.
Do Australian universities accept the Duolingo English Test?
Acceptance of the Duolingo English Test at Australian universities varies by institution. Some Australian universities accept DET scores for admission purposes. However, the Australian Department of Home Affairs does not currently list DET as an accepted English test for student visa (subclass 500) applications. For both admission and visa purposes in Australia, IELTS and PTE Academic remain the safest choices.
Can I combine scores from different English tests?
No. Universities and immigration authorities require a single valid score from one test. You cannot combine, for example, your IELTS reading score with your PTE speaking score. However, some tests offer internal score optimisation: TOEFL iBT’s MyBest Scores feature combines your highest section scores from multiple TOEFL iBT test dates taken within the past 2 years (per ets.org). Not all institutions accept MyBest Scores, so verify before relying on this feature.
Disclaimer: Test fees, formats, and acceptance policies are subject to change. Always verify current information on the official websites of the respective testing organisations (ielts.org, pearsonpte.com, ets.org, duolingo.com) and with your target institution before making decisions. College Darpan is not affiliated with any testing organisation mentioned in this article.
