IELTS, CELPIP, PTE, TEF or TCF: which test to take
Which tests each country accepts and how long results stay valid.
Accepted tests by destination
- Canada (Express Entry): IELTS General Training, CELPIP-General, PTE Core (English); TEF Canada, TCF Canada (French). Valid 2 years.
- Australia: IELTS (General or Academic), PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, Cambridge C1 Advanced, OET and others. Valid 3 years for skilled visas.
- New Zealand: IELTS, PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, Cambridge and others. IELTS 6.5 overall for Skilled Migrant.
- UK: a Home Office approved Secure English Language Test (SELT) at B2 for Skilled Worker.
- Germany: Goethe, telc or ÖSD for German; IELTS, TOEFL or Cambridge for English.
Picking a test
- If you are applying to Canada only, CELPIP is computer-based and scored directly in CLB levels.
- If you might apply to Canada and Australia, IELTS General Training works for both.
- Book a test date that leaves time for one retake before your target submission date.
Tip
SpeedVisa converts your scores to CLB, Australia's competent/proficient/superior bands and CEFR automatically. Enter them in your profile.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Check the official source before you apply.