How English Exam Score Conversion Works

There is no single official conversion formula between IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, and Duolingo. The scores are on entirely different scales and the tests measure proficiency through different methods. What exists instead are published equivalence tables compiled from research comparing test-taker populations who have sat multiple exams.

This converter uses the CEFR framework (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) as the anchor. CEFR has six levels: A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, and C2. Almost every major English proficiency exam maps to this scale. By mapping your score to a CEFR level first, you can then see what other exams produce scores at that same level.

The Master Conversion Table

All equivalences shown here are based on published comparison research from ETS, British Council, IDP, Pearson, and Duolingo. Ranges rather than single points are shown because the mapping is not exact.

IELTS to TOEFL: What the Numbers Actually Mean

IELTS runs on a 1 to 9 band scale with 0.5 increments. TOEFL iBT runs 0 to 120 in whole numbers. The scales are not proportional, so a linear formula does not work. The equivalences are based on population comparisons: test-takers who achieved the same proficiency level tended to cluster in these score ranges across both tests.

PTE Academic Compared to IELTS and TOEFL

PTE Academic is fully computer-scored, including the Speaking section. Scores run from 10 to 90. Results arrive within 48 hours, faster than IELTS (3 to 13 days) or TOEFL (4 to 8 days). The test is accepted by most UK, Australian, Canadian, and New Zealand universities, and for Australian and UK visa applications.

PTE scores tend to be slightly more variable from attempt to attempt compared to IELTS, which has a human-judged Speaking section. Students who are more comfortable with structured, timed computer interaction often prefer PTE. Students who perform better in conversation tend to prefer IELTS or TOEFL.

Duolingo English Test: Accepted More Widely Now

The Duolingo English Test (DET) scores run from 10 to 160. It costs significantly less than IELTS or TOEFL and can be taken from home in about an hour. Acceptance has expanded rapidly since 2020. Over 5,000 institutions now accept it, including many in the USA, Canada, and the UK. However, some universities that accept TOEFL and IELTS still do not accept Duolingo, particularly in Australia and for certain UK visa routes.

A Duolingo score of 120 is broadly equivalent to IELTS 7.0 or TOEFL iBT 94 to 101. A score of 105 to 115 corresponds roughly to IELTS 6.5 and TOEFL 79 to 93. These are approximate; check directly with your institution.

Which Exam Should You Take?

Take IELTS if:

You are applying to UK, Australian, New Zealand, or Irish universities. IELTS is the most widely accepted exam in these markets. It is also required for Australian, UK, and some Canadian immigration applications. If you prefer a human-scored Speaking section and can wait 3 to 13 days for results, IELTS is the most universally trusted option.

Take TOEFL if:

You are applying to US universities or programs that specifically list TOEFL as their preferred exam. TOEFL is built by ETS and is deeply embedded in US university admissions processes. The integrated speaking and writing tasks also better reflect academic English skills that US programs test for.

Take PTE if:

You need fast results (48 hours), prefer fully computerized testing, or want flexibility on test dates. PTE is also accepted for Australian and UK visa applications, making it a convenient option if you are applying to both a university and a visa program simultaneously.

Take Duolingo if:

Cost and convenience matter most. The DET is the cheapest major English proficiency test and can be done from home. It is suitable for US university applications in particular, where acceptance is now very broad. Not ideal if your target institutions include Australian universities or specific UK visa routes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there an official IELTS to TOEFL conversion?

Not officially. ETS and the British Council have published comparison research, and IDP has published rough equivalence guidance, but none of the testing bodies have released a binding conversion formula. The equivalences in this converter are based on the most widely cited published research, but they are approximate ranges, not precise conversions.

What CEFR level do I need for a UK student visa?

For a UK Student visa (Tier 4), most degree-level programs require B2 (IELTS 5.5 to 6.5 depending on the institution). Some postgraduate programs require C1 (IELTS 7.0). The visa itself requires a UKVI-approved Secure English Language Test (SELT), which means IELTS UKVI Academic, not all exam versions qualify for visa purposes.

Can I use a CEFR certificate instead of IELTS?

Some universities in the UK and Europe accept Cambridge English qualifications (which are reported using CEFR levels) as direct evidence of proficiency. These include the B2 First (FCE), C1 Advanced (CAE), and C2 Proficiency (CPE). However, most universities in the USA, Canada, and Australia specifically require IELTS or TOEFL scores, not CEFR certificates.

Is PTE easier than IELTS?

Neither is objectively easier. PTE is fully computer-marked, which removes human variability in the Speaking score and can benefit students who are consistent but not conversational. IELTS Speaking is marked by a trained human examiner, which some students find more natural. Difficulty depends entirely on your strengths and how you prepare.

How often can I retake these exams?

IELTS: no official limit, available most days at test centers globally. TOEFL iBT: can retake every 3 days, up to 5 times in a 12-month period. PTE Academic: can be taken as often as desired with no mandatory gap. Duolingo: can retake after a 21-day waiting period if you want scores to be accepted by institutions with a one-attempt policy.