🌐English Language Proficiency Hub

Which English Test Is Right for You?

Compare IELTS, TOEFL, PTE Academic, CELPIP, Cambridge C1/C2, and Duolingo DET. Find the best English proficiency exam for study, work, or immigration - then prepare with AI-powered mock tests.

📝3.5M+IELTS tests taken annually
🏢11,000+Organisations accept IELTS worldwide
🍁600+Test centres for CELPIP worldwide
🌍140+Countries accept IELTS

All Major English Proficiency Tests (2026)

Langogh actively supports IELTS and CELPIP preparation with AI-powered mock tests. Other exams are coming soon.

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IELTS

International English Language Testing System

The world's most popular English proficiency test. Accepted by 11,000+ organisations in 140+ countries for study, work, and immigration.

Paper-basedComputer-delivered

Score

Band 0–9

Validity

2 years

Cost (approx.)

$180–$300

Results: 1–5 days (computer)· 13 days (paper)
Start Preparing
Coming Soon
📚

TOEFL iBT

Test of English as a Foreign Language

The go-to exam for US and Canadian university admissions. Fully internet-based with Home Edition available. Adaptive testing from Jan 2026.

Computer-based onlyHome Edition available

Score

0–120 points

Validity

2 years

Cost (approx.)

$185–$310

Results: 4–8 days (computer)
Coming Soon
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PTE Academic

Pearson Test of English Academic

AI-scored exam with results in as little as 24–48 hours. Accepted for Australia & NZ visas and 3,000+ universities worldwide.

Computer-based only

Score

10–90 points

Validity

No expiry

Cost (approx.)

$150–$230

Results: 24–48 hours (computer)
Live on Langogh
🍁

CELPIP

Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program

Canada's home-grown English proficiency test. Required for permanent residency and citizenship via IRCC. Tests everyday Canadian English.

Computer-based only

Score

M–12 per skill

Validity

2 years

Cost (approx.)

~$280 CAD

Results: 3–5 days (computer)
Start Preparing
Coming Soon
🏛️

Cambridge C1 / C2

Cambridge English Qualifications

Lifetime-valid qualifications proving advanced English mastery at C1 (Advanced) or C2 (Proficiency) level. Highly respected by employers globally.

Paper-basedComputer-based

Score

Grade A/B/C

Validity

Lifetime

Cost (approx.)

$200–$280

Results: ~2 weeks (computer)· 4–6 weeks (paper)
Coming Soon
🦜

Duolingo English Test

Duolingo English Test (DET)

Take the test at home in 1 hour for just $70. AI-adaptive, accepted by 6,000+ institutions. Results in 48 hours. Fastest and most affordable option.

Online only (at home)

Score

10–160 points

Validity

2 years

Cost (approx.)

$70 USD

Results: ~48 hours (computer)

Computer-Based vs Paper-Based English Tests

Choosing the delivery format affects your results turnaround by days - sometimes weeks

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Computer-Based Tests

  • ✓Faster results - PTE in 24–48 hrs, IELTS computer in 1–5 days, CELPIP in 2–4 days
  • ✓AI scoring - PTE and DET use automated marking for objective, consistent results
  • ✓More test dates - available more frequently throughout the year
  • ✓Flexible speaking - IELTS computer still uses face-to-face or recorded speaking
  • –Requires comfort with typing and on-screen reading

Exams with computer option:

IELTS (CD)TOEFL iBTPTE AcademicCELPIPCambridge (digital)Duolingo DET
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Paper-Based Tests

  • ✓Familiar format - writing by hand can feel more natural for some test-takers
  • ✓Face-to-face speaking - IELTS paper includes live examiner interaction
  • ✓No typing required - ideal for those less comfortable with computers
  • –Slower results - IELTS paper: 13 days; Cambridge paper: 4–6 weeks
  • –Fewer test dates available per year

Exams with paper option:

IELTS (P&P)TOEFL Paper EditionCambridge (paper)

English Exam Comparison Table 2026

Side-by-side comparison including verified results times for computer vs paper formats

ExamBest ForFormatResults (Computer)Results (Paper)Avg. Cost
IELTSStudy, Work, ImmigrationPaper + Computer1–5 days13 days$180–$300
TOEFL iBTStudy (US/Canada)Computer only4–8 days-$185–$310
PTE AcademicStudy, Australia/NZ VisaComputer only24–48 hours-$150–$230
CELPIPCanada PR & CitizenshipComputer only3–5 days-~$280 CAD
Cambridge C1/C2Study, EmploymentPaper + Computer~2 weeks4–6 weeks$200–$280
Duolingo DETStudy (budget option)Online at home~48 hours-$70 USD

Data verified from official exam bodies. Costs vary by country and test centre. Last updated 2025.

IELTS Band Score Reference

The 9-band scale used by IELTS - the global standard

9
Expert

Full operational command - native-level fluency

8
Very Good

Fully operational command with occasional inaccuracies

7
Good

Operational command; some inaccuracies in complex situations

6
Competent

Generally effective command despite inaccuracies

5
Modest

Partial command; copes with overall meaning

4
Limited

Basic competence in familiar situations only

CELPIP CLB Score Reference

The 1–12 scale mapped to Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB)

10–12
Advanced

Highly functional to advanced proficiency

9
Initial Advanced

Target score for maximum Express Entry CRS points

8
Fluent Int.

Fluent intermediate; command of complex situations

7
Adequate Int.

Minimum for many PR categories (CLB 7)

6
Developing Int.

Developing intermediate proficiency

4–5
Basic

Initial to fluent basic proficiency

Note: Score requirements vary by purpose. Most universities demand IELTS Band 6.5+ or CELPIP 7+. Canada Express Entry maximum points (CLB 9) require IELTS 8,7,7,7 or CELPIP 9+ in all skills.

Which English Test Should You Take?

Match your goal to the right exam to avoid wasting time and money

Study in UK / Australia / Canada / NZ

✓ IELTS Academic

Also accepted: TOEFL iBT, PTE

Study in the USA

✓ TOEFL iBT

Also accepted: IELTS Academic, DET

Canada Permanent Residence (IRCC)

✓ CELPIP-General or IELTS General

Australia / NZ Skilled Worker Visa

✓ IELTS General or PTE Academic

Also accepted: TOEFL

UK Skilled Worker / Student Visa

✓ IELTS UKVI

Also accepted: PTE for UKVI

Employment / Career Proof

✓ Cambridge C1 Advanced / C2

Also accepted: IELTS, TOEFL

Fast results, tight deadline

✓ PTE Academic (24–48 hrs)

Also accepted: CELPIP, DET

Low budget (study abroad)

✓ Duolingo English Test ($70)

Also accepted: IELTS, TOEFL

Why Mock Tests Are Critical for Your Exam Score

Research from major testing bodies and multiple independent studies consistently proves that timed full mock tests are the single highest-impact preparation activity for exam success.

+0.5–1.0

Band score improvement

Candidates completing 4+ full mock tests score this much higher on average (Cambridge Assessment English)

34%

Faster improvement rate

Students using AI-powered mock tests improved their score 34% faster than with traditional practice materials

23.4%

Score variance from mocks

A 2021 academic study found mock test frequency explains 23.4% of the variance in final IELTS scores

⏱️

Master Time Management

Reading sections give you limited time for many questions. Without practice under real pressure, most candidates run out of time in the final sections. Mock tests train your internal clock.

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Identify Your Weak Sections

You may score highly in Listening but struggle in Writing. Mock tests reveal exactly which skill and question type is pulling down your overall score.

🧠

Reduce Exam Anxiety

Test anxiety is a major cause of underperformance. Repeated full-length mock tests make the exam environment familiar, reducing the stress response on test day.

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Track Score Progression

Regular mock tests with AI scoring let you see your score improve week by week, keeping you motivated and confirming whether your current strategy is working.

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AI Feedback on Writing & Speaking

Langogh's AI analyses your IELTS essays or CELPIP responses against real descriptors - giving detailed feedback and CLB estimates within seconds.

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Familiarise with All Question Types

Standardised tests have 10+ question types across Reading and Listening. Mock tests expose you to all of them so you never encounter surprises on exam day.

Free IELTS Practice TestFree CELPIP Practice Test

Complete Guide to English Language Proficiency Tests

IELTS: Computer-Delivered vs Paper-Based

IELTS is available in two delivery formats: Paper-based IELTS (results in 13 days) and Computer-Delivered IELTS (CD-IELTS) (results in 1–5 days). Both formats are identical in content, scoring, and difficulty - the only difference is the medium. If you need your scores quickly, CD-IELTS is the better choice. Both Academic and General Training modules are available in both formats. The IELTS Speaking test, regardless of format, is always conducted face-to-face with a trained examiner.

IELTS vs TOEFL iBT: Key Differences for 2026

The most common question among test-takers is IELTS or TOEFL? IELTS uses a 9-band score and includes a face-to-face speaking test, while TOEFL iBT uses a 0–120 point scale and records your speaking via microphone. Both are accepted by most universities globally, but IELTS is dominant in the UK, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand, whereas TOEFL is more commonly preferred by US institutions. In 2026, TOEFL iBT is implementing adaptive testing for Reading and Listening, where question difficulty adjusts based on your performance.

CELPIP for Canada Immigration: What You Need to Know

CELPIP (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program) is one of only two English tests accepted by IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) for permanent residency and citizenship applications - the other being IELTS General Training. CELPIP is fully computer-based, takes approximately 3 hours, and delivers results within 2–4 business days. Unlike IELTS, CELPIP tests everyday Canadian English situations rather than academic scenarios. If you are applying through Express Entry, a minimum CELPIP score of 6 in each skill area is typically required for a CLB 7 equivalency.

PTE Academic: The Fastest English Test Results

PTE Academic by Pearson is the fastest major English proficiency test, with results delivered in as little as 24–48 hours - compared to 13 days for paper-based IELTS and 4–8 days for TOEFL iBT. It is fully computer-based and AI-scored, which means completely objective marking with no human-examiner variation. PTE is approved for Australian and New Zealand student and skilled worker visas and is accepted by 3,000+ universities worldwide. Its 10–90 scoring scale is straightforward, and uniquely, PTE Academic scores do not expire.

Duolingo English Test: The Budget-Friendly Alternative

The Duolingo English Test (DET) at $70 USD is a fraction of the cost of IELTS or TOEFL. It is taken entirely online at home in approximately 1 hour, with results within 48 hours. The test is adaptive - question difficulty adjusts in real time based on your answers. Over 6,000 institutions worldwide now accept DET scores, including many top universities. If you have a tight budget or urgent deadline, DET is worth considering, but verify acceptance with your specific institution before registering.

Ready to Start? Choose Your Exam

AI-powered IELTS and CELPIP mock tests with personalised scoring and instant feedback.

IELTS Mock TestCELPIP Mock Test

Frequently Asked Questions — English Proficiency Tests

Answers to the most common questions about IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, CELPIP and other English exams

What is the best English proficiency test for studying abroad?
The best English test depends on your destination. For the UK, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand, IELTS Academic is the most widely accepted. For the US, TOEFL iBT is often preferred, though most US universities also accept IELTS. PTE Academic is an excellent alternative for Australia and New Zealand. Always check directly with your university for their specific requirements.
Is IELTS computer-delivered the same as paper-based?
Yes — Computer-Delivered IELTS (CD-IELTS) and Paper-Based IELTS are identical in content, scoring, and difficulty. The key difference is the medium and results time. Paper-based IELTS results take 13 days, while computer-delivered IELTS results are available in 1–5 days. The Speaking test is face-to-face with an examiner in both formats. Both are accepted by all IELTS partner institutions worldwide.
Which English exam gives results the fastest?
PTE Academic is the fastest major English proficiency test, delivering results within 24–48 hours. CELPIP results take 2–4 business days, and Computer-Delivered IELTS results take 1–5 days. The Duolingo English Test also returns results within ~48 hours. In contrast, paper-based IELTS takes 13 days and Cambridge paper-based qualifications take 4–6 weeks.
What is CELPIP and who needs to take it?
CELPIP (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program) is a fully computer-based English test accepted by IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) for permanent residency and citizenship applications. It is one of only two approved tests for Canada immigration — the other being IELTS General Training. CELPIP tests everyday Canadian English situations and delivers results within 2–4 business days. It costs approximately $280 CAD.
How much does IELTS cost compared to other English tests?
IELTS costs approximately $180–$300 USD depending on the country and test centre. TOEFL iBT costs $185–$310, PTE Academic $150–$230, and CELPIP ~$280 CAD (~$205 USD). Cambridge C1/C2 costs $200–$280. The most affordable option is the Duolingo English Test at $70 USD, though it is not accepted by all institutions. Check your local test centre for exact fees.
Can I take English proficiency tests from home?
Yes, several English tests offer at-home options. TOEFL iBT offers a Home Edition that can be taken at home with online proctoring. The Duolingo English Test is specifically designed to be taken at home via your computer and camera. PTE Academic and CELPIP are available at test centres only. IELTS is currently available at test centres only for both paper and computer-delivered formats.
Why are IELTS mock tests important for getting a high band score?
Research from Cambridge Assessment English shows that candidates who complete at least four full mock tests score an average of 0.5 to 1.0 bands higher than those who only do isolated practice. Mock tests improve score in four key ways: they build time management skills under exam conditions, reveal specific weak question types, reduce test-day anxiety through familiarity, and help you track score progression week by week. AI-powered mock tests like those on Langogh also provide instant, detailed feedback on Writing and Speaking.
Is IELTS or PTE easier?
There is no universally 'easier' exam — it depends on your individual strengths. PTE Academic is fully AI-scored, which means completely objective marking with no examiner variation, and the speaking section requires speaking into a microphone rather than with a person. Some test-takers find PTE's integrated question types more challenging, while others prefer it to IELTS's face-to-face speaking examiner. Both tests assess the same four skills (Reading, Listening, Writing, Speaking) at similar difficulty levels.
How long is my English test score valid?
IELTS, TOEFL, CELPIP, and the Duolingo English Test are all valid for 2 years from the test date. PTE Academic scores do not expire — they remain valid indefinitely, which is a unique advantage for long-term visa or study planning. Cambridge C1 Advanced and C2 Proficiency qualifications are lifetime-valid and never expire, making them a permanent proof of English ability for employment and professional registration.
What English test score do I need for Canada permanent residence?
For Canada Express Entry permanent residence, IRCC accepts IELTS General Training and CELPIP-General. A minimum score equivalent to CLB 7 is typically required in each skill area, which corresponds to IELTS Band 6.0 in each section (Reading, Listening, Writing, Speaking) or CELPIP score of 7 in each component. Higher scores in IELTS (e.g., 8.0 or above) earn more Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points, increasing your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA).