English Test Score Converter

English Test Score Converter

Convert your English proficiency scores between IELTS, TOEFL iBT, Duolingo, PTE Academic, and Cambridge English tests.

Score Converter

IELTS Section Score Converter

Convert individual IELTS section scores (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking) to other tests.

Score Conversion Reference Table

IELTS TOEFL iBT Duolingo PTE Academic Cambridge
9.0 118-120 160 89-90 200+
8.5 115-117 155 83-88 191-199
8.0 110-114 145-150 79-82 185-190
7.5 102-109 135-140 73-78 176-184
7.0 94-101 125-130 65-72 169-175
6.5 79-93 115-120 58-64 162-168
6.0 60-78 105-110 50-57 154-161
5.5 46-59 95-100 43-49 140-153
5.0 35-45 85-90 36-42 120-139
4.5 32-34 75-80 30-35 100-119
4.0 ≤31 ≤70 ≤29 <100

* Conversions are approximate and based on official concordance studies. Individual universities may have specific requirements.

Typical University Requirements

Top Universities (Ivy League, Oxbridge)
IELTS: 7.5-8.0
TOEFL: 105-110
Duolingo: 135-145
Highly Competitive Programs
IELTS: 7.0-7.5
TOEFL: 100-105
Duolingo: 125-135
Most Graduate Programs
IELTS: 6.5-7.0
TOEFL: 90-100
Duolingo: 115-125
Most Undergraduate Programs
IELTS: 6.0-6.5
TOEFL: 80-90
Duolingo: 105-115
Foundation/Pathway Programs
IELTS: 5.0-5.5
TOEFL: 60-70
Duolingo: 90-100

About Each Test

IELTS

  • Scale: 0-9 (0.5 increments)
  • Duration: 2h 45min
  • Format: Paper or computer
  • Validity: 2 years
  • Cost: ~$245 USD

TOEFL iBT

  • Scale: 0-120
  • Duration: ~2 hours
  • Format: Computer-based
  • Validity: 2 years
  • Cost: ~$200-300 USD

Duolingo English Test

  • Scale: 10-160
  • Duration: ~1 hour
  • Format: Online, at home
  • Validity: 2 years
  • Cost: $65 USD

PTE Academic

  • Scale: 10-90
  • Duration: ~2 hours
  • Format: Computer-based
  • Validity: 2 years
  • Cost: ~$200-250 USD

Cambridge English

  • Scale: 80-230
  • Duration: Varies by level
  • Format: Paper or computer
  • Validity: Lifetime
  • Cost: ~$200-300 USD

Which Test to Take?

  • UK/Australia: IELTS preferred
  • USA: TOEFL widely accepted
  • Budget option: Duolingo
  • Quick results: PTE (1-5 days)
  • No expiry: Cambridge

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these conversions official?

These conversions are based on official concordance studies published by ETS (TOEFL), British Council (IELTS), and other test providers. However, universities may have their own specific requirements, so always check with your target institution.

Which English test is easiest?

Difficulty is subjective and depends on your strengths. IELTS may suit those comfortable with face-to-face speaking tests. TOEFL and PTE are fully computer-based. Duolingo is shorter and can be taken at home. Consider taking practice tests for each to find your best fit.

Do all universities accept Duolingo?

Duolingo acceptance has grown significantly since 2020. Over 5,000 institutions worldwide now accept it, including many top US universities. However, some traditional UK universities and Australian institutions may still prefer IELTS. Always verify with your target school.

How long are test scores valid?

Most English proficiency test scores are valid for 2 years from the test date. The exception is Cambridge English certifications, which don't expire. Plan your test timing so scores remain valid throughout your application and enrollment period.

Can I combine scores from different tests?

Generally, no. Universities require all section scores to come from a single test sitting. Some tests like TOEFL offer "MyBest Scores" that combine your best section scores from multiple test dates, but acceptance varies by institution.

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