English Proficiency Tests

English Proficiency Tests: Which One Is Right for You?

Most universities abroad ask for proof of your English. IELTS, TOEFL, PTE and Duolingo are the tests they accept most widely. Galvanize helps you understand your options — then prepare for the one you choose.

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Know your options

Four tests, one goal: proving your English

Universities accept several English proficiency tests. Here's a quick orientation on each so you can choose with confidence — then prepare with a plan.

IELTS

One of the most widely recognised English tests for study, work and migration — accepted across the UK, Australia, Canada and many other destinations. Assesses Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking.

Prepare for IELTS

TOEFL

TOEFL iBT

Widely preferred by universities in the United States. TOEFL iBT measures academic English across Reading, Listening, Speaking and Writing in a single test.

Prepare for TOEFL

PTE

PTE Academic

A fully computer-based test known for fast results, accepted by a growing list of universities in Australia, the UK, New Zealand and beyond.

Read the PTE guide

Duolingo

Duolingo English Test

An affordable, at-home online test accepted by a growing number of universities worldwide — convenient if you need results quickly.

Read the Duolingo guide

Still weighing them up? Read our side-by-side breakdown: TOEFL vs PTE vs Duolingo vs IELTS.

Prepare with Galvanize

Structured coaching for the test you choose

Focused prep — expert coaching, full-length practice tests and score-improvement plans — not generic English classes.

IELTS

IELTS Prep

Online IELTS coaching and practice built around the four sections, with mock tests and band-score tracking.

Explore IELTS Prep

TOEFL

TOEFL Prep

Online TOEFL coaching and practice with full-length simulations and section-by-section strategy.

Explore TOEFL Prep

PTE · coming soon

PTE Prep

PTE Academic coaching is on the way. In the meantime, get exam-ready with our PTE guides.

Read the PTE guide

Duolingo · coming soon

Duolingo Prep

Duolingo English Test coaching is on the way. In the meantime, get exam-ready with our Duolingo guides.

Read the Duolingo guide

Free tools & practice

Practice and check your readiness — free

Full-length practice tests and score tools to benchmark where you stand before you commit to a plan.

Free TOEFL Practice Test Full-length simulation IELTS Mock Test Real exam conditions TOEFL Score Calculator Estimate your iBT score IELTS Band Calculator Work out your band TOEFL → IELTS Converter Compare across tests

Why Galvanize

One place to choose your test and prepare for it

Guidance on the right test

We help you pick based on where you're applying and how you learn best.

Test-specific coaching

Focused IELTS and TOEFL programs led by experienced instructors, not generic English classes.

Free practice and tools

Full-length practice tests, mock tests and score calculators to track your readiness.

An official ETS partner

As an ETS partner, we bring TOEFL benefits and up-to-date test guidance.

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English proficiency tests: your questions

1. What is an English proficiency test?

A standardised test that measures your ability to read, write, speak and understand English. Universities and immigration authorities use it to confirm you can study or work in an English-speaking environment.

2. Which English proficiency test should I take?

It depends on where you're applying and which tests each institution accepts. IELTS and TOEFL are the most broadly accepted; PTE and Duolingo are accepted by a growing number of universities. Check your target universities' requirements, then prepare for the test they accept.

3. Which tests does Galvanize prepare you for?

Galvanize currently offers structured coaching for IELTS and TOEFL, with full-length practice tests and score-improvement plans. PTE and Duolingo prep are coming soon.

4. Are PTE and Duolingo accepted by universities?

Both are accepted by a growing list of universities worldwide, though acceptance varies by institution and country. See our guides on PTE accepting countries and Duolingo accepting countries, and always confirm with your target universities.

5. How long does it take to prepare?

It varies with your current level and target score. A structured plan with regular full-length practice is the fastest route — our coaching and free practice tests help you track your readiness along the way.