Now, if you’re dreaming of those fully funded scholarships from foreign universities, remember this: they’re watching your English skills like a hawk. That’s where your English test scores come in handy. Whether it’s the tried-and-true IELTS (owing to its high cost and difficulty level) or another IELTS alternative, make sure you’ve got your English language proficiency proof ready! 🌍📚🎓
If the term “IELTS” rings a bell then you’re on the right track to look for study abroad opportunities because almost every other scholarship opportunity requires their candidates for English proficiency. But hey, guess what? IELTS is not the only game in town because it is expensive, and difficult exam. But you must not worry because here i am going to give you a list of IELTS alternative exams which those scholarships accept. So lets dive into this article, and you’ll find more than just the typical IELTS route to apply for scholarships abroad 🌏✈️.
For all our international pals hailing from non-English speaking corners of the world, there’s a buffet of other English tests you can take to shoot your shot at those fully funded scholarships in 2024.
Your Options for IELTS Alternative English Exams in 2024
Want to prove your English skills for that overseas academic adventure? Look no further! Here’s a list of IELTS alternative English tests you can take in 2024 to apply for scholarships abroad:
1# TOEFL Test
Have you ever heard of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)? That’s the brainchild of the Educational Testing Service (ETS). Opting for TOEFL over IELTS can be beneficial due to its comparatively lower cost and perceived easier difficulty level, making it a cost-effective and user-friendly choice for English proficiency assessment.
TOEFL is also recognized as an entry requirement in over 130 countries, including US, UK, Europe, Canada, New Zealand, and Australia. TOEFL test takers can opt for either the paper-based test (PBT) or the internet-based test (IBT). The TOEFL is available more than 50 times annually and is widely accepted in the US and Canada whereas TOEFL is also a recognized criterion for immigration in countries like Singapore, Canada, and Germany.
#2 Duolingo English Test
Duolingo offers a more flexible and convenient English language proficiency testing process, allowing candidates to take the exam from the comfort of their homes. Additionally, its affordability compared to IELTS makes it a cost-effective choice for many
So therefore Duolingo English test is also an alternative to IELTS exam which is now accepted in UK Universities and colleges. If you want to take Duolingo then its results are typically available within 48 hours, covering assessments in speaking, listening, writing, and reading over a 45-minute duration, followed by a 10-minute video interview.
Duolongo Exam fee: The online duolingo test is accessible anytime at a fee of $49.
3# Pearson Language Tests – PTE
If you’re aiming to take an English proficiency test promptly and send your scores to universities, Pearson’s (PTE) might be preferable due to its instant booking and results delivery within 2 days.
Is PTE less difficult than IELTS?
Both the PTE and IELTS will evaluate your essential English language skills: Listening, Writing, Speaking, and Reading. It’s not accurate to label one as simpler than the other, as they both have unique formats, patterns, and question types but if you want instant test reservation with fast test results then PTE has a clear edge over IELTS.
#4 Password English language test
The Password English Test is an online test of English language proficiency, offering the convenience of remote testing and potentially faster results turnaround. While this Password plus english test might be more affordable and convenient for some, its global recognition may not be as extensive as other tests like IELTS. Choosing between Password and IELTS should be based on individual needs and the specific requirements of the target institutions or organizations and its cost is around £110+VAT.
5# Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE)
The Cambridge English Advanced (CAE) test is accepted by over 9,000 institutions and is conducted in approximately 2,800 exam centers monthly. CAE consists of four test sections speaking, writing, listening, and reading and unlike other English language exams, Cambridge’s CAE results are valid for a lifetime.
So that means this C1 Advanced Exam (also known as CAE) is tailored for individuals aiming to showcase their high-level English proficiency. In contrast to the IELTS certificate which expires in two years, the C1 Advanced certificate holds lifelong validity.
#6 ACT English language Test
The ACT, overseen by its namesake nonprofit organization, is a standardized entrance exam for U.S. college admissions that assesses four primary academic domains: English, mathematics, reading, and scientific reasoning, with an additional optional writing segment.
ACT vs. SAT: While both the ACT and SAT serve as benchmarks for college admissions and scholarship awards, neither is categorically more difficult than the other. Most Universities and colleges in US don’t have a preference between accepting SAT or ACT, and students might find themselves naturally inclined towards one over the other.
