From IELTS Frustration to PTE Success: My Journey and Why You Should Consider PTE

1. Introduction:

   • After multiple frustrating attempts at IELTS, I switched to PTE Academic and achieved the scores I needed.

   • Sharing my experience to help others avoid the stress and expense of repeated IELTS attempts.

2. Background:

   • My Language Journey:

     • Native Spanish speaker from Venezuela.

     • Started learning English at 12, became fluent by 15.

     • Took TOEFL in 2007 and IELTS in 2013, both with success.

   • Visa Requirements:

     • Needed to retake IELTS in 2016 for Australian permanent residency but struggled with the Writing section.

3. IELTS Struggles:

   • 2016 Attempts:

     • First Attempt: L=8.5, R=8.5, W=6.5, S=8.5

     • Second Attempt: L=8.0, R=7.0, W=6.0, S=7.0

     • Third Attempt: L=7.5, R=7.5, W=6.5, S=7.5

   • Challenges:

     • Writing section consistently below 7.0 despite improving skills.

     • Stressful and expensive process with no feedback on remarking.

4. Switching to PTE Academic:

   • Why PTE?

     • Computer-based exam with faster results (1-5 days).

     • No human bias in scoring (fully automated).

   • PTE Format:

     • Speaking: Speak to a computer (no interviewer).

     • Writing: Typed responses (easier for those accustomed to typing).

     • Reading and Listening: Academic-level content.

   • My PTE Result:

     • L=86, R=90, W=88, S=81 (equivalent to IELTS 8.0+ in all bands).

5. Preparation Tips:

   • Online Mock Exams:

     • Took two mock exams to gauge readiness (scored 75 and 84).

     • Highly recommended to familiarize yourself with the format.

     • Link: PTE Practice

   • Speaking Section:

     • Practice speaking clearly and naturally.

     • Be prepared for background noise from other test-takers.

   • Writing Section:

     • Typing is faster and easier than handwriting.

     • Focus on spelling, as it can significantly impact your score.

6. Conspiracy Theories (and Frustrations):

   • IELTS Remarking:

     • No feedback provided, just a new score (or the same one).

     • Expensive ($200) and time-consuming (8 weeks).

   • Test Center Bias:

     • Suspicions that test centers may prioritize profit over fairness.

   • Accent and Computer Scoring:

     • PTE’s automated scoring may disadvantage certain accents.

7. Why Choose PTE Over IELTS?

   • Faster Results: Results in 1-5 days vs. 2 weeks for IELTS.

   • Computer-Based: No human bias in scoring.

   • Easier Writing Section: Typing is faster and more forgiving than handwriting.

   • Higher Scores: Many test-takers achieve higher scores in PTE compared to IELTS.

8. Conclusion:

   • If you’re struggling with IELTS, especially the Writing section, consider switching to PTE.

   • PTE is less stressful, faster, and more consistent in scoring.

   • Practice with mock exams and focus on your weak areas to achieve your desired score.

Update:

• For sample questions and mock exams, visit: PTE Practice

• Remember, accent and pronunciation play a significant role in PTE’s automated scoring, so practice speaking clearly.

Final Advice:

• Don’t give up! If IELTS isn’t working for you, PTE might be the solution.

• Good luck on your English exam journey!

Shared by Greg Ortega