IELTS vs PTE vs TOEFL vs Duolingo — Which English Test is Best for Nepali Students?
Choosing the right English proficiency test is one of the first and most important decisions in your study abroad journey. All four major tests are now fully computer-based. Here is a complete, honest comparison to help you decide.
The four tests at a glance
Detailed comparison
| Feature | IELTS | PTE | TOEFL | Duolingo |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost in Nepal | NRs 36,200 | ~NRs 22–24K | ~NRs 28–30K | ~NRs 7,000 |
| Test duration | 2 hrs 45 min | 2 hrs | 2 hrs | 1 hr |
| Speaking examiner | Human | AI only | AI only | AI only |
| Result speed | 3–5 days | 2–5 days | 4–8 days | 1–2 days |
| Accepted for UK visa | Yes | Yes | Yes | Some only |
| Accepted for Australia visa | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| Accepted for Canada visa | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Best for USA | Partial | Partial | Preferred | Partial |
| Test centre required | Yes | Yes | Yes | No — take at home |
Which test should you choose?
Going to UK, Australia or Canada?
Choose IELTS or PTE. Both are fully accepted for university admission and visa applications. PTE is faster and slightly cheaper.
Going to the USA?
Choose TOEFL — it is the preferred test for most US universities. Some US universities also accept IELTS and Duolingo.
On a tight budget?
Choose Duolingo at approx. NRs 7,000 — the most affordable option. Take it from home. Check if your university accepts it before booking.
Need results urgently?
Choose Duolingo (results in 2 days) or PTE (2–5 days). Both are faster than IELTS and TOEFL.
Prefer a human speaking examiner?
Choose IELTS — it is the only test where a real human examiner assesses your speaking. Many students feel more comfortable with this format.
Applying to multiple countries?
Choose IELTS — it is the most universally accepted test worldwide and works for UK, Australia, Canada, NZ, USA and almost everywhere else.
Score equivalency guide
| Level | IELTS | PTE | TOEFL | Duolingo |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minimum (most universities) | 6.0 | 50 | 80 | 105 |
| Standard requirement | 6.5 | 58 | 90 | 115 |
| Top universities | 7.0 | 65 | 100 | 125 |
| Highly competitive programmes | 7.5+ | 73+ | 110+ | 135+ |
💡 Shama Abroad offers structured preparation classes for IELTS, PTE, TOEFL and Duolingo with experienced trainers, regular mock tests and personalized feedback. Contact us to enroll in the next batch.
Not sure which test to take?
Book a free consultation and our counselors will recommend the best test based on your target university, destination and timeline.
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