International English Language Certificates: Which One Is Right for You?

If you’re planning to study abroad, work in an international company, or apply for immigration, an internationally recognized English certificate is essential. The most widely accepted exams include IELTS, TOEFL, TOEIC, Duolingo English Test, and PTE Academic — each designed for different purposes and evaluation formats.

IELTS remains one of the most trusted global exams. It offers Academic and General modules and evaluates all four skills with a 0–9 scoring system. Many European and Asian universities list IELTS as their primary language requirement.

TOEFL iBT is especially popular among universities in the United States, Canada, and institutions following the American education model. The exam focuses on academic English, scored from 0 to 120, and is fully internet-based.

TOEIC measures language skills used in the workplace and business communication. Companies in South Korea, Japan, and many international corporations often require TOEIC results during recruitment. Scores range from 10 to 990.

If you’re looking for a fast and budget-friendly option, the Duolingo English Test is ideal. It can be taken from home, lasts about one hour, and results are published within 48 hours. Thousands of universities now accept Duolingo as an official alternative to IELTS or TOEFL.

PTE Academic is a modern, computer-based exam widely accepted in the UK, Australia, and numerous other countries. Results are typically issued within 1–3 days, and AI-driven scoring ensures transparency and accuracy.

Which exam should you choose?
For academic programs, IELTS or TOEFL are the safest choices. For employment, TOEIC is more suitable. If you need a quick, affordable test — Duolingo works best. For UK visas and admissions, PTE offers the most convenience.

Still unsure? World.uz experts can help you select the exam that perfectly aligns with your goals and study plans.