How Do You Choose the Right English Test for Your Study Abroad Plans?
- Media Team
- Dec 19, 2025
- 3 min read
Introduction
As global universities strengthen admission criteria and visa authorities refine language requirements, English language proficiency has become a critical factor for students planning to study abroad in 2026. A recognised English test score is essential not only for university admissions, but also for scholarships and student visa approvals.
This blog explains the major English language proficiency tests accepted worldwide for study abroad in 2026, including IELTS, PTE, TOEFL, Duolingo, and University In-House English Tests. Understanding the purpose, acceptance, cost, and suitability of each test will help you choose the right option based on your academic goals, destination country, budget, and timeline.
1. IELTS Academic (2026)
Acceptance
United Kingdom, Canada (including SDS), Australia, Ireland, New Zealand
Required for UK Visas & Immigration (UKVI) student visa applications
Accepted by over 11,000 universities worldwide
Cost (2026)
Approximately £155–£165 / ₹18,000
Results
Computer-based: 3–5 days
Paper-based: Up to 13 days
Best Suited For
Students applying to the UK and Canada
Applicants requiring UK Visas & Immigration (UKVI) compliant results
2. PTE Academic (2026)
Acceptance
United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland
Accepted for Canada SDS (from 2024 onwards)
Widely recognised across Europe and the Middle East
Cost (2026)
Approximately £150–£160 / ₹16,000–18,000
Results
Typically, within 24–48 hours
Best Suited For
Students who require fast results
Applicants who prefer computer-based testing
Candidates who find IELTS writing more challenging
3. TOEFL iBT (2026)
Acceptance
Accepted by over 12,000 institutions worldwide
Preferred by universities in the United States
Recognised in Canada, the UK, Europe, and Asia
Cost (2026)
Approximately $200 / ₹17,500–19,000
Results
4–8 days
Best Suited For
Students targeting US universities
Learners who are comfortable with academic reading and listening formats
4. Duolingo English Test (DET) — 2026
Acceptance
Accepted by 4,500+ universities globally
Widely recognised in the US, Canada (non-SDS), Europe, and Ireland
Not valid for UK or Canada visa applications.
Cost
Approximately $59 / ₹6,000
Results
Within 48 hours
Best Suited For
Students seeking quicker admission decisions
Budget-conscious applicants
Applicants applying close to university deadlines
5. University In-House English Tests (Free or Low-Cost)
Acceptance
Valid only for the university offering the test
Commonly accepted for pathway, foundation, and selected undergraduate or postgraduate programmes
Cost
Free or up to £30 / ₹0–3,000
Results
1–7 days
Best Suited For
Students with budget constraints
Applicants needing fast conditional or unconditional offers
Students applying through the pathway or diploma routes
Choosing the Right English Language Test in 2026
Selecting the correct English language proficiency test can significantly impact your university admission and visa outcome. Each test differs in acceptance, format, processing time, and cost. It is important to choose an examination that aligns with:
Your destination country
University requirements
Visa regulations
Budget and preparation timeline
How Envertiz Study Abroad Supports You Through Envertiz Academy
Envertiz Study Abroad, through Envertiz Academy, provides end-to-end guidance to help students confidently meet English language requirements for international education. From expert training and flexible learning options to exam registration and test selection guidance, students receive structured support at every stage of their study abroad journey.
Whether you are preparing for IELTS, PTE, TOEFL, Duolingo, or a university in-house English test, Envertiz Academy ensures you are well prepared, informed, and aligned with both university and visa expectations.
Start your study abroad journey with confidence with Envertiz Study Abroad.