Choosing Between Two Exams
Some decisions come up on almost every intro call. These pages set out the facts side by side, so the choice can be made on the student’s strengths and destinations rather than on hearsay.
- Six comparisons
- Facts from the awarding bodies
- No exam declared “better”
- In three languages
The comparisons
SAT vs ACT
Digital SAT and enhanced ACT side by side: sections, timing, scoring, adaptivity, calculators and optional Science, and how to decide which to take.
IB vs A Level
The IB Diploma and A Levels side by side: subjects, Higher and Standard Level, the core, grading out of 45 or A* to E, exam series and university offers.
AP vs IB
AP and the IB side by side: single exams scored 1 to 5 each May against a two-year diploma out of 45, how universities use each, and how to combine them.
TOEFL vs IELTS
TOEFL iBT and IELTS Academic side by side: sections, timing, the 1–6 and 0–9 scales, speaking format, delivery, results and validity, and how to choose.
IELTS vs PTE
IELTS Academic and PTE Academic side by side: structure, timing, the 0–9 and 10–90 scales, examiner or AI scoring, test centres, results and validity.
GMAT vs GRE
The GMAT and the GRE General Test side by side: sections, timing, scoring, adaptivity, section order and score reporting, and who each suits.
Frequently asked questions
Short, direct answers. If yours is not here, ask us.
Still undecided?
Book a free intro call and we will look at your profile against both options.