Ielts Score Equivalency Calculator
Convert between IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo, PTE, and CEFR English proficiency scores. Enter values for instant results with step-by-step formulas.
Reviewed for accuracy by Abdullah, Technical Content Specialist
Ielts Score Equivalency Calculator
Calculator
Adjust values & calculateEnter your values below. Every result is computed in your browser — no data is sent to any server.
Formula: Score Equivalency via Concordance Tables
Worked example — IELTS 7.0 = TOEFL 94 | PTE 65 | Duolingo 120 | CEFR B2+ | CLB 8
Formula
Score Equivalency via Concordance Tables
Conversions are based on statistical concordance studies published by ETS, Pearson, and official test organizations. Scores are mapped by finding the closest equivalent across standardized test scales.
Worked Examples
Example 1: IELTS 7.0 to Other Test Equivalents
Problem:A student scored IELTS 7.0 overall and needs to know equivalent scores for TOEFL, PTE, Duolingo, and CEFR for applications to universities in different countries.
Solution:Using standardized concordance tables: IELTS 7.0 = TOEFL iBT 94-101 IELTS 7.0 = PTE Academic 65-72 IELTS 7.0 = Duolingo English Test 120-129 IELTS 7.0 = CEFR Level B2+ IELTS 7.0 = CLB 8 (Canada) This score meets requirements for most graduate programs worldwide.
Result:IELTS 7.0 = TOEFL 94 | PTE 65 | Duolingo 120 | CEFR B2+ | CLB 8
Example 2: TOEFL 79 to IELTS Equivalent
Problem:An applicant has TOEFL iBT 79 and needs to know the IELTS equivalent for a UK student visa application requiring minimum IELTS 6.5.
Solution:Using concordance mapping: TOEFL 79 maps closest to IELTS 6.5 IELTS 6.5 = PTE Academic 58 IELTS 6.5 = Duolingo English Test 110 IELTS 6.5 = CEFR Level B2 IELTS 6.5 = CLB 7 This score meets the UK Tier 4 student visa minimum of IELTS 5.5 and the typical university minimum of 6.5.
Result:TOEFL 79 = IELTS 6.5 | PTE 58 | Duolingo 110 | CEFR B2 | CLB 7
Frequently Asked Questions
How accurate are score conversions between IELTS, TOEFL, and other English tests?
Score conversions between English proficiency tests are approximate because each test measures language skills differently. IELTS uses trained human examiners for speaking and writing, while TOEFL iBT is entirely computer-delivered including AI-scored speaking. PTE Academic is fully computer-scored using algorithms, and Duolingo uses adaptive testing with a much shorter format. Official concordance studies from ETS (TOEFL) and Pearson (PTE) provide statistical mappings based on research with test-takers who took multiple exams. These studies show that conversions are most reliable in the middle ranges (IELTS 5.5 to 7.5, TOEFL 46 to 102) and less precise at the extremes. Universities and immigration authorities publish their own accepted equivalencies which may differ slightly from statistical concordances. Always verify the specific conversion accepted by your target institution or immigration program.
Which English proficiency test should I take for university admissions?
The best test depends on your target country and institution. IELTS is the most widely accepted globally, recognized by over 11,000 organizations in 140 countries, and is preferred or required in the UK, Australia, and New Zealand. TOEFL iBT is traditionally favored in the United States and Canada, accepted by over 11,500 institutions, and its computer-based format appeals to test-takers comfortable with typing. PTE Academic has gained popularity due to fast results (typically 48 hours) and is widely accepted in Australia and New Zealand for immigration purposes. Duolingo English Test surged in popularity during the pandemic due to its affordability ($59 vs $250+ for others) and convenience of testing from home, though acceptance is still growing. Before choosing, verify that your target universities specifically accept your chosen test, as some programs only accept certain tests or have minimum score requirements that vary by test type.
What IELTS score do I need for Canadian permanent residency?
For Canadian permanent residency through Express Entry, the minimum language requirement depends on the specific program. The Federal Skilled Worker Program requires a minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) of 7 in all four skills, which corresponds to IELTS 6.0 in each band. However, scoring higher significantly increases your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points. A CLB 7 in all skills gives 4 points per skill (16 total), CLB 8 gives 5 points per skill (20 total), CLB 9 gives 6 points per skill (24 total), and CLB 10+ gives maximum language points. The difference between CLB 7 and CLB 9 can add 32 additional CRS points considering the first and second language combinations. Most successful applicants in competitive draws score CLB 9 or above. For the Canadian Experience Class, the minimum is CLB 7 for NOC 0 or A jobs and CLB 5 for NOC B jobs.
How does the CEFR framework relate to these test scores?
The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is a widely used international standard for describing language ability on a six-point scale from A1 (beginner) to C2 (mastery). Most English proficiency tests map their scores to CEFR levels to facilitate comparison. IELTS 4.0 to 4.5 aligns with A2, IELTS 5.0 to 5.5 with B1, IELTS 6.0 to 7.0 with B2, IELTS 7.5 to 8.0 with C1, and IELTS 8.5 to 9.0 with C2. European universities, employers, and visa programs typically specify requirements using CEFR levels rather than specific test scores. For example, many European master programs require B2 or C1 level. The CEFR mapping is not perfect because each test has different sub-skills emphasis and scoring methodologies. Cambridge English exams such as FCE, CAE, and CPE are directly designed around CEFR levels, making them the most precisely aligned tests in this framework.
Can I combine scores from different test sections across multiple attempts?
Score combining policies vary significantly between tests and receiving institutions. IELTS introduced MyBest Scores in select markets, but most institutions still require all four band scores from a single test sitting. TOEFL MyBest Scores combines your highest section scores from multiple test dates within the last two years, and many universities now accept these combined scores, though some top programs still require single-sitting scores. PTE Academic does not officially offer score combining, and each attempt is treated independently. Duolingo English Test does not support score combining either. For immigration purposes, Canada (IRCC) requires all scores from a single test sitting, as does Australia (Department of Home Affairs) and the UK (UKVI). Even where superscore policies exist, you should verify acceptance with your specific institution because departmental policies may differ from university-wide policies. Taking the same test multiple times is generally the safest strategy to achieve your target score across all sections.
References
Reviewed for accuracy by Abdullah, Technical Content Specialist · Editorial policy
Related Calculators
🧮Canada Crs Score Calculator
Calculate your Comprehensive Ranking System score for Canada Express Entry immigration.
🧮Gre Score Percentile Calculator
Convert GRE verbal and quantitative scores to percentile rankings.
🧮Australia Points Calculator
Calculate your points score for Australian skilled migration visas (subclass 189, 190, 491).
🧮Germany Opportunity Card Calculator
Calculate your eligibility score for the German Chancenkarte (Opportunity Card) visa.
🧮Uk Points Based Visa Calculator
Calculate your points for UK Skilled Worker visa from salary, qualification, and sponsorship.
🧮Us Visa Fee Calculator
Calculate total US visa fees for tourist (B1/B2), student (F1), work (H1B), and immigrant visas.
🧮Uk Visa Fee Calculator
Calculate total UK visa costs including application, IHS surcharge, and biometric fees.
🧮Canada Visa Fee Calculator
Calculate Canadian visa and permit fees for visitor, study, work, and PR applications.