IELTS Score Equivalency: CEFR, TOEFL, PTE, Duolingo & Cambridge — Official Conversion Tables (2026)
Wondering how your IELTS band score compares to TOEFL, PTE, CEFR, Duolingo, Cambridge, or CLB? This authoritative IELTS score equivalency guide maps official score conversions across six globally recognized English proficiency tests — helping you understand your true English level for university admission, immigration, or professional registration.
While no cross-test conversion is exact, this IELTS equivalency chart uses only **official concordance data** from ETS (TOEFL), Pearson (PTE), Cambridge Assessment English, Duolingo, and Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) — ensuring maximum accuracy and reliability for your IELTS preparation and goal planning.
Use the **IELTS score conversion table** below to find your equivalent scores across all major testing systems. Whether you need IELTS 6.5 equivalent to TOEFL, IELTS 7.0 equivalent to PTE, or CEFR B2 equivalent to IELTS score, this guide covers the most searched conversions worldwide.
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Quick IELTS Score Conversions (Most Searched)
The most frequently searched IELTS equivalencies at a glance — including reverse lookups from TOEFL, PTE, Duolingo & CEFR:
- IELTS 6.5 (CEFR B2)
- = TOEFL 79-93 | PTE 58-64 | Duolingo 110-119 | Cambridge CAE 176-184 — the standard for most universities worldwide
- IELTS 7.0 (CEFR C1)
- = TOEFL 94-101 | PTE 65-72 | Duolingo 120-129 | Cambridge CAE 185-199 — required by top-tier universities & skilled migration
- IELTS 7.5 (CEFR C1)
- = TOEFL 102-109 | PTE 73-78 | Duolingo 130-144 | CLB 9 — competitive programs & professional registration
- IELTS 6.0 (CEFR B2)
- = TOEFL 60-78 | PTE 50-57 | Duolingo 100-109 | CLB 7 — foundation programs & some skilled visas
Reverse Lookup: Convert TOEFL, PTE & Duolingo to IELTS
- TOEFL 90
- ≈ IELTS 6.5 (upper range) — qualifies for most universities; IELTS 7.0 starts at TOEFL 94
- TOEFL 100
- ≈ IELTS 7.0 (lower range) — meets top-tier university thresholds; IELTS 7.5 starts at TOEFL 102
- PTE 58
- ≈ IELTS 6.5 — meets Australian PR and most UK university requirements
- Duolingo 120
- ≈ IELTS 7.0 — accepted by 5,000+ institutions; verify with your target university first
- CEFR B2
- ≈ IELTS 5.5–6.5 — standard for European university admissions and Erasmus programs
- CEFR C1
- ≈ IELTS 7.0–7.5 — required for competitive programs and professional registration in the EU
Exact Lookup: IELTS, TOEFL, CEFR, PTE and Duolingo Conversions
Fast answers for the most searched score equivalency queries:
- IELTS 6.5 equivalent
- IELTS 6.5 equals CEFR B2, TOEFL iBT 79–93, PTE 58–64 and Duolingo 110–119.
- IELTS 7.0 equivalent
- IELTS 7.0 equals CEFR C1, TOEFL iBT 94–101, PTE 65–72 and Duolingo 120–129.
- IELTS 7.5 equivalent
- IELTS 7.5 equals CEFR C1, TOEFL iBT 102–109, PTE 73–78 and Duolingo 130–144.
- IELTS 5.5 equivalent
- IELTS 5.5 equals CEFR B2, TOEFL iBT 46–59, PTE 42–49 and Duolingo 90–99.
- TOEFL 90 to IELTS
- TOEFL iBT 90 is approximately IELTS 6.5. IELTS 7.0 starts at TOEFL iBT 94.
- TOEFL 100 to IELTS
- TOEFL iBT 100 is approximately IELTS 7.0. IELTS 7.5 starts at TOEFL iBT 102.
- TOEFL 110 to IELTS
- TOEFL iBT 110 is approximately IELTS 8.0. TOEFL 102–109 maps to IELTS 7.5.
- Duolingo 100 to IELTS
- Duolingo 100 is approximately IELTS 6.0 and CEFR B2.
- Duolingo 120 to IELTS
- Duolingo 120 is approximately IELTS 7.0 and CEFR C1.
- Duolingo 130 to IELTS
- Duolingo 130 is approximately IELTS 7.5 and CEFR C1.
- CEFR B1 to IELTS
- CEFR B1 usually maps to IELTS 4.0–5.0.
- CEFR B2 to IELTS
- CEFR B2 maps to IELTS 5.5–6.5. IELTS 6.5 is still B2, not C1.
- CEFR C1 to IELTS
- CEFR C1 starts at IELTS 7.0 and includes IELTS 7.0–7.5.
- PTE 64 to IELTS
- PTE 64 is approximately IELTS 6.5. PTE 65 starts the IELTS 7.0 range.
- PTE 72 to IELTS
- PTE 72 is approximately IELTS 7.0. PTE 73 starts the IELTS 7.5 range.
6 6 Major English Proficiency Tests Compared
B1–C2 CEFR Levels (A1–C2) Mapped to IELTS Bands
4.0–9.0 Full IELTS Band Range Covered: 4.0 to 9.0
200+ Accepted in 140+ Countries for Study, Work & Immigration
🇪🇺IELTS vs CEFR (Common European Framework): Key Differences & Acceptance
| IELTS | CEFR | CEFR / Proficiency Level |
|---|---|---|
| 9.0 | C2 | Mastery (C2) |
| 8.0–8.5 | C2 | Mastery (C2) |
| 7.0–7.5 | C1 | Advanced (C1) |
| 5.5–6.5 | B2 | Upper-Intermediate (B2) |
| 4.0–5.0 | B1 | Intermediate (B1) |
The CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) is the global standard for describing language ability — from A1 (beginner) to C2 (mastery). It's used by schools, governments, and employers across Europe and beyond.
IELTS bands map directly to CEFR levels: Band 5.5–6.5 = B2 (Upper-Intermediate); Band 7.0–7.5 = C1 (Advanced); Band 8.0+ = C2 (Proficient/Mastery). This IELTS to CEFR conversion is based on official Cambridge English alignment research.
If a European university asks for 'CEFR B2', you need IELTS 5.5–6.5. For 'CEFR C1', you need IELTS 7.0. The CEFR B2 equivalent IELTS score is the most commonly requested conversion for university admissions. No conversion guesswork — just clear, official alignment.
🇺🇸IELTS vs TOEFL iBT: Key Differences & Acceptance
| IELTS | TOEFL |
|---|---|
| 9.0 | 118–120 |
| 8.5 | 113–117 |
| 8.0 | 110–112 |
| 7.5 | 102–109 |
| 7.0 | 94–101 |
| 6.5 | 79–93 |
| 6.0 | 60–78 |
| 5.5 | 46–59 |
TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language internet-Based Test) uses a 0–120 scale and is the top choice for US universities and widely accepted elsewhere. Its integrated tasks emphasize academic English in context.
IELTS 6.5 ≈ TOEFL 79–93 | IELTS 7.0 ≈ TOEFL 94–101 | IELTS 7.5 ≈ TOEFL 102–109 | IELTS 8.0 ≈ TOEFL 110–112 — based on ETS's official concordance table. This IELTS to TOEFL conversion is updated annually.
Note: Some US universities accept TOEFL Home Edition; most UK/AU/NZ institutions still prefer IELTS or TOEFL iBT at test centres. TOEFL 90 is equivalent to IELTS 6.5 (upper range), while TOEFL 100 is equivalent to IELTS 7.0.
📊IELTS vs PTE Academic: Key Differences & Acceptance
| IELTS | PTE |
|---|---|
| 9.0 | 89–90 |
| 8.5 | 83–88 |
| 8.0 | 79–82 |
| 7.5 | 73–78 |
| 7.0 | 65–72 |
| 6.5 | 58–64 |
| 6.0 | 50–57 |
| 5.5 | 42–49 |
PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English) uses a 10–90 scale, is fully computer-delivered and AI-scored — offering fast results (1–2 days) and growing popularity for Australian PR and UKVI.
IELTS 6.5 ≈ PTE 58–64 | IELTS 7.0 ≈ PTE 65–72 | IELTS 7.5 ≈ PTE 73–78 | IELTS 8.0 ≈ PTE 79–82 — based on Pearson's official score comparison tables. This IELTS to PTE conversion is verified against official concordance data.
Unlike IELTS, PTE combines skills in some tasks (e.g., Read Aloud tests reading + speaking). Strong typing and tech comfort help. PTE 58 is equivalent to IELTS 6.5, and PTE 65 is equivalent to IELTS 7.0 for most immigration purposes.
🇬🇧IELTS vs Cambridge English (C1 Advanced / C2 Proficiency): Key Differences & Acceptance
| IELTS | Cambridge | CEFR / Proficiency Level |
|---|---|---|
| 9.0 | C2 CPE: 230+ | Grade A (C2) |
| 8.0–8.5 | C2 CPE: 200–229 | Grades A/B (C1–B2) |
| 7.0–7.5 | C1 CAE: 185–199 | Grades A/B (C1–B2) |
| 6.5 | C1 CAE: 176–184 | Grade C (B1) |
| 5.5–6.0 | B2 FCE: 160–175 | Grades A/B (C1–B2) |
Cambridge English exams use the Cambridge English Scale (140–230). C1 Advanced (CAE, formerly Certificate in Advanced English) and C2 Proficiency (CPE, formerly Certificate of Proficiency in English) are lifelong qualifications — unlike time-limited IELTS scores.
IELTS 7.0 ≈ CAE 185–199 | IELTS 8.0 ≈ CPE 200–229 | IELTS 9.0 ≈ CPE 230+. Both indicate CEFR C1/C2 — but Cambridge focuses more on real-world communication, while IELTS mirrors academic and immigration contexts.
Cambridge certificates never expire — ideal if you plan long-term study or career moves. IELTS scores must be retaken every 2 years. The IELTS equivalent to Cambridge English scores is based on official Cambridge Assessment English mapping.
🦉IELTS vs Duolingo English Test: Key Differences & Acceptance
| IELTS | Duolingo |
|---|---|
| 8.5–9.0 | 145–160 |
| 7.5–8.0 | 130–144 |
| 7.0 | 120–129 |
| 6.5 | 110–119 |
| 6.0 | 100–109 |
| 5.5 | 90–99 |
The Duolingo English Test (DET) uses a 10–160 scale, is affordable ($70), fully online, and takes under 1 hour — making it accessible for quick checks or budget-conscious learners.
IELTS 6.5 ≈ Duolingo 110–119 | IELTS 7.0 ≈ Duolingo 120–129 | IELTS 7.5 ≈ Duolingo 130–144 | IELTS 8.5+ ≈ Duolingo 145–160. However, **Duolingo is NOT accepted by IRCC (Canada), UKVI (UK), or most professional regulators** — verify acceptance first.
Great for self-assessment or early-stage IELTS preparation — but not a substitute for official tests where strict acceptance rules apply. Duolingo 120 is equivalent to IELTS 7.0, and Duolingo 130 is equivalent to IELTS 7.5.
🇨🇦IELTS vs CLB (Canadian Language Benchmarks): Key Differences & Acceptance
| IELTS | CLB |
|---|---|
| 8.0+ (L:8.5 R:8.0 W:7.5 S:7.5) | CLB 10 |
| 7.5 (L:8.0 R:7.0 W:7.0 S:7.0) | CLB 9 |
| 7.0 (L:7.5 R:6.5 W:6.5 S:6.5) | CLB 8 |
| 6.0 (L:6.0 R:6.0 W:6.0 S:6.0) | CLB 7 |
| 5.0 (L:5.0 R:4.0 W:5.0 S:5.0) | CLB 5 |
CLB (Canadian Language Benchmarks) is Canada's official English language benchmark system (levels 1–12). IRCC uses your **lowest IELTS General Training band score** — not the average — to assign your CLB level for Express Entry and other immigration programs.
CLB 7 = IELTS 6.0 in Listening, Reading, Writing, *and* Speaking (General Training). CLB 8 = IELTS 7.0 in all four skills (but only 6.5 in Listening). CLB 9 = IELTS 8.0 Listening + 7.0 in other skills. CLB 10 = IELTS 8.5 Listening + 7.5 in other skills.
Improving your weakest skill lifts your entire CLB level — and your Express Entry CRS score. Focus practice there first. The IELTS to CLB conversion is critical for Canadian immigration — one low band can drop your entire CLB level.
Which English Proficiency Test Should You Take?
Your best English test depends entirely on your goal: academic admission, skilled immigration, or professional licensing — and the specific requirements of your destination country or institution.
For university admission: IELTS Academic and TOEFL iBT lead globally. IELTS is preferred by UK, Australian, Canadian, and EU universities; TOEFL remains dominant in US admissions.
For immigration: Canada accepts IELTS General Training, CELPIP, and PTE Core. Australia accepts IELTS, PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, and Cambridge English. The UK requires a UKVI-approved SELT — such as IELTS for UKVI or PTE Academic UKVI.
For professional registration (nursing, medicine, engineering, teaching): Regulatory bodies almost always specify IELTS Academic — often with minimum scores per skill (e.g., 'no band below 7.0').
Do Universities & Immigration Authorities Accept All Tests Equally?
No — acceptance is **not universal**. Each organization publishes its own list of approved tests and required scores.
IELTS is the **most widely accepted English proficiency test worldwide**, recognized by over 12,000 institutions in 140+ countries — including governments, universities, and professional boards.
Never assume equivalence. Always check the official website of every university, immigration portal, or licensing authority before booking your test.
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How Accurate Are IELTS Score Conversions?
IELTS score conversions are based on large-scale concordance studies — not formulas. They reflect how groups of test takers performed across exams, not individual ability.
Assessment methods differ significantly: IELTS Speaking is a live interview with a human examiner; PTE is fully AI-scored; TOEFL uses AI + human rater calibration. These differences affect comparability.
Use this guide as a trusted starting point — then validate your target score against official requirements and invest in targeted IELTS preparation to close any gaps.
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Whether you're aiming for IELTS 6.5 (TOEFL 79, PTE 58, CEFR B2) or IELTS 7.5 (TOEFL 102, PTE 73, CEFR C1), focused practice delivers faster, more reliable score improvement than generic study.
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Frequently Asked Questions About IELTS Score Equivalency
- Is IELTS 6.5 equivalent to CEFR B2 or C1?
- IELTS 6.5 falls within the CEFR B2 (Upper-Intermediate) range. CEFR C1 (Advanced) starts at IELTS 7.0. This is based on the official Cambridge English alignment between IELTS band scores and CEFR levels. The CEFR B2 equivalent IELTS score is 5.5–6.5.
- What TOEFL score is equivalent to IELTS 6.5?
- IELTS 6.5 is equivalent to TOEFL iBT 79-93 according to ETS's official concordance data. A TOEFL score of 79 is the lower boundary, while 93 is the upper boundary for this IELTS band. TOEFL 90 falls in the upper portion of this range, close to but not quite reaching IELTS 7.0.
- What PTE score equals IELTS 6.5?
- IELTS 6.5 corresponds to PTE Academic 58-64 based on Pearson's official score comparison tables. For Australian immigration, PTE 58 meets the same threshold as IELTS 6.5. PTE 60 is also within the IELTS 6.5 range.
- What is TOEFL 90 equivalent to in IELTS?
- TOEFL iBT 90 falls within the IELTS 6.5 band range (TOEFL 79-93 = IELTS 6.5). It's in the upper portion of this range, close to but not quite reaching IELTS 7.0 (which starts at TOEFL 94). Similarly, TOEFL 79 = IELTS 6.5 (lower boundary).
- What is IELTS 7.0 equivalent to?
- IELTS 7.0 is equivalent to TOEFL iBT 94-101, PTE Academic 65-72, CEFR C1 (Advanced), Duolingo 120-129, and Cambridge CAE 185-199. This is the most common threshold for top universities and skilled migration programs.
- What is Duolingo 130 equivalent to in IELTS?
- Duolingo English Test 130 is equivalent to IELTS 7.5 (CEFR C1). The official Duolingo concordance maps DET 130–144 to IELTS 7.5–8.0, TOEFL iBT 102–109, and PTE Academic 73–78. Note that Duolingo is not accepted by IRCC (Canada), UKVI (UK), or most professional regulators — verify acceptance before relying on this conversion.
- What is IELTS 7.5 equivalent to in TOEFL?
- IELTS 7.5 is equivalent to TOEFL iBT 102-109 according to ETS's official concordance table. This score also corresponds to PTE 73-78, CEFR C1, and CLB 9 for Canadian immigration.
- What Duolingo score equals IELTS 7.0?
- IELTS 7.0 is approximately equivalent to Duolingo English Test 120-129. However, Duolingo is not accepted by IRCC (Canada), UKVI (UK), or most professional regulators. Always verify acceptance before relying on this conversion. Duolingo 130 is closer to IELTS 7.5.
Sources & Official Concordance References
All equivalency data reflects current, publicly available concordance research from leading testing organizations:
- •ETS — Official TOEFL iBT ↔ IELTS Score Comparison Tool
- •Pearson — PTE Academic ↔ IELTS Conversion Tables
- •Council of Europe — CEFR Official Framework & Alignment Guidelines
- •Cambridge English — IELTS to CEFR Mapping Report
All sources verified March 24, 2026. Immigration policies, university requirements, and test formats evolve. Always consult official websites before registering or submitting scores.
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