CAE vs IELTS: Which Exam is Best for You?

Are you confused between CAE vs IELTS ? Find the key differences, formats, and which test suits your goals. Learn about CAE vs IELTS which is easier and how to decide.

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CAE vs IELTS are two different types of exams that evaluate your English language skills to study or work in international countries. Understanding the differences between CAE vs IELTS is key to achieving your goals. While both the exams get global recognition for study, immigration, and career opportunities, there are slightly different purposes, and they suit different kinds of learners. If you are not sure of which test is required for your needs, we have explained the key differences between Cambridge English Advanced (CAE) and International English Language Testing System (IELTS). You will also understand the CAE vs IELTS which is easier, how they are structured, and how to prepare for them.

Also Read: Differences Between ACT and SAT

What are CAE vs IELTS

Having a clear understanding of CAE vs. IELTS is crucial before you start your preparation for any of these exams. Read below about the CAE vs IELTS exams and their full forms.

CA (Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English)

The full form of CAE is Cambridge English: Advanced. CAE is high-level , and an in-depth qualification that shows your language skills that are needed to study or work in English speaking countries. This test proves you can communicate confidently in professional and academic settings. CAE test is recognised globally and it never expires which means you can take this exam once and after passing the test, it stays forever with you.

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IELTS (International English Language Testing System)

International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is the most popular English proficiency test for higher education and global migration for international students and professionals. The IELTS advanced exam is accepted by 11,000+ institutions across the world, which include universities, immigration authorities, and employers. The IELTS test assesses your abilities in reading, speaking, listening, and writing. The IELTS test score remains valid for 2 years.

Also Read: How to Start IELTS Journey from Beginning

CAE vs IELTS Exam Format and Structure

Both CAE and IELTS test the ability in all four skills like Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking. But their exam format, scoring, duration based on their purpose. Check out the table below to understand the key differences in CAE vs IELTS.

Feature	CAE	IELTS
Test Type	Paper-based or Computer-based	Paper-based or Computer-based
Duration	Approximately 4 hours	Approximately 2 hours 45 minutes
Scoring	Cambridge English Scale: 160–210 (C1 = 180–199; C2 = 200–210)	Overall Band Score (average of 4 sections), from 1 to 9
Validity	Certificate valid for life	Valid for 2 years
Sections	4 sections: Listening, Reading, Speaking, and Writing	4 sections: Listening, Reading, Speaking, and Writing
Test Level	C1 level	Band scores from 1 to 9, available in Academic & General Training formats

CAE vs IELTS Which is Easier

There is no specific answer to CAE vs IELTS which is easier as it depends on your purpose, and English proficiency. CAE and IELTS exams are designed to evaluate advanced English skills. But, both the exams are different in scoring, structure, and difficulty level.

CAE May Feel Easier If:

You want an English proficiency certificate that stays lifelong as it never expires. The CAE test provides you with a lifelong qualification, while the IELTS exam test is valid for only 2 years.
You are confident at advanced-level English (C1). This will benefit you if you are well-prepared.
You want structured, and academic-style questions. CAE follows a consistent format with fewer changes in question-type.
You are targeting European universities and professional roles. There are many institutions in the UK and Europe that prefer or accept Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English.

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IELTS May Feel Easier If:

You prefer a flexible scoring system. In the IELTS test, the band score is from 1 to 9. It indicates, if you didn’t perform equally in all four sections, you can still get a good overall score.
You want to take shorter tests. The time duration for the IELTS exam is 2hours 45 minutes, while CAE takes nearly 4 hours.
You want to apply for visas or PR. The IELTS test is widely accepted for immigration to countries such as Canada, Australia, and the UK.
You want fast results. The IELTS test is also computer-based which provides results in 3-5 days, while CAE results may take 2-3 weeks.

CAE vs IELTS Key Factors to Choose the Right Exam

To choose the right exam between CAE vs IELTS, we have shared some important factors, which you can check below.

There are some countries such as US and Canada that prefer the IELTS exam for university admissions and immigration purposes. In the UK and Europe, both the exams CAE and IELTS are accepted. But, the CAE exam is more common in European institutions and job markets.
If you are applying for university admissions, then the IELTS exam is best fit as it is accepted worldwide. IELTS General Training is most widely accepted around the world for work or PR. And, if you want to earn a qualification, then Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE) is ideal for showcasing lifelong advanced English skills.
CAE provides you lifetime validity. It means you don’t need to take the CAE exam again after passing. while IELTS is valid for 2 years.
CAE exam follows a traditional test format, while IELTS’s listening section requires separate headphones and the speaking test is conducted either in person or via video call.

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CAE vs IELTS FAQs