Which test should you take?
Most students can choose between two tests, and the right answer usually comes down to format rather than difficulty. These guides set the options side by side — sections, timing, scoring and what each one rewards — so you can pick on evidence instead of hearsay.
Every format in these guides was last verified September 24, 2026 against the exam owners’ own pages, which each guide links to.
SAT vs ACT
SAT vs ACT compared from the test owners' own pages: sections, timing, time per question, scoring, adaptivity and how each is taken, so you can decide which format suits you.
GMAT vs GRE
GMAT vs GRE compared from GMAC's and ETS's own pages: sections, timing, scoring, adaptivity and test-day rules, for MBA and other graduate applicants deciding between them.
TOEFL vs IELTS
TOEFL iBT vs IELTS Academic compared from ETS's and IELTS's own pages: sections, length, score scales, delivery and recent changes, so you can decide which suits you.
IB Diploma vs A Level
IB Diploma vs A Level compared from the IB's and the exam boards' own pages: structure, grading, pass conditions and assessment, so you can decide which suits your plans.
AP vs IB Diploma
AP vs IB compared from College Board's and the IB's own pages: structure, scoring, how each is assessed and the commitment involved, so you can decide which fits your plans.
IELTS vs PTE Academic
IELTS Academic vs PTE Academic compared from IELTS's and Pearson's own pages: parts, length, score scales, delivery and recent changes, so you can decide which suits you.