Have you come across two similar-looking products that seem to be in the same category only to find out they are so different once you learn about their features and purposes?
Well, that's how you will feel when you compare the Malaysian University English Test (MUET) and International English Language Test System (IELTS) even though both of them are language proficiency tests.
Don't get us wrong, both of them do share some similarities.
Firstly, they measure one's English proficiency level comprehensively through a guided band system, covering the listening, writing, reading and speaking components. Secondly, they also play a role in terms of the admission requirement when it comes to applying for your desired undergraduate programmes in universities.
That's why you will notice that many pre-university students register to sit for both of these tests on a monthly basis each year in Malaysia.
If you are currently looking for legit information about this matter, you are certainly in the right place.
In this article, we will look at five main differences between these two English language proficiency tests: MUET and IELTS.
Difference 1: Grading Bands & Organisation Bodies
While both MUET and IELTS have 9 bands respectively, they have different descriptors and band scales.
Since 2021, the band scale of the MUET has been revised and is aligned with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
You can refer to this first table to review the latest band scale and descriptor of MUET.
| Aggregated Score | Band Description |
|---|---|
| 331-360 | 5+ [Proficient User] |
| 294-330 | 5.0 [Proficient User] |
| 258-293 | 4.5 [Independent User] |
| 211-257 | 4.0 [Independent User] |
| 164-210 | 3.5 [Independent User] |
| 123-163 | 3.0 [Independent User] |
| 82-122 | 2.5 [IBasic User] |
| 36-81 | 2.0 [Basic User] |
| 1-35 | 1.0 [Basic User] |
On the other hand, this is the band scale and descriptor of IELTS.
| Band Score | Description | User Skill |
|---|---|---|
| Band 9 | Candidates show a full operational command of the language. Candidate's use of English is appropriate, accurate and fluent, and demonstrate complete understanding. | Expert User |
| Band 8 | Candidates have a fully operational command of the language with only occasional unsystematic inaccuracies and inappropriate usage. Candidates may misunderstand some things in unfamiliar situations but can still manage complex detailed argumentation well. | Very Good User |
| Band 7 | Candidates have an operational command of the language, though with occasional inaccuracies, inappropriate usage and misunderstandings in some situations. Generally can handle complex language well and understand detailed reasoning. | Good User |
| Band 6 | Candidates generally have an effective command of the language despite some inaccuracies, inappropriate usage and misunderstandings. There is no problem in understanding fairly complex language, particularly in familiar situations. | Competent User |
| Band 5 | Candidates have a partial command of the language, and cope with overall meaning in most situations, although there could be occasions of making many mistakes. Candidates should be able to handle basic communication in their own field. | Modest User |
| Band 4 | Candidates show basic competence and are limited to familiar situations. They frequently show problems in understanding and expression. They are unable to use complex language. | Limited User |
| Band 3 | Candidates convey and understand only general meaning in very familiar situations. There are frequent breakdowns in communication. | Extremely Limited User |
| Band 2 | Candidates find it very challenging to understand written and spokken English. | Intermittent User |
| Band 1 | Candidates have no ability to use the language except a few isolated words. | Non-User |
| Band 0 | Candidates did not attempt the test. | Did Not Attempt The Test |
The main reason why both of these tests have different band scales is that they are administered and offered by two different organisations.
Let's start with MUET.
MUET is administered by the Malaysian Examination Council (MEC) which also prepares and publishes the official syllabus of the Sijil Tinggi Pendidikan Malaysia (STPM) for Form Six students apart from the MUET. Hence, Form Six students, local matriculation students or private candidates will need to register for MUET and also check their results via the MEC web portal.
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For those of you who plan to take the test at your respective institutions, rest assured that your MUET subject teacher will guide you regarding the necessary steps to prepare before you finalise your registration.
You might want to check out some MUET learning resources to have an overview of this test too.
Next, let's talk about IELTS.
IELTS is jointly administered by a few international bodies namely: British Council, International Development Program (IDP), IELTS Australia and Cambridge Assessment English.
For Malaysian candidates, you are most likely to register for the test through the British Council or IDP websites. Not only that, you can also walk into some of the nearest British Council or IDP offices around you to talk to an employee to guide you through the entire process.
Difference 2: Overall Examination Format
Even though MUET and IELTS have the same tested components, their examination syllabus and structure are different from each other.
Listening Component (MUET vs IELTS)
MUET candidates will need to answer 30 questions for the listening component. The 30 questions comprise 5 parts.
- Part 1 consists of 7 questions [Dialogue]
- Part 2 consists of 7 questions [ Monologue]
- Part 3 consists of 3 questions [Monologue involving 3 speakers]
- Part 4 consists of 7 questions [Dialogue]
- Part 5 consists of 6 questions [Short Dialogue]
The test duration for the MUET listening component is 50 minutes.
IELTS candidates will need to answer 40 questions for the listening component. The 40 questions comprise 4 recordings of native English speakers.
- Recording 1 consists of 10 questions [Conversation between two people]
- Recording 2 consists of 10 questions [Monologue]
- Recording 3 consists of 10 questions [Conversation involving multiple speakers- like four speakers]
- Recording 4 consists of 10 questions [Monologue on an academic topic]
The test duration for the IELTS listening component is 30 minutes.
Reading Component (MUET vs IELTS)
MUET candidates will need to answer 40 questions for the reading component. The 40 questions consist of 7 different parts (texts/passages).
Important note: The questions are either multiple choice questions or multiple matching questions.
- Part 1 has 4 questions
- Parts 2 and 3 have 10 questions
- Part 4 has 6 questions
- Part 5 has 6 questions
- Parts 6 and 7 have 14 questions
The test duration for the MUET reading component is 75 minutes.
Don't forget to read through these tips to master each MUET component comprehensively.
IELTS candidates will need to answer 40 questions for the reading component. The 40 questions consist of 3 long texts ( 3 sections).
The answering methods range from:
- Filling in the gaps of a written text or table
- Completing sentences
- Matching statements to diagrams/ charts
- Multiple choice questions
- Providing short answers to open questions [Not more than two words]
The test duration for the IELTS reading component is 60 minutes.
Writing Component (MUET vs IELTS)
MUET candidates are given two tasks for the writing component.
Task 1 requires them to write an email or a letter of at least 100 words [Guided writing]. Task 2 requires them to write a long essay either in the format of a discursive essay, argumentative essay or a problem-solution essay of at least 250 words [Extended writing].
The test duration for the MUET writing component is 75 minutes.
Don't forget to explore the marking scheme of the MUET papers as you are preparing for the test.
Similarly, IELTS candidates will also undergo two writing tasks under this component.
However, Task 1 [at least 100 words] requires them to describe, summarise and expand on a given non-linear information (graph, chart, table).
Task 2 [at least 250 words] requires them to write a long essay to express their opinion (agree or disagree), to discuss two sides of a scenario before coming to a clear conclusion (pros and cons, for and against) or to give a response to a problem and come out with possible solutions.
The test duration for the IELTS writing component is 60 minutes.
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Speaking Component (MUET vs IELTS)
MUET candidates are given two speaking tasks.
Part 1 consists of an individual presentation based on a written prompt [4 minutes] while Part 2 consists of a group discussion and five prompts based on a question.
IELTS candidates, on the other hand, will undergo three speaking parts.
Part 1 consists of a simple self-introduction and a simple exchange of questions between the examiner and the candidates. Topics that may arise include family, hobbies, studies etc.
For Part 2, candidates will be given a task card to talk about a particular topic. After talking for 1 to 2 minutes, the examiner will ask a few questions based on what the candidates have spoken. For Part 3, the examiner will take the lead to ask the candidates to expand on what they have discussed earlier.
Difference 3: Level of Recognition And Purpose
MUET is recognised in Malaysian and Singaporean universities, especially when it comes to admission to local public universities like Universiti Malaya and Universiti Putra Malaysia.
So if you are gearing to apply to a public university after your pre-university studies, MUET should be your go-to option.
IELTS is more recognised as an international language proficiency test and also for those who intend to work or live overseas. That's why when it comes to IELTS, there are different types of tests such as IELTS Academic, IELTS General Training as well as IELTS for UK Visas and Immigration.
In other words, MUET is more catered to testing your English ability for solely educational purposes while IELTS is catered to testing your ability for both educational purposes and also assimilation purposes (working/staying) in an English-speaking country.
Continue reading this article to learn more about the benefits of taking MUET.
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Difference 4: Examination Location & Examination Fees
When it comes to MUET locations, it is usually held in higher education institutions like Form Six schools, matriculation colleges and universities.
IELTS is usually held in the British Council offices or IDP branches in different states in Malaysia. The locations will be indicated when you finalise your registration at the websites.
In terms of affordability, MUET takes the lead.
Malaysian candidates only need to pay RM150 for the entire test. If they choose to opt for Muet on Demand (online), the test would be RM350.
The latest revised fee for IELTS is now RM835 (for both Paper and Online).
Difference 5: Duration Of Certificate Validity
Your MUET results have a higher validity time: 5 years as compared to the IELTS results which have a validity period of 2 years. Hence, it's wise to plan ahead if you intend to take the IELTS paper.
If you take the MUET, you can use the certificate throughout your undergraduate or even postgraduate studies.
Now that you have reviewed the differences between MUET and IELTS, you should be able to make a decision on which language proficiency test to take.
If you made up your mind to take the MUET and intend to look for a MUET tutor, we got the perfect solution for you!
Head to Superprof to start looking for a reliable MUET tutor that offers home tutoring near your city or flexible online tutoring.
In just a few clicks, you are able to hire a tutor that matches your preferences in terms of teaching qualification, years of experience, tutoring methodology, hourly rates and so forth.
You can then contact them via their profiles to start discussing your future lessons! How simple is that?
Now, you're on your way to ace your MUET papers like a pro!
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Helpful insight! thanks