Many times, students in public schools will know about MUET more than IELTS, but both are English Proficiency Test, so let’s get into details.
Pro of IELTS: recognised worldwide, Con: pricier than MUET
Pro of MUET: Cheaper, Con: not recognized worldwide
When should you go for MUET?
If you plan to stay in Malaysia and do not wish to apply for a scholarship from foreign universities. Unfortunately, many foreign universities do not accept MUET as a certificated of English level. However both public and private universities in Malaysia will accept MUET.
When should you go for IELTS?
IELTS is for students who want to experience a different environment entirely. IELTS will increase your chance of getting accepted into a university abroad and increase your chance of getting a scholarship as English proficiency is one of the basic things for a foreign student.
Which is easier?
There is no easy exam, you should not expect IELTS to be easier than MUET or likewise, both exams require preparation before you can enter into the exam hall.
Personal opinion as someone who have taken both exams, IELTS would test more on the vocabulary and comprehension, MUET would have group discussion which IELTS doesn’t have.
Check out IELTS on Google to find out more
Some universities in non-English speaking countries require an IELTS score, where courses are taught in English.
Click this MUET link to find out more about the exam
MUET is compulsory for STPM candidates, matriculation students, diploma and pre-university students who wish to pursue a first degree programme in local universities in Malaysia.
And if you want to get into prestige university in Malaysia like UKM or UM, you will need a high score in MUET. Note that local universities are cheaper than studying abroad, but private universities are not necessary the cheapest option