If you’re an international student aspiring to study in an English-speaking country, you must demonstrate your English proficiency. Fortunately, there are a couple of widely recognised English language exams that universities worldwide accept – the IELTS and TOEFL. IELTS Vs TOEFL is a debate that we will explore in this article.
The IELTS (International English Language Testing System) and TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) are essential for admission to universities. Both can be taken at authorised test centres in your home country. Finding the nearest centre is a breeze with the links provided for each test. However, the cost of each test is determined by the centre in your country, so it is best to inquire about the expenses beforehand.
While both tests are acknowledged by top universities worldwide, they differ significantly regarding structure and question types. So, to determine which one to take and which one suits you better, let’s delve deeper into the details of each exam.
Let us first understand what each exam means and the value it holds
IELTS – International English Language Testing System
The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is tailored to evaluate your English proficiency to enable you to study, work or move to an English-speaking country. Countries such as Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the UK and the USA are some countries where this test is functional.
During the exam, your competence in reading, listening, writing and speaking in English will be assessed, and you will be given a grade on a scale of 1-9. IELTS is jointly owned by the British Council; IDP IELTS; and Cambridge University Press & Assessment.
This test is recognised globally by over 11,000 employers, schools, universities and immigration agencies, with 3,400 establishments in the USA alone, according to the official website of IELTS.
TOEFL – Test of English as a Foreign Language
As an international student interested in pursuing higher education in an English-speaking country, taking the TOEFL test may be a requirement. The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) evaluates your proficiency in understanding and speaking English, measuring your ability in reading, writing, listening and speaking, all of which are vital skills necessary for academic success in an English-speaking environment.
Institutions of higher learning and government agencies in more than 130 countries acknowledge TOEFL scores when evaluating applications for specific positions or courses. Some courses may necessitate a minimum TOEFL score in addition to the standard course prerequisites to be eligible for admission. The minimum score requirements typically range from 61 to 100, depending on the institution and course.
IELTS Vs TOEFL – What Is The Difference Between The Tests?
Highlights
| Criteria | IELTS | TOEFL |
| Conducting Body | IDP and British Council | ETS |
| Testing Medium | Both Online and Offline | Both Online and Offline |
| Test Type | IELTS Academic, IELTS General and IELTS Indicator | TOEFL iBT |
| Test Duration | 2 hours and 45 minutes | 4 hours |
| Interval | No break during IELTS listening, reading and writing tests. The IELTS speaking is usually taken one week before or after the test. | 10 minutes break between TOEFL listening and speaking. |
| Sections | Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking | Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking |
| Score Range | 0-9 | 0-120 |
| Minimum Score Required for University | 6.3 | 90 |
| Exam Frequency | 48 times in a year | Over 50 times in a year |
| Score Card Delivery | 11-13 days | 4-8 days |
| Fees | INR 15,500 | INR 15,678 |
Format Of IELTS Vs TOEFL
IELTS and TOEFL offer numerous test dates per year for the convenience of test-takers. IELTS provides 48 test dates per year, while TOEFL is available on more than 50 dates annually. The table below presents a simple comparison of the two tests.
| IELTS Academic | Questions | TOEFL iBT | Questions | |
| Listening | 30 mins | 40 | 41-57 mins | 28-39 |
| Reading | 60 mins | 40 | 54-72 mins | 30-40 |
| Writing | 60 mins | 2 tasks | 50 mins | 2 tasks |
| Speaking | 11-14 mins | 3 parts | 17 mins | 4 tasks |
Let’s bifurcate and see each section of both the tests and difference amongst them.
IELTS vs TOEFL – Listening
An often-circulated misconception about IELTS and TOEFL is that IELTS assesses British English, while TOEFL focuses on US English. However, both tests encompass various English accents, including North American, British, Australian and New Zealand accents, ensuring that candidates have a well-rounded understanding of the language.
The IELTS Listening test comprises four parts, each consisting of ten questions. Parts 1 and 2 are centred around everyday English, while Parts 3 and 4 assess academic English. Parts 1 and 3 feature multiple speakers, while Parts 2 and 4 are delivered as monologues by a single speaker.
On the other hand, the TOEFL iBT Listening test comprises lectures and conversations that use the language skills typically required at university. The test includes three to four lectures, each consisting of six questions and two to three conversations with two speakers, with five questions per conversation.
| TOEFL | IELTS |
| 30 | 9 |
| 29 | 8.5 |
| 28 | 8 |
| 27 | 7.5 |
| 24-26 | 7 |
| 20-23 | 6.5 |
| 12-19 | 6 |
| 7-11 | 5.5 |
| 4-6 | 5 |
| 3 | 4.5 |
| 0-2 | 0-4 |
IELTS vs TOEFL – Reading
In the IELTS Academic Reading test, there are three passages with a combined total of approximately 2,750 words. The first two passages have thirteen questions each, while the third passage has fourteen questions. These questions will cover various question types, as previously mentioned. The reading texts are sourced from books, journals, magazines, newspapers, or websites. You are not required to be an expert in the subject matter, but rather, you must be able to answer the questions based on the text.
Similarly, the TOEFL iBT reading section comprises three to four passages, each with a total of 700 words. Each passage is followed by ten multiple-choice questions. Like the IELTS, you do not need to be well-versed in the subject matter and can answer questions based on the information provided in the text.
Reading Test Score Comparison
| TOEFL | IELTS |
| 30 | 9 |
| 29 | 8.5 |
| 29 | 8 |
| 27-28 | 7.5 |
| 24-26 | 7 |
| 719-23 | 6.5 |
| 13-18 | 6 |
| 8-12 | 5.5 |
| 4-7 | 5 |
| 3 | 4.5 |
| 0-2 | 0-4 |
IELTS vs TOEFL – Writing
Both the IELTS and TOEFL Writing tests consist of two tasks. The IELTS Academic Writing test requires you to complete task one by interpreting information presented in a graph, chart, table or diagram within 20 minutes, and write a minimum of 150 words. For task two, you have 40 minutes to answer a discussion question in a minimum of 250 words, with the task worth double the marks of task one. If you’re taking the paper-based IELTS test, you must handwrite both tasks.
On the other hand, TOEFL iBT task one is unique in that it integrates reading and listening skills. You must read a brief passage and listen to a short lecture, then write a response based on the information presented. Task two requires you to write an essay expressing your personal experience or opinion on a given topic, and you have 50 minutes to complete both tasks.
Writing Test Score Comparison
| TOEFL | IELTS |
| 30 | 9 |
| 30 | 8.5 |
| 30 | 8 |
| 29 | 7.5 |
| 27-28 | 7 |
| 24-26 | 6.5 |
| 21-23 | 6 |
| 18-20 | 5.5 |
| 14-17 | 5 |
| 12-13 | 4.5 |
| 0-11 | 0-4 |
IELTS vs TOEFL – Speaking
The IELTS and TOEFL differ in how their speaking tests are conducted. In IELTS, you will have a face-to-face or video call conversation with an examiner, who records the test for review and training purposes. The test will be evaluated by the examiner and other reviewers as needed.
Meanwhile, the TOEFL iBT test requires you to listen to questions and provide answers through a microphone. The AI technology and human reviewers will then evaluate your responses. The timing of the speaking test also differs between the two exams. IELTS may or may not be taken on the same day as the other test components, while TOEFL iBT is always taken on the same day.
The IELTS Speaking test is composed of three parts: In part one, you provide personal information and discuss everyday topics. In part two, you will have one minute to prepare for a task and two minutes to deliver your talk. Finally, in part three, you engage in a discussion with the examiner related to the topic in part two.
Speaking Score Comparison
| TOEFL | IELTS |
| 30 | 9 |
| 28-29 | 8.5 |
| 26-27 | 8 |
| 24-25 | 7.5 |
| 23 | 7 |
| 20-22 | 6.5 |
| 18-19 | 6 |
| 16-17 | 5.5 |
| 14-15 | 5 |
| 12-13 | 4.5 |
| 0-11 | 0-4 |
Which One Should You Choose?
Firstly, it’s important to confirm which test(s) the institutions you’re interested in accept. If you have the luxury of time, you should consider which test is best suited for you between IELTS and TOEFL. TOEFL is completely computer-based and longer in duration, making it an excellent option if you’re concerned about your handwriting or English-speaking skills. On the other hand, IELTS is a shorter exam that may be more challenging, with a broader variety of question types and tasks, including one-on-one interaction with an examiner.
Ultimately, the choice of which exam is best for you is up to you. Both exams are widely accepted by hundreds of institutions worldwide, and test dates are available throughout the year.
FAQs
Which is easier, IELTS or TOEFL?
While both IELTS and TOEFL test basic English proficiency, many test takers find IELTS easier than TOEFL. This is particularly true for the reading section, according to student feedback.
Is TOEFL better than IELTS?
Both TOEFL and IELTS are widely accepted by universities around the world as proof of English language proficiency. Neither test is inherently better than the other, so it’s best to choose the one that best fits your needs.
Is TOEFL accepted in the UK?
Yes, all universities in the UK accept TOEFL scores. However, it’s always a good idea to confirm the details with study abroad consultants like Leverage Edu.
What is the TOEFL exam used for?
The TOEFL exam is widely accepted by over 8,500 institutions across 130 countries, including the UK, USA, and Australia. It serves as the primary English proficiency test for admission to many universities.
Does the USA accept IELTS?
Yes, major universities in the United States recognize IELTS as a valid measure of English language proficiency. IELTS results can be used as proof of your ability to read, write, speak, and understand English.
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I have done Bachelor’s in Culinary Arts from India and completed my graduation in the year 2022 .I am 22 years old. After graduation, I have done 1 year paid internship from USA .Now, I would like to take occupational experience and learn culinary skills and also do masters in Culinary arts.How can I find the college n best course / country where I can persue studying further