If you’re planning to study or work abroad, proving your English language proficiency is often a crucial requirement.
The two most widely recognized English language tests are TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) and IELTS (International English Language Testing System).
Understanding the differences between these tests can help you choose the one that best suits your needs. This article will provide a detailed comparison of TOEFL and IELTS to help you make an informed decision.
The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is an English proficiency test designed to assess the English language skills of non-native speakers.
Administered by ETS (Educational Testing Service), TOEFL is primarily used for academic purposes and is widely accepted by universities and colleges around the world, especially in the United States.
The test evaluates the four key language skills: reading, listening, speaking, and writing.
The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is another popular English proficiency test. It is jointly managed by the British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia, and Cambridge Assessment English. IELTS is available in two versions: Academic and General Training.
The Academic version is intended for those applying for higher education or professional registration, while the General Training version is for those planning to migrate to an English-speaking country or undertake non-academic training. Like TOEFL, IELTS assesses reading, listening, speaking, and writing skills.
While both tests serve the same purpose of assessing English language proficiency, there are several key differences between TOEFL and IELTS:
| Feature | TOEFL | IELTS |
|---|---|---|
| Administered By | ETS (Educational Testing Service) | British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia, Cambridge Assessment English |
| Test Versions | TOEFL iBT (Internet-Based Test), TOEFL PBT (Paper-Based Test) | IELTS Academic, IELTS General Training |
| Test Format | Internet-based (iBT) with multiple-choice questions | Paper-based and computer-delivered with various question types (multiple-choice, short answer, gap-filling) |
| Speaking Section | Conducted via computer; responses recorded | Face-to-face interview with an examiner |
| Scoring System | 0 to 120, with each section (reading, listening, speaking, writing) scored out of 30 | 0 to 9 band score for each section; overall band score is the average |
| Primary Focus | Academic English, American English usage | Academic and General English, includes British, Australian, and American English |
| Acceptance | Widely accepted in the USA, also accepted worldwide | Widely accepted in the UK, Europe, Canada, Australia, and other regions |
| Test Duration | Approximately 4 hours | Approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes |
| Reading Section | 3-4 passages with 12-14 questions each | 3 sections with a variety of question types |
| Listening Section | 4-6 lectures and 2-3 conversations, multiple-choice questions | 4 sections with a variety of question types |
| Writing Section | 2 tasks: Integrated and Independent | 2 tasks: Task 1 (describing a graph/table/chart), Task 2 (essay) |
| Cost | $160 to $250 (varies by country) | $215 to $240 (varies by country) |
| Results Availability | 6-10 days after the test | 13 days after the test (paper-based), 5-7 days (computer-delivered) |
Understanding the scoring systems of TOEFL and IELTS can help you interpret your results better:
Determining which test is easier depends on individual strengths and preferences:
The cost of taking the TOEFL or IELTS can vary depending on the location:
Both tests are designed to measure English proficiency, but some may find one more difficult than the other based on their skills:
Both TOEFL and IELTS are widely accepted, but preferences can vary by region:
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TOEFL is scored on a scale of 0 to 120 points. The test is divided into four sections: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing. Each section is scored out of 30 points. The scores from all four sections are then summed to get the total score. Here’s a breakdown of the scoring:
Reading: 0-30 points, based on the number of correct answers.
Listening: 0-30 points, based on the number of correct answers.
Speaking: 0-30 points, evaluated by human raters and AI, considering factors like pronunciation, fluency, and content.
Writing: 0-30 points, evaluated by human raters based on the quality of the essay and coherence.
Whether IELTS or TOEFL is better depends on individual preferences, strengths, and the specific requirements of the institutions or countries to which you are applying. Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:
TOEFL: May be better for those comfortable with American English and multiple-choice questions. It is widely accepted in the USA and emphasizes academic English.
IELTS: May be better for those who prefer a variety of question types and a face-to-face speaking test. It is widely accepted in the UK, Europe, Canada, Australia, and other regions.
Consider your personal strengths and the acceptance of the test by your target institutions before making a decision.
TOEFL: Scores range from 0 to 120. Each section (Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing) is scored out of 30 points.
IELTS: Scores range from 0 to 9. Each section (Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing) receives a band score, and the overall band score is the average of these four scores.
The TOEFL exam is ideal for non-native English speakers who plan to study at an institution where English is the medium of instruction, particularly in the USA. It is also useful for those seeking scholarships or visas for English-speaking countries. Additionally, professionals looking to advance their careers in English-speaking environments may benefit from taking the TOEFL.
TOEFL is designed for individuals who need to demonstrate their English language proficiency for academic purposes. This includes:
Students applying to universities and colleges in English-speaking countries, especially in the USA.
Scholarship applicants.
Visa applicants for English-speaking countries.
Professionals seeking certification or licensure in English-speaking countries.
Individuals applying for employment where English proficiency is required.
TOEFL can be challenging for several reasons:
Academic Focus: The test uses academic English and scenarios that can be difficult for those unfamiliar with university-level vocabulary and concepts.
Length: The test duration is approximately four hours, which can be exhausting.
Multiple-Choice Format: The reading and listening sections are entirely multiple-choice, which requires precise comprehension skills.
Speaking Section: The speaking tasks are recorded and evaluated later, which can be intimidating for some test-takers.
Integrated Tasks: The writing and speaking sections include integrated tasks that require test-takers to combine multiple skills, such as listening to a lecture and then writing or speaking about it.
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