The TOEFL and IELTS are both highly recognized English proficiency exams. The two serve similar purposes, like university admissions and immigration requirements, but differ in structure, scoring, content, and format. This article, TOEFL vs. IELTS: Which Test Is Right for You? will explain each exam and highlight the key differences between them.

TOEFL Highlights

TOEFL, or the Test of English as a Foreign Language, assesses a student’s ability to excel in an academic, English-speaking environment. It is recognized by universities, colleges, and institutions in over 150 countries, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia.

Exam Structure:

The TOEFL exam evaluates four main language skills: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing. Here’s an overview of each section:

1. Reading: This section measures the ability to understand academic passages. Test-takers read and answer questions about main ideas, details, vocabulary, and interpretations. It tests how well students can extract information from written texts.
2. Listening: This section focuses on comprehension of spoken English, often through academic lectures or conversations. Test-takers listen to recordings and respond to questions about the content, understanding, and intent of the speakers.
3. Speaking: Test-takers express their thoughts on familiar subjects and respond to prompts based on reading and listening tasks. It emphasizes the clarity and coherence of spoken English.
4. Writing: This section evaluates essay-writing skills. Test-takers summarize a passage and lecture in a written response and complete an independent task, writing an essay on a given topic using personal viewpoints.

Types of Tests:

• TOEFL iBT (Internet-Based Test): This is the most widely used version taken online at an authorized test center. It takes around 3.5 hours to complete.
• TOEFL PBT (Paper-Based Test): The PBT is less common and available in regions where internet is inaccessible. It excludes a speaking section and is gradually being phased out.

Scoring:

The TOEFL iBT scores range from 0 to 120, with each of the four sections (Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing) contributing 0-30 points. Moreover, there is no defined pass or fail score; each institution sets its own requirements. Typically, a score above 80 is competitive for undergraduate programs. However, more selective programs or graduate admissions may require scores of 90-100 or higher. Thus, understanding the specific requirements of each institution is essential when targeting a desired TOEFL score.

Uses:

TOEFL scores play a crucial role in several areas for international students. First, they are often required for university admissions, as most English-speaking institutions use them to confirm a student’s ability to manage academic coursework. Additionally, scholarships frequently include TOEFL scores in their eligibility criteria, using them to assess the applicant’s language proficiency. Furthermore, visa applications may also require TOEFL scores, as they can serve to confirm a student’s language abilities when applying for visas or job opportunities in English-speaking countries. Together, these aspects highlight the importance of TOEFL for students pursuing opportunities abroad.

Registration and Pricing:

The TOEFL test is available over 60 times per year at authorized testing centers around the world. Additionally, registration is completed online through the official ETS (Educational Testing Service) website, making it convenient. Furthermore, the registration fee varies by country, typically ranging from $180 to $300. Thus, students should check the costs for their location when planning to register.

IELTS Highlights

The IELTS, or International English Language Testing System, is a standardized exam assessing English proficiency in non-native speakers. It is recognized by universities, employers, immigration authorities, and organizations in English-speaking countries, such as the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada.

Exam Structure:

The IELTS exam evaluates four essential language skills: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. Here’s an overview of each section:

1. Listening (30 minutes):
   • Test-takers listen to four (4) recordings featuring native English speakers and answer 40 questions. The recordings include a mix of monologues and conversations. Additionally, the questions assess comprehension skills, such as understanding main ideas, details, speakers’ opinions, and the purpose behind their statements. Thus, this section evaluates how well test-takers interpret spoken English in different contexts.
2. Reading (60 minutes):
   • The Reading section includes 40 questions based on three (3) passages. The types of texts vary depending on the test version, whether Academic or General Training. However, both versions focus on assessing skills like identifying main ideas, skimming for key details, and understanding specific information.
3. Writing (60 minutes):
   • This section has two tasks, each with a unique focus. First, Task 1 requires test-takers to summarize, describe, or explain visual information, such as a chart or graph in the Academic test, or write a letter in the General Training test. Next, Task 2 involves writing an essay in response to a given argument, point of view, or problem. Together, these tasks assess the ability to express ideas clearly and respond to various written prompts.
4. Speaking (11-14 minutes):
   • This section involves a face-to-face interview with a certified examiner, divided into three parts. First, in Part 1, the examiner asks questions on familiar topics like hobbies, work, or family. Next, Part 2 requires test-takers to give a short talk on a provided topic, with one minute to prepare and up to two minutes to speak. Finally, Part 3 includes a discussion with the examiner, focusing on more abstract issues related to the Part 2 topic.

Types of IELTS Tests:

• IELTS Academic: This version is designed for those who want to study at the undergraduate or postgraduate level or seek professional registration in an English-speaking country.
• IELTS General Training: This version is for those planning to migrate to an English-speaking country for work or immigration or for those applying for secondary education or training programs.

Scoring:

The IELTS is scored on a band scale ranging from 1 to 9, with each band representing a different level of English proficiency. For instance, Band 1 indicates a non-user, while Band 5 refers to a modest user, and Band 7 describes a good user. Band 9 represents an expert user. Additionally, each of the four sections—Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking—is scored individually. The overall score is then calculated as an average of these four scores, rounded to the nearest half band.

Uses:

The IELTS exam serves multiple purposes for individuals seeking opportunities in English-speaking countries. For university admissions, many institutions, especially in the UK, Australia, and Canada, require IELTS Academic scores to evaluate a student’s readiness for academic studies. Additionally, the IELTS General Training test is frequently used for visa and immigration processes, particularly in countries like Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Furthermore, some employers rely on IELTS scores to ensure that candidates possess the necessary language skills for their job position. These varied uses make IELTS a versatile and essential tool for those pursuing professional or immigration goals.

Registration and Pricing:

The IELTS is available throughout the year at numerous test centers worldwide, allowing candidates to select a convenient date and location. Additionally, test-takers can choose between taking the IELTS on paper or on a computer, although the Speaking section always occurs in person with an examiner. For registration, candidates complete the process online through the official IELTS website. Furthermore, the cost of the test varies by location, typically ranging from $215 to $250.

Key Differences between TOEFL & IELTS

What you came here for! Understanding these differences will help you make a well-informed decision.

1. Format:
   • TOEFL: Primarily internet-based, simulates academic scenarios similar to U.S. university settings.
   • IELTS: Offers both Academic and General Training versions, suitable for a broader range of purposes such as employment.
2. Language Focus:
   • TOEFL: Focuses on American English, making it ideal for students applying to U.S. institutions.
   • IELTS: Uses a variety of English accents, offering a more global perspective.
3. Speaking Section:
   • TOEFL: Requires test-takers to record their responses via computer.
   • IELTS: Conducted as a face-to-face interview with an examiner, which can feel more personal but potentially more intimidating.
4. Test Format:
   • TOEFL: Available only as a computer-based exam.
   • IELTS: Offers both paper-based and computer-based options, providing more flexibility.
5. Scoring System:
   • TOEFL: Scores range from 0 to 120.
   • IELTS: Uses a band scale ranging from 1 to 9.
6. Best for:
   • TOEFL: Ideal for students seeking admission to U.S. universities.
   • IELTS: Suitable for both academic purposes and general immigration needs.

The choice between the two exams often depends on personal preference, familiarity with test formats, and specific requirements.

Is the TOEFL harder than the IELTS?

The difficulty of the TOEFL versus the IELTS largely depends on a test-taker’s strengths and preferences. The TOEFL, often considered more challenging by some, emphasizes academic English, using scenarios that simulate university settings. It includes listening to lengthy lectures and reading passages similar to a college curriculum. For those comfortable with American English and academic-style questions, the TOEFL may feel more approachable. However, it is entirely computer-based, including the Speaking section, where responses are recorded and submitted digitally.

In contrast, the IELTS is often seen as more accessible for those familiar with various English accents, such as British, Australian, and American. The Speaking section is conducted face-to-face with an examiner, which can feel more natural for those who prefer direct interaction. Moreover, the IELTS offers a broader range of question types, including fill-in-the-blanks and matching, which some test-takers find less repetitive compared to the more uniform style of TOEFL questions.

Overall, the perceived difficulty of each test varies based on a person’s familiarity with the test format, comfort with different accents, and preference for interactive or digital communication. Those who excel in structured, academic contexts may find the TOEFL manageable, while individuals who appreciate a variety of accents and a personal interview setting may prefer the IELTS.

How long will it take me to prepare for the TOEFL/IELTS?

The time needed to prepare for the TOEFL or IELTS depends on your current English proficiency and target score. If you’re a beginner or lower-intermediate, it may take 3 to 6 months to build a strong foundation. For intermediate learners, focusing on 1 to 3 months of study can be sufficient. Meanwhile, advanced speakers might need only 1 month to familiarize themselves with the test format.

Additionally, aim for 2 to 3 hours of study per day and regularly take practice tests to monitor progress and pinpoint areas for improvement. Adjusting your study plan based on your strengths and weaknesses ensures effective preparation.

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