IELTS VS TOEFL For Study Abroad: Which Should You Take?

IELTS and TOEFL are two exams assessing non-native speakers' English language proficiency. Achieving a sufficient score on either of these tests is often mandatory for admission to universities that use English as the medium of instruction. 

Students must understand the differences between IELTS and TOEFL to make informed choices. The testing methods and scoring systems of IELTS and TOEFL differ significantly. 

This article compares IELTS and TOEFL in-depth to help students make informed decisions.

What Is IELTS?

IELTS is a standardized English proficiency test. There are two types: Academic for higher education and General Training for employment or relocation purposes.

The organizations that conduct IELTS are:

• British Council: A UK organization that offers globally recognized IELTS tests and is committed to high-quality language education and assessment.
• IDP: IELTS Australia: A subsidiary of IDP Education, one of IELTS's co-owners. It provides the test in various locations worldwide and is considered a reputable organization for English language testing.
• Cambridge Assessment English: Part of the University of Cambridge, it contributes to the development and production of the IELTS test materials, ensuring the test remains fair and unbiased for any test taker regardless of nationality, background, gender, lifestyle, or location.

What Is TOEFL?

The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is a standardized test that evaluates the English language ability of non-native speakers wishing to engage in academic pursuits in English-speaking universities. It primarily measures the test taker's reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills.

The TOEFL test is administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS). This organization is responsible for creating, standardizing, and assessing the TOEFL exam, ensuring its wide acceptance by academic institutions globally.

Key Differences Between IELTS and TOEFL

When evaluating IELTS and TOEFL for study abroad, one should consider the differences in testing format, scoring systems, and acceptance by institutions to make an informed decision.

Areas for direct comparison include:

• Test Format: IELTS is paper-based or computer-based, with a live interview for the speaking section. In contrast, TOEFL is entirely computer-based, with speaking done via microphone.
• Scoring System: IELTS uses band scores, and TOEFL uses a numerical scoring system.
• Speaking Section: IELTS involves a face-to-face interview, and TOEFL's speaking tasks are recorded.
• Question Types: IELTS includes a variety of question types, whereas TOEFL is multiple-choice primarily.
• Test Purpose: IELTS has an academic and a general version, while TOEFL is primarily academic.

Listening

IELTS and TOEFL listening components differ in format and difficulty. IELTS includes varied question types and accents, while TOEFL focuses on academic lectures and long conversations in American accents.

Tips for excelling in the listening section for both tests:

1. Practice listening to English in various accents to prepare for the diversity of speakers.
2. Improve note-taking skills to capture critical information during the test.
3. Familiarize yourself with the question types and practice them under timed conditions.

Reading

Both IELTS and TOEFL assess different skills. IELTS has a broader range of question types and includes non-academic material for the General Training version. TOEFL is more academically focused and primarily has multiple-choice questions. Both require understanding complex texts.

Strategies for improving reading comprehension and speed:

• Skim texts first to get a general understanding before answering questions.
• Practice reading academic texts to become familiar with the style and vocabulary.
• Learn to identify key words and phrases that can indicate the answer.

Writing

The IELTS writing section has two tasks. Task 1 is a report based on a chart or letter, and Task 2 is an essay question. The TOEFL writing section includes an integrated and independent task similar to the IELTS Task 2 essay.

Writing improvement tips applicable to both exams:

1. Practice organizing essays with clear introductions, body paragraphs, and conclusions.
2. Develop the ability to write quickly and efficiently within the time limit.
3. Expand your vocabulary to express ideas more effectively.
4. Practice writing about a variety of topics to increase preparedness.
5. Review grammar rules to minimize errors in your writing.

Speaking

The IELTS speaking section includes a face-to-face interview with an examiner, a speaking task, and a discussion. Test-takers in the TOEFL speaking section respond to questions in a microphone for later evaluation.

Effective speaking practices for both IELTS and TOEFL candidates:

• Practice speaking English regularly to build fluency and confidence.
• Record yourself speaking to evaluate your pronunciation and coherence.
• Expand your vocabulary to express a wide range of ideas and opinions.
• Listen to and mimic native speakers to improve your accent and intonation.
• Engage in mock interviews or conversations to simulate the test environment.

IELTS vs TOEFL - What Is the Exams Structure?

Aspect

Listening :

IELTS Academic : Four sections, 40 items, 30 minutes :

IELTS General Training : Four sections, 40 items, 30 minutes

TOEFL IBT : 3-4 lectures (6 questions each), 2-3 conversations (5 questions each), about 60-90 minutes

Reading

IELTS Academic : sections, 40 items, 60 minutes

IELTS General Training : Three sections, 40 items, 60 minutes

TOEFL IBT : 3-4 passages, ten questions each, 54-72 minutes

Writing

IELTS Academic : Two tasks: Describe data (20 min), Essay (40 min)

IELTS General Training : Two tasks: Write a letter (20 min), Essay (40 min)

IELTS General Training : Two tasks: Integrated writing (20 min), Independent writing (30 min)

Speaking

IELTS Academic : Three parts: Interview, Short speech, Discussion, 11-14 minutes

IELTS General Training : Three parts: Interview, Short speech, Discussion, 11-14 minutes

IELTS General Training : Four tasks: 1 independent task, three integrated tasks, 17 minutes

Total Duration

IELTS Academic : 2 hours 45 minutes

IELTS General Training : 2 hours 45 minutes

IELTS General Training : About 3 hours

Question Types

IELTS Academic : Multiple choice, matching, diagram labeling, short answer, etc.

IELTS General Training : Multiple choice, matching, diagram labeling, short answer, etc.

IELTS General Training : Multiple choice, fill in a table, summarize information, etc.

Understanding the structure of these exams is crucial for adequate preparation. Knowing the format, the types of questions you will encounter, and the time allocated for each section helps develop a targeted study plan. It allows focused practice on weaker areas and helps manage time effectively during the exam.

IELTS vs TOEFL: Which has the Best Scoring System?

While IELTS uses a band scale ranging from 0 to 9, TOEFL assigns a numerical score out of 30 for each section, with the total score ranging from 0 to 120. The IELTS band system is more generalized, while the TOEFL score is often perceived as more granular due to the numerical scoring.

To interpret scores from each test:

• Understand that each IELTS band corresponds to a descriptive level of English ability, from 'non-user' (band score 1) to 'expert' (band score 9).
• Recognize that TOEFL scores are divided into ranges that indicate proficiency levels, such as 'high' (22-30), 'intermediate' (15-21), and 'low' (0-14) for each section.
• Check the specific score requirements of the institution or organization you are applying to. 
• Use score comparison tools provided by some institutions or official testing organizations to convert IELTS band scores to TOEFL scores or vice versa when necessary.
• Remember that both tests are widely accepted, but some regions or institutions may have a preference, so choose the test that aligns best with your goals.

TOEFL vs IELTS - What Universities Accept Them?

Both TOEFL and IELTS scores are accepted worldwide as proof of English proficiency for non-native speakers. American universities usually prefer TOEFL, while IELTS is more commonly accepted in the UK, Australia, and other Commonwealth countries. However, many institutions in the US and Canada also accept IELTS, and numerous universities outside the US accept TOEFL scores.

The importance of checking specific university requirements cannot be overstated, as universities may have different test preferences and score requirements that align with either TOEFL or IELTS scoring systems.

Popular Universities Abroad Accepting IELTS Score

• University of Toronto, Canada
• McGill University, Canada
• Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), United States
• Boston University, United States

IELTS is particularly favored in countries where British English is the norm, and this is reflected in the strong preference for IELTS at prestigious UK institutions like Oxford and Cambridge.

Popular Universities Abroad Accepting TOEFL Score

• University of British Columbia, Canada
• University of Alberta, Canada
• Harvard University, United States
• Stanford University, United States

American universities prefer the TOEFL due to its American English orientation. Submitting a TOEFL score offers advantages, such as being familiar with admissions committees, which makes it easier for them to evaluate a candidate's proficiency level.

‍

TOEFL vs IELTS - Exam Fees

Region           

Canada     

IELTS Exam Fees   : Approximately CAD 319                                             

TOEFL Exam Fees  : Approximately CAD 245 - CAD 330

United State                      

IELTS Exam Fees   : Approximately $245 - $255

TOEFL Exam Fees  : Approximately $225

United Kingdom         

 IELTS Exam Fees   :  Approximately £165 - £195                                   

TOEFL Exam Fees  : Approximately £180 - £230

India     

IELTS Exam Fees   :  INR 16,250

TOEFL Exam Fees  : INR 16,900

Australia                    

IELTS Exam Fees   : Approximately AUD 340 - AUD 395         

TOEFL Exam Fees  : Approximately AUD 300 - AUD 375

Europe  

IELTS Exam Fees   : Approximately €220 - €240

TOEFL Exam Fees  : Approximately €245 - €255

Exam costs vary due to fact ors such as location, including local operating costs, logistical expenses, exchange rates, taxes, and fees.

TOEFL vs IELTS: Which is Easier?

Whether TOEFL or IELTS is easier depends on language skills, learning background, and comfort with test formats. IELTS is more accessible for those comfortable with British English and varied question types. At the same time, TOEFL is easier for those familiar with American English. 

Testimonials from past test-takers include:

• "I found the IELTS speaking section easier because it was a real conversation with an examiner, which felt more natural to me." - IELTS Test-taker.
• "The TOEFL was more straightforward for me because it was all multiple-choice, and I could easily navigate the computer-based test format." - TOEFL Test-taker.
• "The writing section of the IELTS felt more challenging due to the variety of tasks, but I preferred the listening section over the TOEFL because of the different accents." - IELTS Test-taker.
• "As a non-native speaker, I found TOEFL's structure very clear, which helped me manage my time during the test." - TOEFL Test-taker.

Which Exam Should You Take?

For individuals seeking to study or work in Canada, the Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP) is often considered alongside traditional English language proficiency tests like IELTS and TOEFL.

When choosing between IELTS and TOEFL exams for studying abroad, consider your strengths and educational destination requirements. 

IELTS is accepted in the UK, Australia, and Commonwealth countries, while American institutions prefer TOEFL. IELTS covers British and American English with a conversational speaking test. At the same time, TOEFL focuses on American English and is computer-based.

To make an informed decision on which exam to take, students should:

1. Verify the requirements of the universities and countries they are applying to.
2. Assess their comfort with speaking English.
3. Consider their proficiency with different accents and varieties of English.
4. Review the test formats: IELTS offers paper-based and computer-based options, while TOEFL is mainly a computer-based test. 
5. Evaluate the timeline for receiving test scores. 

‍

Key Takeaways

• For non-native English speakers, proficiency tests like IELTS and TOEFL are often mandatory for admission to universities where English is the medium of instruction.
• Students must comprehend the differences between IELTS and TOEFL to make informed choices aligning with their strengths and study goals.
• IELTS, offered in Academic and General Training formats, is administered by reputable organizations like the British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia, and Cambridge Assessment English.
• The Educational Testing Service (ETS) administers the TOEFL primarily for academic purposes, ensuring its wide acceptance by academic institutions globally.
• Key differences between IELTS and TOEFL include test format, scoring system, and institution acceptance. 
• Preparation strategies for the listening, reading, writing, and speaking sections are tailored to each test's format and requirements. They focus on active listening, effective reading strategies, structured writing, and speaking fluency.
• While both tests are widely accepted globally, preferences may vary among institutions and regions, underscoring the importance of verifying individual university requirements.
• When choosing between IELTS and TOEFL, consider personal strengths, study destination requirements, comfort with different English varieties, and test format preferences.
• Be mindful of exam fees, which vary by region and factors influencing costs, such as location, operational expenses, and currency exchange rates.
• Perception of test difficulty varies based on language skills, familiarity with test formats, and personal preferences. Testimonials offer insights from past test-takers.

It is recommended that candidates consult with the institutions they are applying to to determine which test they prefer. In addition, they may find it helpful to review detailed comparison articles, attend relevant test-prep workshops, and seek guidance from educational consultants to make an informed decision.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Test is More Widely Accepted by Universities Worldwide?

IELTS is accepted in English-speaking countries by universities, employers, and immigration authorities, with over 12,000 organizations in 140 countries recognizing it.

The TOEFL test, which focuses on American English, is well-regarded by institutions in the United States, especially American universities. Its score range is 0 to 120, and it is popular among students aiming for academic pursuits in the U.S.

Both IELTS & TOEFL are widely accepted, but IELTS has a slight edge in global reach. TOEFL is catching up with technology and iBT. 

Can Test Scores be Transferred Between IELTS and TOEFL?

While no official process directly converts and transfers scores between the IELTS and TOEFL, conversion tables and charts can help individuals estimate their scores in one test based on their performance in the other.

It is important to note that these conversion tables are imperfect and should be used cautiously. The scoring scales for IELTS and TOEFL are inherently different, with IELTS scoring on a band system from 0 to 9 and TOEFL scoring from 0 to 120. As such, conversions are approximate and may not be accepted by all institutions or for official purposes.

How Do IELTS and TOEFL Scores Translate to CEFR Levels?

The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages(CEFR) is a global language proficiency standard with six levels: A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, and C2. It helps educators, employers, and institutions understand learners' language capabilities.

Score Conversion for IELTS to CEFR:

• Below 4.0: Below CEFR A2
• 4.0 - 5.0: CEFR A2 to B1
• 5.0 - 6.5: CEFR B2
• 6.5 - 7.5: CEFR B2 to C1
• 7.5 - 8.5: CEFR C1
• Above 8.5: CEFR C2

Score Conversion for TOEFL to CEFR:

• 0 - 34: Below CEFR A1
• 35 - 45: CEFR A1
• 46 - 59: CEFR A2
• 60 - 78: CEFR B1
• 79 - 95: CEFR B2
• 96 - 110: CEFR C1
• 111 - 120: CEFR C2