IELTS or TOEFL? Which Exam Should You Take to Study Abroad?

Having trouble choosing between IELTS or TOEFL? In this article, we have discussed the differences and similarities between the two popular English proficiency tests which are attempted by thousands and accepted by thousands across the globe.

Clearing an English Language Proficiency Test, like IELTS or TOEFL, is mandatory for candidates who seek admission to universities in countries like the USA, Canada, UK, Australia, New Zealand and more. The two most popular English language tests are IELTS (International English Language Testing System) and TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) which are accepted by top universities all around the world.

Both IELTS and TOEFL are used to evaluate the English reading, writing, speaking and listening skills of the candidates. Conducted at an international level, students can appear for any of these tests at test centres located all around the world.

The scorecards of both TOEFL and IELTS are accepted by thousands of universities and colleges across the world. It depends on the institute and the country if it accepts test scores of either IELTS or TOEFL tests or only one of the two. Both tests serve the same purpose i.e to analyse the English language test proficiency of the candidate. However, it is up to the candidate to decide which two tests, i.e. IELTS vs TOEFL, are the most suitable for them.

This article is a comparative study on IELTS vs TOEFL to help students decide which of the two tests they should apply for.

IELTS Vs TOEFL: A Quick Overview

Here are some fast facts about IELTS vs TOEFL that all potential test-takers should know:

IELTS vs TOEFL: Which Exam Should You Take?

Choosing between IELTS or TOEFL should be a simple process for most students as the first deciding parameter involves the university and countries and their preference between the two tests. However, there can be several other parameters that are unique to you and your needs with regard to studying abroad.

The IELTS and TOEFL exams are conducted by two different organisations. The IELTS exam, first started in 1989, was managed by IDP India and the British Council until last year, when IDP India took full control over the test. On the other hand, TOEFL is conducted by Educational Testing and Assessment Institution, ETS (a non-profit organisation).

Now, to understand which test, i.e. IELTS vs TOEFL, you should take to take admission to some of the top universities in the world, check out the following points:

IELTS vs TOEFL - Exam Acceptance

If you are confused about whether to take the IELTS or TOEFL test then the first thing that you must decide is the country and institute to which you want to take admission. TOEFL is widely accepted by universities in USA. So, if your study abroad destination is the USA then choosing the TOEFL tests will be a good option for you. On the other hand, in most universities in countries like the UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, etc, IELTS scores are popularly accepted over TOEFL results and scores.

However, there are many universities and countries which accept international student applications on the basis of both IELTS and TOEFL scorecards. So, deciding between IELTS or TOEFL must depend on the university and country you want to apply to for your higher studies abroad.

It should be noted that a few countries like Poland do not require IELTS or TOEFL scores for admissions to undergraduate and graduate studies abroad. Here, most universities may be satisfied with having the English language of instruction in the qualifying examination as the only criteria for international student admissions in these countries and universities.

IELTS vs TOEFL - Exam Structure

While comparing differences in IELTS vs TOEFL, a major difference can be seen in the exam pattern of both tests. The exam pattern for IELTS and TOEFL tests includes four sections, i.e. Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening sections. However, the structure varies for IELTS and TOEFL tests. Check out the tables below highlighting the IELTS vs TOEFL exam pattern differences:

Reading and Listening

Speaking

Writing

If you wish to learn more about the exam patterns for IELTS or TOEFL tests, check out the links below for a detailed exam pattern and structure of the two popular tests.

IELTS vs TOEFL - Exam Fees

The TOEFL exam fee usually depends on the location where you are taking the test. Check out the following table to better understand the fee differences between and IELTS and TOEFL exams.

As depicted in the table above, one of the major IELTS vs TOEFL differences can be seen in the exam fees for both the tests. It should be noted that the exam fees for IELTS and TOEFL are subject to change at the discretion of the official exam administrators, i.e. IDP India for IELTS in India and ETS for TOEFL iBT.

IELTS vs TOEFL - Exam Difficulty Level

The difficulty level of both the TOEFL and IELTS is the same. However, most candidates who take the test find the IELTS easier than TOEFL because of the test's structure, pattern, and design. While the TOEFL exam is lengthy and exhaustive, IELTS exams are well structured and organised, as per the feedback received from test-takers.

Having said that, exam difficulty in either IELTS or TOEFL may not be applicable to all candidates. Some test-takers may also find TOEFL exams easier than IELTS exams. The following comparison of the two tests will help individuals decide which among the two, i.e. IELTS vs TOEFL. is easier for them:

• IELTS reading, writing and listening sections are conducted on the same day, while the speaking section can be taken after a gap of 5 to 10 days. So, there is enough time to relax and prepare. On the other hand, all four sections of TOEFL exams are conducted on the same day.

• The IELTS speaking section is a face-to-face interaction between the examiner and the candidate. On the other hand, the TOEFL speaking section is recorded in front of a computer using a microphone. So, the candidate can decide whether they are comfortable taking the test in front of a person or a computer.

These are some of the major differences that can be seen when choosing between IELTS or TOEFL for admissions to top universities abroad. Check out the following lists of universities accepting scores of IELTS or TOEFL, depending on their individual admission policies.

If you are still confused between the two English proficiency tests, i.e. IELTS or TOEFL, then register and connect with our team of highly experienced study abroad counsellors now!

Popular Universities Abroad Accepting IELTS Score

Check the list of universities abroad that accept IELTS Score for admissions:

Popular Universities Abroad Accepting TOEFL Score

Check the list of universities abroad that accept TOEFL Score for admissions:

Note: Students must confirm the English Language Test eligibility criteria for their respective universities before taking either of the two tests.

Once the decision is made, candidates should start preparing for the test. Self-preparation is sufficient for students who have a good command of the English language and clear grammar and basics. Apart from this, all that is required is a good understanding of the structure and pattern of the test and sufficient practice.

You can also check our 'Test Prep'sectionfor any assistance related to IELTS/ TOEFL or any other study abroad entrance exam or write to us at abroad@collegedekho.com for more information.