IELTS vs. TOEFL: What’s the difference and which should you choose?

In today’s competitive world, higher education is becoming increasingly important. While many students prefer to pursue higher education in their native country, others choose to study abroad. To gain admission to a college abroad, students need to take English proficiency tests. They have two options: IELTS or TOEFL. It can sometimes be confusing for students to decide which one to choose.Both tests are accepted in almost all countries, but students often ask, “Which one is better for them?” In this article, we will explore what IELTS and TOEFL are and how they differ from each other.

IELTS vs TOFEL

IELTS (test format):The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is one of the most widely accepted English language proficiency examinations worldwide. Candidates take the IELTS not only for studying abroad but also for migration and work purposes. According to available information, IELTS is recognized by more than 11,500 organizations around the globe. The test evaluates how well a candidate, whose first language is not English, can speak, write, and understand English.
The examination covers four skills: listening, reading, writing, and speaking. Once a candidate has taken the exam, the result remains valid for two years. Although succeeding in the IELTS is challenging, it can be achieved with the right strategy.
TOEFL (test format):The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is the premier English-language test for university study, work, and immigration. TOEFL is accepted by more than 11,000 universities in over 150 countries. The TOEFL iBT test helps students stand out by demonstrating their English proficiency and readiness for academic success. It measures academic English skills as they are used in the classroom, so universities can assess a candidate’s preparedness.
The examination consists of four sections: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing. It includes tasks that integrate these four skills.
Comparison of Test Durations and Section Times

Speaking Section
While the reading, listening, and writing sections of both exams are quite similar, the major difference lies in the speaking section. In the TOEFL speaking section, candidates speak into a microphone in a room with other test-takers. In contrast, IELTS candidates have a face-to-face interaction with an examiner in a private room. If you are more comfortable speaking into a microphone, TOEFL may be the better choice for you; if you prefer face-to-face interaction, IELTS might be preferable.
Types of Questions
TOEFL primarily features multiple-choice questions, whereas IELTS offers a greater variety in question types and answer formats.
Scoring System
Another difference is in the scoring. TOEFL test-takers receive four scaled section scores and a total score out of 120. Each section is scored on a scale of 0-30, and the four section scores are combined for a total score ranging from 0-120.
In contrast, IELTS scores range from 1 to 9 for each section—Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking. The overall band score is the average of these individual scores, rounded up or down to the nearest 0.5.

Which one should students choose?

University Requirement: Some universities and countries have a preference for either IELTS or TOEFL. It’s important to verify the requirements of the universities or programs to which the student is applying.
Test format and personal preference: IELTS includes a face-to-face speaking test with an examiner, which some students might find more natural and comfortable. The IELTS test features a range of question types and tasks, which might be better suited for those who prefer varied question formats. TOEFL uses a computer-based speaking test where students speak into a microphone. This may be preferable for students who are comfortable with computer-based tasks.TOEFL tasks often integrate multiple skills, which might be beneficial for students who excel in combining listening, reading, and writing skills.