IELTS vs TOEFL Which Test Fits Your Study Abroad Goals?

Introduction

If you’re planning on studying abroad, many universities will require you to prove your proficiency in the English language.

The two most popular English language certificates are IELTS and TOEFL, but which is the right option for you? In this guide you can learn more about what is difference between IELTS and TOEFL, including format, question style and scoring method.

Here’s everything you need to know about IELTS and TOEFL.

What is IELTS?

International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is an international English language proficiency test for non-native speakers. It was established in 1980 and is run by the British Council in partnership with IDP Education and Cambridge Assessment English.

An IELTS exam is available in two formats: Academic and General Training. While the General Training format is for immigration or work-related visas, the Academic version is IELTS for study abroad and is accepted by thousands of universities across the world.

Study abroad IELTS assesses skills in speaking, reading, writing and listening in English, rating each section on a scale of 0-9.

What is TOEFL?

Like IELTS, Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) tests a person’s speaking, reading, writing and listening skills in English. These four sections are worth 30 marks each, for a total score of 120.

A TOEFL exam is commonly used by universities in English-speaking countries to test a prospective student’s English language skills, with more than 160 universities across the world accepting TOEFL study abroad.

It is available in two formats: TOEFL, which was established in 1964 as a pen and paper test, and TOEFL iBT, which was established in 2005 as an online test.

Key Differences between IELTS vs TOEFL exam

What is difference between TOEFL and IELTS?

Both IELTS and TOEFL test your proficiency in English before studying abroad. However, there are several key differences between the two that you should be aware of before opting for one.

IELTS vs TOEFL: Exam Pattern and Syllabus

IELTS and TOEFL are both split into four sections focused on writing, speaking, reading and listening. However, the pattern and syllabus of these sections differ.

IELTS

Reading- 60 minutes. Three lengthy texts are taken from authentic sources (magazines, books, newspapers) with 40 questions mainly assessing your ability to understand the crucial points of the text.

Writing- 60 minutes. There are two tasks to complete:

Report writing, where you will be given data and asked to explain or summarize it.

Essay writing: You need to draft an essay responding to an argument or viewpoint.

Listening- 30 minutes. Four speeches by native speakers will be presented and you need to answer questions based on what you hear.

Speaking- 11-14 minutes. This is recorded for assessment in three parts:

General questions concerning yourself, your family or your interests.

General topic: You need to speak about a specific topic for two minutes, with one minute preparation.

Speech-based questions: The examiner will ask you several questions after your speech.

TOEFL

Reading- 35 minutes. You are asked 20 questions based on two passages of about 700 words. Areas include Vocabulary, Information Inference and Rhetorical Purpose.

Writing- 29 minutes. This includes two tasks:

Integrated Writing: Read a passage and listen to a recording before writing your response to those, summarizing the recording and how it connects to the passage.

Writing for an Academic Discussion: State and support your opinion in an online discussion.

Listening- 36 minutes. Answer questions based on lectures or classroom discussions. English accents from native speakers in North America, the UK, Australia or New Zealand are included to represent different accents you will come across abroad.

Speaking- 16 minutes. Split into two tasks:

Independent Speaking: You must respond based on your ideas, viewpoints and experiences.

Integrated Speaking: You must combine your speaking, reading and listening skills to respond effectively.

IELTS vs TOEFL: Scoring System Explained

IELTS and TOEFL use different scoring methods, which can be quite confusing if you’re unfamiliar with them.

In IELTS, the score ranges from 0-9 bands. Generally, a minimum score of 6.0-6.5 bands is required for university acceptance.

TOEFL scores range from 0-120 marks, with a minimum of 90-100 typically required for university acceptance.

However, it is worth noting that the minimum score requirement is decided by individual universities, so can vary. It is important to check your course program to determine entry requirements.

IELTS vs TOEFL: Country-Wise Acceptance

Accepted IELTS and TOEFL scores can vary based on university, course and country.

The following scores are typically accepted for university admission in different countries.

U.S.: 6.0-6.5 IELTS, 90-110 TOEFL.

UK: 6.0-7.0 IELTS, 92-100 TOEFL.

Australia: 5.5-6.5 IELTS, 80-95 TOEFL.

New Zealand: 6.0-6.5 IELTS, 80-90 TOEFL.

France: 6.5-7.0 IELTS, 82-90 TOEFL

Germany: 6.0-6.5 IELTS, 90-100 TOEFL

TOEFL vs IELTS: Which is Easier?

Choosing the easier test can be confusing, as IELTS and TOEFL both share many similarities.

To find the easier option for you, it is important to thoroughly research the exam patterns, syllabus and questions of the two. You can also take mock tests and questions to determine which suits you better.

How to Prepare for IELTS and TOEFL

The time taken to prepare for IELTS and TOEFL varies person to person.

It can take anywhere from one month to one year to fully prepare. Numerous study materials are available online and at certain institutions for both exams including mock tests, sample questions and preparation courses. Taking advantage of these resources will familiarize you with the format before taking the test proper.

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Choosing IELTS or TOEFL

There are several common mistakes at IELTS and TOEFL.

The first mistake is a lack of familiarity with the test formats. For example, IELTS has a face-to-face speaking test, whereas TOEFL’s speaking test is computer based. Understanding the difference between IELTS and TOEFL is crucial, and the best way is to take mock tests and sample questions to familiarize yourself with the different formats.

Secondly, time management is one of the biggest TOEFL and IELTs common mistakes. Both tests have strict time limits, so it’s essential to practice timed tests to ensure that each section is completed.

Finally, poor pronunciation and intonation is one of the most common TOEFL mistakes to avoid. The speaking sections require clear pronunciation, so it’s worth practicing with a native speaker or language tool beforehand.

TOEFLvs IELTS: Which is Better? Howto Choose the Right Test for Your Study Abroad Goals

Choosing between TOFEL or IELTS can be difficult, as the tests share many similarities.

To find the best option for you, it’s important to check your course program to determine which test is required for admission.

You should also familiarize yourself with the tests through sample questions and mock exams, ensuring that you’re fully prepared for the day of the test.

To learn more about which test is right for you, visit BSBI’s programs page or contact us today.