Selecting the appropriate English language assessment is a critical factor in your study abroad experience. If you’re planning to attend universities in the UK (or anywhere else in the world!), you’ve probably seen the names TOEFL and IELTS pop up – two of the biggest names in English language testing. Both will provide you access to the best education in the world, but which one is right for you and your goals?
When thinking about TOEFL vs IELTS, it’s a lot more than just completing a test – it’s about positioning yourself for success. With over 13,000 institutions accepting TOEFL and over 12,500 organizations accepting IELTS around the world, both have ample merit. However, the format, difficulty, and the way they are accepted by universities vary greatly, and it is important to understand, especially if you plan to study abroad in UK.
Understanding the Fundamentals
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language), owned and delivered by ETS, is delivered computer-based. It tests academic English with American accents and takes about 2 hours to complete.
IELTS (International English Language Testing System), owned and delivered by IDP Education and British Council, is delivered in both paper-based and computer-based formats. It has an in-person speaking component and includes British, Australian, and Canadian accents. The test is about 2 hours and 45 minutes.
Both assess Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking, but delivery methods create distinct experiences that significantly impact performance.
Key Differences: TOEFL vs IELTS
Test Format and Structure
TOEFL is completely computer-based and contains almost all multiple-choice questions in both the Reading and Listening sections. For the Speaking responses, students speak into a microphone, and their responses are scored by both AI and human raters. This digital-based format is ideal for students who are comfortable typing and using technology.
IELTS has the option to take the exam by computer or pencil and paper. They also have various question types such as matching, filling in the gap, labeling a diagram, and true/false- not just multiple choice. The Speaking test consists of a live one-on-one conversation with a certified examiner, which around the context is more interactive.
Scoring Systems
For TOEFL, the total score is based on a 0-120 point system for the entire test, and each section (Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing) is given a score of 0-30. Top UK universities usually want 100-110. IELTS has a series of band scores 0-9, but with half-bands. Typically, UK institutions prefer a score of 6.0-7.5, depending on the level of the program. Undergraduate programs want a score of 6.0-6.5, while postgraduate programs would be requesting a score of 6.5-7.5.
For reference: TOEFL 100 equals IELTS 7.5; TOEFL 80 equals IELTS 6.5.
Duration and Cost
Before we reveal which test is easier for you, let’s have a look at the cost for each test-
- TOEFL: 2 hours, costs INR 16,900
- IELTS: 2 hours 45 minutes, costs INR 17,000-18,000
Both the scores remain valid for two years from the date you take the test.
Which Test is Easier?
Difficulty is highly personal. Close to 80% of test takers find the IELTS to be easier, primarily because the Speaking test is face-to-face and the questions are generally easier to understand.
Select TOEFL when:
- You are a strong test taker on multiple-choice tests.
- You are a very quick and accurate typist on essay questions.
- You are more comfortable with American English accents.
- You would like to do all of the tests without any human interaction.
Select IELTS when:
- You’re better at having a conversation.
- You’re very familiar with various question types.
- You’re more accustomed to any English accent in the United Kingdom, Australia, or Canada.
- You would like to handwrite the essays or have a paper-based assessment.
The biggest difference in perception of difficulty is in the Speaking section. The response recording and lack of human interaction for some test takers in the TOEFL is considered more impersonal. In IELTS, the approach is much more conversational and allows for natural interaction.
Study Abroad in UK: Which Test to Choose?
When there is a study before studying abroad in UK, both tests are universally accepted by all (100%) UK universities. However, IELTS has a definitive edge for many reasons, such as:
Why IELTS for UK:
To begin with, UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) requires IELTS for UKVI (Academic) for visa application processing as a student. Although you can utilize TOEFL for academic admission to a UK institution, you will most likely need IELTS for immigration documents anyway.
Secondly, IELTS uses British English conventions and accents: you’ll be better prepared for the UK classroom and life in the UK by taking an IELTS test.
Third, UK visa authorities prefer IELTS to TOEFL. The UK, and Canada do not accept TOEFL for migration and IELTS is accepted by the migration authorities for Australia, Canada, UK, and New Zealand.
When TOEFL Works:
Importantly, if you have already achieved a strong TOEFL score, and audio is only being utilized for admission to the university (not a visa), most UK institutions will accept that. More well-known institutions, such as Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial College of London, and LSE, all accept TOEFL iBT, but you can expect a minimum score of 100-110.
Global Acceptance Beyond the UK
TOEFL is typically preferred in the United States and generally accepted across Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Europe. IELTS has greater prevalence in the UK, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand, especially with Commonwealth countries and migration applications. For applications to multiple countries, IELTS provides applicants with increased acceptability for both academic and immigration purposes as it is recognized by 12,500+ organizations in 140+ countries.
Making Your Decision: Practical Considerations
Before settling on a test that is best for you, please consider the following:
- Consider how you would like to deliver your response: do you respond better in a typed format or handwritten? Do you prefer human interaction or a computer to be the bearer of news?
- Look closely at the fine print: review the requirements on the target universities’ websites for admissions and their verification requirements while completing.
- Consider your time frame: TOEFL has over 50 test dates a year and results take 4-8 business days. IELTs have 48 testing dates offered annually and results are delivered in 2-13 business days.
- Consider long-term plans: If you plan on studying abroad in the UK with possible work or residency options in the future, IELTS serves a dual purpose of being used for admission and immigration purposes.
- Take the free practice tests: Complete free practice tests of both tests to consider both types of tests before making a decision.
Preparation Strategies
If you’re preparing for the TOEFL, prioritize academic podcasts to hear American English, type essays or long answers while being mindful of the timing, and make sure you’re familiar with American academic English conventions. If you are preparing for the IELTS, keep working on speaking, hopefully with a number of different accents, and if taking the paper version, practice your handwriting!
Academic students who successfully take the test will likely have a dedicated 6-8 weeks of focused preparation using the official materials from ETS (for the TOEFL) or from the British Council (for the IELTS).
Conclusion
When deciding between TOEFL vs IELTS, consider your profile, your destination preferences, and your strengths as a test-taker. For students planning to study abroad in UK, IELTS is more practical for both university use and for your visa application process, but keep in mind that TOEFL is still valid and may match your abilities more closely. Both tests will serve to demonstrate your proficiency in English for a world-class educational experience abroad. The choice is subjective because it is how you, as a test-taker, will be able to demonstrate your abilities. However, if you excel in the test and plan to study abroad, there is no place better than Global Opportunities for your bright career.
