IELTS Vs. TOEFL: Which One To Choose And Why?
IELTS Vs TOEFL: A Quick Introduction
The International English Language Testing System, mostly referred to as IELTS, is an English proficiency test conducted by the British Council, IDP Education Australia and Cambridge Assessment English to grant them eligibility to migrate to a foreign country to study, work or permanently shift.
The Test of English as a Foreign Language, known as TOEFL, is also an international English proficiency test conducted by ETS (Educational Testing Service) evaluating the applicants to set them eligible for their academic or job pursuits in a foreign country or particularly in English-speaking countries.
Both IELTS and TOEFL assess the applicants on the basis of their English listening, reading, writing, and speaking skills. While there is no big difference between IELTS and TOEFL, however, some of the small differences lie in the following parameters:
- Mode of the exam
- Duration of the exam
- Marking scheme of the exam
- Curriculum of the exam, etc.
SheikhMehreen
Sep 10 2023
10 Min
Basic Difference Between IELTS Or TOEFL
Even though both the tests serve somewhat the same purpose, here are some basic differences between IELTS vs TOEFL:
- Favouring Countries: TOEFL is more favoured by American universities and colleges whereas IELTS is more accepted in the UK and European countries.
- Core Purpose: While IELTS with its two testing parts i.e., academic module and general training module meets two different objectives of academic setting and work or immigration purposes respectively, TOEFL is only used for educational purposes.
- Scoring Scheme: TOEFL Score scale ranges from 0 to 120 with each section holding a score range of 0 - 30. Whereas IELTS don’t have a point system of valuation but a band that ranges from 0 to 9 with each section holding a score range of 0 - 40 which is later converted into a band score.
- Human Intervention: There is no human contact in the TOEFL exam, but IELTS do require an examiner that evaluates the speaking capability of the candidate.
Also Read: GMAT vs. GRE: Which Test You Should Choose?
IELTS Format Vs TOEFL Format
Here’s the format of the IELTS vs TOEFL exam format:
IELTS Vs TOEFL: Score Comparison
IELTS
Which One Is Easier: IELTS And TOEFL
IELTS and TOEFL somewhat differ in a few basic parameters but are overall similar in terms of the assessment of the candidates as far as the curriculum and sections are concerned. The difficulty level of the exam is subjective in nature but many test-takers are of the opinion that IELTS is slightly easier than the TOEFL, and a large part of this conclusion is based on the reading section of both exams that portray different levels of difficulties.
Which Test Is Most Widely Accepted By Universities: IELTS Or TOEFL
While both IELTS and TOEFL are widely recognised English proficiency tests and examine the candidates on similar grounds, TOEFL has a slightly larger number of accepting universities and countries throughout the world. But this should not be the only criteria for you to decide on IELTS OR TOEFL which is better, you must conduct thorough research on your preferred country’s and institution’s language requirements.
Also Read: The Best Countries To Study Abroad
Some Preparation Tips To Prepare For IELTS Or TOEFL
Since both the tests have a similar kind of curriculum and sections, the following tips would be of help to both of the test-takers:
- Make sure you are well aware of the exam format, it will help you attempt the exam in a relaxed manner.
- Read the syllabus thoroughly and devise a learning strategy.
- Take as many mock tests as you can, it will instil confidence in you and boost your self-assurance.
- Read newspapers, articles and blogs to improve your comprehension and reading skills.
- Go through some videos and websites or books that teach new phrases, words etc. to improve your vocabulary.
- Listen to English podcasts, or watch series to build on your listening skills.
- Practice and engage in discussions conducted in the English language to develop further speaking skills.
Some Exam Day Tips For IELTS & TOEFL
Students only have to carry an acceptable ID, which is a passport for Indian students. The passport must be -
- An original document (photocopies not allowed)
- Valid (expired documents are not allowed)
- Have your full name mentioned in it as mentioned during registration
- Have your signature
Conclusion - Make A Wise Decision By Choosing The Right Option For You
Whether you are looking for an IELTS TOEFL comparison or trying to find which is easier TOEFL or IELTS, it all narrows down to your intention of going and study abroad. If you are looking to settle down or seek job opportunities, IELTS is your ideal test but if you are setting out for your academic pursuits then both options are available to you.
The intention of moving abroad followed by the eligibility criterion set by the respective country or organization for you to get in should be your deciding factor of which exam to prefer over other. However, if both the IELTS or TOEFL test scores are accepted, then you may consider the above given factors to reach a conclusion.
You can also sign up for career counseling that will help you navigate through the study abroad opportunities and throw some light on some unknown aspects.
FAQ
TOEFL is accepted mostly in American colleges and universities whereas IELTS is preferred by the UK and other European countries. It also depends on the college or university you are applying to. If it accepts both, then there are a few factors that you might consider to decide which test to take like:
- Mode of Examination.
- Examination Fee.
- Date and Timing of the test.
- Duration of the test.
Both of the English proficiency tests are widely recognised and make applicants eligible for their respective pursuits. While IELTS is accepted across 140 countries by more than 11,500 organizations, TOEFL too has made its mark across 160 countries and is accepted by more than 12,000 universities worldwide.
Yes, many test-takers based on the comparison of the reading section of both the exams consider TOEFL harder than IELTS.
Yes, you may be eligible to study abroad without IELTS or TOEFL. Some universities and countries do not require a language proficiency test and accept applications from international students to pursue their education.
Although it purely depends on one’s competence and English language proficiency, TOEFL is considered slightly tougher than IELTS.
The TOEFL exam fees in India is ₹16,900 INR.
IELTS score is valid for 2 years, after then you have to reappear for the test.
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