TOEFL vs IELTS: Which one is better?
English proficiency exam scores are required for university applications to English-speaking nations. All non-native English speakers must take these exams in order to finish their applications. The most well-known are IELTS and TOEFL. Both examine candidates’ reading, writing, listening, and speaking abilities, but in distinct ways. Are you wondering why you should choose IELTS over TOEFL or vice versa? If so, check out this informative blog about IELTS vs TOEFL!
IELTS vs TOEFL
The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a prestigious language competency test taken by candidates seeking foreign education or for occupational purposes. It is recognized in 140 countries. IELTS comes in two varieties: IELTS General Training (for working professionals/immigration) and IELTS Academic (for education purposes).
TOEFL on the other hand is an acronym for the Test of English Language as a Foreign Language, which is a popular language competency test taken by students who want to study abroad. The exam emphasizes applicants’ abilities to speak in classroom-based English and is hence accepted in approximately 130 countries.
IELTS vs TOEFL- Format
The main differentiation is in the structure of the questions, with TOEFL consisting of MCQs and IELTS asking you to answer questions in a variety of formats such as fill-in-the-blanks, short responses, and so on. Along with this, one notable difference is the length of both exams. IELTS must be completed in 2 hours and 45 minutes, but TOEFL must be completed in 4 hours.
IELTS is accessible in two variants: General Training and Academic; applicants can select their version test based on the objective of their visit. TOEFL only offers one sort of exam, which is typically chosen by students enrolled in a program overseas. IELTS requires applicants to demonstrate their creative thinking abilities and comprehension capabilities, whereas TOEFL analyses your analytical thinking and how well you can assess their many possibilities.
IELTS Test Format
| Sections | Duration | Number of Tasks/Activities |
| Listening | 30 minutes | 4 |
| Reading | 60 minutes | 3 |
| Writing | 60 minutes | 2 |
| Speaking | 11-15 minutes | 3 |
| Total | 2 hours 45 minutes |
TOEFL Test Format
| Sections | Scoring | Duration | Number of Questions |
| Reading | 0-30 | 60-80 minutes | 36-56 |
| Listening | 0-30 | 60-90 minutes | 34-51 |
| Speaking | 0-30 | 20 minutes | 34-51 |
| Writing | 0-30 | 50 minutes | 2 Tasks |
| Total | 0-120 | 4 hours |
IELTS vs TOEFL Writing Section
You will be asked to answer two writing questions while taking the IELTS exam. First, you will have to explain the facts presented in the form of a diagram, table chart, or other visual aid. In the second, you must write 200-250 words about an argument or a certain point of view.
If you take the TOEFL exam, you will have to write a five-paragraph essay in 300-350 words. For the second question, you will have to take notes from a specified material and write a response in 150-225 words.
IELTS vs TOEFL Speaking Section
The TOEFL speaking assessment will be recorded using a microphone and sent to the examiners, but the IELTS speaking test will be a face-to-face test for all students. The TOEFL test would last 20 minutes. IELTS would take no more than 10-15 minutes. The ability to attempt a speaking test before the other tests in IELTS is a significant difference between TOEFL and IELTS, whereas there is no such choice in TOEFL.
IELTS vs TOEFL Reading Section
Both exams’ reading tests will comprise texts along the lines of those they would encounter in their studies. TOEFL will give you 3-5 reading questions to answer in 20 minutes. This section of the IELTS test will have three questions, and applicants will be asked to answer questions in a variety of styles such as gap-filling, short answers, and so on.
IELTS vs TOEFL Listening Sections
Both exams’ Listening skill tests are extremely different from one another. Students can answer questions on the IELTS test while listening to the recording. There will be a variety of long and short questions. The TOEFL test, on the other hand, will be based on classroom lectures that applicants will take notes on while listening to the audio. In the TOEFL listening component, students must complete MCQs in 40-60 minutes.
Which one to choose?
To begin, find out which tests the institutions you are interested in will accept. If you don’t have a time limitation, consider which test is best for you between IELTS and TOEFL. If you’re looking for a unique way to express yourself, here’s your chance. IELTS is a shorter, possibly more challenging exam with a wider range of questions and tasks, as well as a direct connection with an examiner. TOEFL exams cost between $200 and $325 CAD, while IELTS exams cost between $260 and $390 CAD. If you’re on a tight budget, this could be an issue. Finally, the best exam for you is a matter of personal preference. Each exam is approved by hundreds of institutions around the world, and test dates are accessible all year.
Whether you choose TOEFL or IELTS, both tests are widely recognized and accepted globally. So, focus on selecting the test that aligns with your strengths, allows you to showcase your language skills effectively, and meets the requirements of your desired academic or professional path. With diligent preparation and the right mindset, you can excel in either test and take a significant step toward your language proficiency goals. Good luck on your language journey! Like this post? Don’t forget to check out our other short stories in our Quick Read section