When it comes to standardized English language testing, two big names are IELTS and TOEFL. Both assessments are used by educational institutions and employers worldwide as a measure of English proficiency.
So, which one should you take? English speaker, you’ll almost always be required to sit an English language proficiency test as part of your application to study abroad at English-speaking universities. The two most accepted English language tests worldwide are the International English Language Test System (IELTS) and the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL).
The first step is to understand the different formats of each test. For example, the IELTS is a paper-based test, while the TOEFL is an online test. The next step is to understand the content of each test. For example, the IELTS focuses on general English skills, such as reading, writing, listening and speaking.
On the other hand, the TOEFL emphasizes English academic skills, such as reading textbooks and lectures, writing essays, and participating in class discussions. So which is better for you?
IELTS vs TOEFL: Which Should You Take?
What is IELTS?
IELTS and TOEFL are two of the most popular English language proficiency exams. Though they are both designed to test your English ability, they differ in a few ways. Here is a breakdown of each test to decide which one is right for you.
The IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is jointly managed by Cambridge English Language Assessment, the British Council, and IDP Education Australia. It is an academic English language proficiency exam that has been around for over 25 years. The IELTS is accepted by over 9,000 organizations worldwide, including universities, colleges, and immigration agencies.
The TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is a test created and administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS). It is the most widely accepted English language proficiency exam in the world.
What is TOEFL?
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is an exam that tests your English language skills. It is required for students who want to study at a university where English is the primary language of instruction. There are two versions of the TOEFL: the paper-based test and the internet-based test.
The IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is also an English language proficiency exam, but it is not specific to universities.
It is accepted by over 8,000 organizations worldwide, including schools, employers, and governments. The IELTS is available in two formats: paper-based and computer-delivered. So which should you take? The TOEFL or the IELTS? Well, that depends on your needs and your level of English proficiency.
General differences
Understanding the differences between the IELTS and TOEFL exams is essential before deciding which one to take. The IELTS tests your ability to use English in an academic setting. At the same time, the TOEFL is a test of your ability to use English in an educational and professional environment.
The IELTS has four sections: listening, reading, writing, and speaking. The TOEFL has six areas: reading, listening, speaking, writing, structure and vocabulary, and testing strategies. The IELTS is scored on a band scale from 1-to 9, with 9 being the highest score possible. The TOEFL is scored on a scale from 0-to 120, with 120 being the highest score possible. The IELTS takes 2 hours and 45 minutes to complete.
Exam Structures
Speaking
There are two main English language proficiency tests: the IELTS and TOEFL. Both tests have pros and cons, but which one should you take?
The IELTS is more widely accepted than the TOEFL, especially in Europe and Australia. However, the TOEFL is more commonly accepted in the United States. The IELTS is a more difficult test than the TOEFL. It has a higher pass rate but also a higher fail rate. The TOEFL is easier to pass, but it also has a lower pass rate.
The IELTS is more expensive than the TOEFL. The test fee for the IELTS is $265, while the test fee for the TOEFL is $205.
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Writing
When it comes to English language proficiency exams, there are two leading contenders: IELTS and TOEFL. So, which one should you take? The IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is a test of language proficiency recognized around the world.
It is designed for those who want to study or work in an English-speaking environment. The TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is also a famous language proficiency test accepted by many universities and colleges in the United States.
So, which one should you take? The answer depends on your needs and goals. If you are interested in studying in an English-speaking country, you will need to take the IELTS.
Reading
The IELTS and TOEFL academic exams are popular options for students who want to study or work in an English-speaking country. But which one should you take?
The IELTS test your reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills, while the TOEFL is mainly a test of your reading and writing skills. More countries accept the IELTS than the TOEFL, and more universities also get it. However, the TOEFL is often seen as being more complex.
If you’re not sure which test to take or want to improve your score on either test, consider taking a course with a tutor. A tutor can help you identify your weaknesses and tips and techniques for improving your score.
Listening
There is no one perfect test for everyone. Depending on your needs, you may find that the IELTS or TOEFL better suits your purposes. Consider the following factors when making your decision:
- Purpose of Test: The IELTS is often preferred by students looking to study or work in an English-speaking country, while the TOEFL is more popular with students who want to learn in the United States.
- Format: The IELTS is a paper-based test, while the TOEFL is an online test. Some people prefer the flexibility of online tests, while others find paper-based tests more comfortable.
- Scoring: The IELTS scoring range is 0-9, while the TOEFL range is 0-120.
Scoring
There are two main options for taking standardized tests for English language proficiency: the IELTS and the TOEFL. Most universities accept both exams to measure English proficiency, but which one should you take?
The IELTS is an exam created by the British Council and is used in over 140 countries. The TOEFL is an exam created by ETS (Education Testing Service) and is used in over 180 countries.
The IELTS has four sections: listening, reading, writing, and speaking. The TOEFL has three areas: reading, listening and writing. The IELTS scoring range goes from 0-9, while the TOEFL range goes from 0-120.
