What is the difference between IELTS and TOEFL?

The TOEFL offers only academic English; the IELTS offers an academic option as well as a general test; this is generally the preferred test for immigration purposes to the UK and Canada. The IELTS academic test and the TOEFL compared to the IELTS general test are both more difficult, but they are usually the only options if you want to study at any level higher than secondary school. No matter which test you take, be aware that the scores all expire 2 years after your test date. read less

While TOEFL is conducted by ETS, a nonprofit organization in the US, IELTS is jointly managed by the British Council, University of Cambridge, and IELTS Australia.One of the biggest differences between IELTS and TOEFL is that while IELTS assesses proficiency in British English, TOEFL measures proficiency in US English. Though both assess abilities in reading, writing, speaking, and listening, formats of the two tests are quite different. IELTS(0-9 Band;Independent tasks(L,R,W,S). TOEFL(120;Integrated tasks(ex:L+R+W)) IELTS and TOEFL favour different modes of thought and problem solving. As TOEFL is primarily multiple choice, students will need to be able to think analytically to weigh up the differences between their options. IELTS requires more use of memory, and draws on broader comprehension skills as students are faced with different question styles. read less

Both are language proficiency tests.One difference is the method because Toefl is internet based (IBT) other one is paper based.Now the question is which one should you choose? It entirely depends on your requirement, and requirement depends on the country you want to go.Ielts is widely accepted test as compared to Toefl and one new entrant in this field is PTE Academic which is also internet based. read less

It really boils down to why you are considering giving either of the exam? If its for academic purpose, then the next relevant question would be to which country do you intend to apply for admissions. TOEFL is more popular with the American Universities/Colleges (although IELTS is also accepted by a lot of them), while the IELTS has more global acceptability (US, Canada, Europe, Australia, NZ, etc.). If the purpose behind taking the test is for immigration, then you have no choice but to take the IELTS. read less

Both are English language tests. IELTS is more of British English while TOEFL is American English. The paper patterns are completely different. The test methodology and grading systems are also different. IELTS is on a band of 9 while TOEFL is out of 120. The sections are the same but the way the candidates are asked questions is quite different. TOEFL is an internet based test while IELTS is a paper based test read less

Both are international standardized tests which assess a person’s English proficiency. The result of both the tests is valid for 2years. TOEFL is “Test Of English As A Foreign Language” and it is an Internet based test (iBT) and IELTS is “International English Language Testing System” which is a paper based test. One can get a highest possible score of 120 in TOEFL, but in IELTS one gets a band score from 0-9. In TOEFL, American accent is used, however, in IELTS a range of accents are used. read less

IELTS (International English Language Testing System) and TOEFL(Test of English as a Foreign Language) are English language proficiency tests. These tests serve as measures to test English language skills in the areas of Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking. IELTS is a paper-based test, whereas TOEFL is a computer-based test. As regards formats, the differences are as follows: Skill IELTS TOEFL Listening 4 sections, 40 questions, 40 minutes 6 - 9 talks/lectures, 34-51 questions, 60-90 minutes Reading 3 passages, 40 questions, 60 minutes 3-4 passages, 36-56 question, 60 - 80 minutes Writing 2 tasks, 60 minutes 2 tasks, 50 minutes Speaking 3 parts, 14 minutes interview 6 questions, 20 minutes, answers to be recorded Besides the structural differences, there are differences depending on the country, where you wish to pursue your higher education. USA institutions, even though they have begun accepting IELTS scores, would prefer TOEFL scores. UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and institutions of Europe would prefer IELTS scores. In terms of testing times, IELTS will have Listening, Reading, and Writing on the same day. Speaking is conducted either till 3 days prior or till 3 days after L/R/W test day. TOEFL will have all sections conducted in a single sitting. In terms of ease of preparation, generally students find it easier to prepare for IELTS as it is paper-based. In TOEFL, as it is computer-based, students tend to find facing computer screen for 3.5-4 hours stressful and hence maintaining concentration becomes difficult. Having explained few salient differences, I would cautiously advise you to take a call based on your needs and preferences. Because, you are the best judge of your own-self. You decide what is best for you and act accordingly. What may be best for others, may not be best for you, and what may be best for you, may not be best for others. Hence, take informed decisions. All the best! read less