Naziruddin Syed

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!

When is the right time to appear in SAT for getting into an undergraduate course in a reputed global university that accepts SAT scores? I am asking in which class a student should ideally be when appearing in SAT? How much time will it approximately need to prepare (accordingly)?

Hi Nipun, The preparation for SAT depends on many factors such as your present engagements in terms of academic and non-academic activities, your present level of knowledge of mathematics, your reading abilities, your knowledge of grammar and conventions of writing, and how much time you can devote per day for SAT studies. SAT test happens in the months of January, May, June, October, November and December. Besides, to meet the deadlines of top USA institutions, you should ideally appear for SAT in the month of October or latest by November prior to the year in which you want to start your studies in USA. For example, If you want to start your studies in September 2018, you must give your SAT by November 2017 for top institutions of USA.So there are various factors that you need to consider. Some actors are broad-based and some factors are very individualistic. My advice to you will be to start your SAT studies at least 6 months prior to your SAT dates. Also keep in mind that, if you don't get scores as per your expectations, you should have time for reappearing as well as meeting admissions deadline of top USA institutions.