Scores of English proficiency tests are an essential part of university applications to English-speaking countries. All the non-native speakers of the English language have to take these exams to complete their applications. Out of all, the popular ones are IELTS and TOEFL. Both of them assess the candidates’ reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills but in different formats. Are you wondering Why I should opt for ILETS over TOEFL or vice-versa? If yes, then here is an insightful blog on IELTS vs TOEFL!
| Details | IELTS | TOEFL |
| Conducting Body | British Council and IDP Education Ltd. | Educational Testing Services |
| Medium | Online and Offline | Online and Offline |
| Variants | IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training IELTS Indicator | TOEFL iBT |
| Duration | 2 hours 45 minutes | 4 hours |
| Breaks | No breaks during the listening, reading, and writing sections, but the speaking portion can be taken up to a week before or after the rest of the test | A 10-minute break between listening and speaking sections |
| Sections | Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking* | Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking |
| Score Range | 0-9 | 0-120 |
| Average Minimum Score Required by Top Universities | 6.3 | 78 |
| Exam Frequency | 48 times in a year | More than 50 times a year |
| Results Timeline | Results are issued 13 days after the test | Results are issued approximately 10 days after the test |
| Cost | INR 14,700/- | INR 13,780/ (TOEFL iBT) |
What is IELTS?
International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is an esteemed language proficiency test taken by candidates either willing to attain overseas education or for occupational purposes. It is accepted across 140 countries. IELTS has two variants, IELTS General Training (for working professional/ immigration purposes) and IELTS Academic (for education purposes).
Also Read: IELTS vs CAEL: Which is Better to Study?
What is TOEFL?
TOEFL is an acronym used for the Test of English Language as a Foreign Language, a famous language proficiency test frequently opted by students aspiring to study abroad. The exam emphasizes testing the abilities of applicants to communicate in classroom-based English and hence is accepted in around 130 countries.
IELTS vs TOEFL Format
The significant difference lies in the format of the questions as TOEFL comprises MCQs, whereas IELTS would ask you to answer the questions in varied forms like fill in the blanks, short answers, etc. Along with this, one prominent distinction is the duration of both the exams. IELTS has to be completed in 2 hours 45 minutes; on the other hand, it will take you 4 hours to complete TOEFL.
IELTS is available in two variants, i.e., IELTS General Training and IELTS Academic; the applicants can choose their version test as per their purpose of visit. TOEFL offers only one type of exam and is mainly opted by the students enrolled in a program abroad. IELTS demands applicants to showcase their creative thinking abilities and comprehension skills; on the contrary, TOEFL would analyze your analytical thinking and how well you can weigh their different options. Thus, this becomes one of the main features of TOEFL vs IELTS.
Which One to Choose?
To begin, find out which test(s) the institutions you’re interested in will allow. If you don’t have a time constraint, think about which test is ideal for you among IELTS vs TOEFL. TOEFL is lengthier but entirely computer-based, so if you’re worried about your penmanship — or your English while speaking with a native speaker — it could be a good choice for you. IELTS is a shorter, more rigorous examination with a more excellent range of questions and assignments, including direct communication with an examiner. TOEFL costs between $200 and CAD 325, whereas IELTS is somewhat more expensive, ranging between $260 and CAD 390. This may be an issue if you’re on a tight budget. Finally, which exam is best for you is a matter of personal opinion. Hundreds approve each exam of institutions worldwide, and there are test dates available throughout the year.
Final Word:
These are some points of IELTS vs TOEFL; however, if you need more information about IELTS vs TOEFL, contact SOPEDITS now; they will help you. Their highly qualified experts will always help to guide you through your queries.