When it comes to proving your English language skills for studying, working, or migrating abroad, two of the most trusted exams are IELTS and TOEFL. Both tests are widely recognized by universities, employers, and immigration departments around the world. However, they differ in format, scoring, and testing style, which can make choosing between them a bit confusing.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through a detailed comparison of IELTS vs TOEFL to help you clearly understand which test aligns better with your goals and personal strengths.
What is IELTS?
IELTS stands for the International English Language Testing System. It is one of the most popular English proficiency exams, trusted by organizations around the world for purposes like study, work, and migration. The IELTS test is conducted by IDP Education and is accepted by universities, employers, and immigration authorities in countries such as the UK, Australia, Canada, Europe, New Zealand, and now increasingly even in the USA. IELTS offers two types of tests — Academic, for those applying for higher education, and General Training, for work experience or migration purposes. One unique feature of IELTS is its Speaking section, where candidates have a face-to-face interview with an examiner, providing a real-world speaking experience.
What is TOEFL?
TOEFL stands for the Test of English as a Foreign Language. It is a leading English proficiency test mainly designed for students who wish to study abroad at universities and colleges where English is the language of instruction. Conducted by ETS (Educational Testing Service), TOEFL scores are widely accepted in the USA, Canada, Europe, and many parts of Asia. The most common version is the TOEFL iBT (Internet-Based Test), which is taken online. Unlike IELTS, the Speaking section in TOEFL is computer-recorded, where you speak into a microphone instead of interacting with a live examiner. TOEFL is especially popular among students aiming for academic admission in American and Canadian universities.
Key Differences Between IELTS and TOEFL
Here are the key differences between IELTS and TOEFL that will help you understand the basic difference between the both.
- Purpose:
- IELTS – Suitable for study, work, and migration.
- TOEFL – Mainly focused on academic study.
- Mode of Test:
- IELTS – Available in paper-based and computer-based formats.
- TOEFL – Primarily computer-based (TOEFL iBT).
- Speaking Section:
- IELTS – Face-to-face interview with a human examiner.
- TOEFL – Recorded speaking tasks using a microphone.
- Scoring System:
- IELTS – Band score from 0 to 9.
- TOEFL – Total score out of 120.
- Accent and English Style:
- IELTS – Focuses on British, Australian, and other global English accents.
- TOEFL – Primarily features American English accents.
- Writing Style:
- IELTS – Task-based writing, including essays and letter/report writing.
- TOEFL – Focuses on academic essays and integrated writing tasks.
IELTS vs TOEFL: Section-wise Comparison
a) Listening Section
- IELTS Listening:
In the IELTS Listening test, you will hear a variety of accents, including British, Australian, and New Zealand English. The recordings come from everyday conversations, academic discussions, and social situations. This section tests your ability to understand different styles of spoken English in real-life settings. - TOEFL Listening:
The TOEFL Listening section mainly features American English accents. You will listen to university lectures, classroom discussions, and everyday conversations. It focuses more on academic language, making it ideal for students planning to study in North American universities.
b) Reading Section
- IELTS Reading:
The IELTS Reading test includes a mix of short and long passages. The topics can range from everyday situations to general interest articles. In the Academic IELTS, passages are taken from books, magazines, and newspapers, while the General IELTS focuses on social survival and workplace contexts. - TOEFL Reading:
In TOEFL, the reading passages are academic and research-focused. They are often excerpts from university textbooks or scholarly articles. This section tests your ability to understand complex ideas, academic arguments, and scientific reasoning.
c) Writing Section
- IELTS Writing:
IELTS Writing varies depending on the test type. In the General Training IELTS, candidates write a letter (formal, semi-formal, or informal) and an essay. In the Academic IELTS, the first task is to analyze a graph, table, or diagram, followed by writing an essay on a given topic. - TOEFL Writing:
TOEFL Writing includes two tasks: an integrated task and an independent essay. The integrated task requires you to read a short academic text and listen to a lecture, then write a summary connecting both. The independent task asks you to express an opinion on a given topic in essay format.
d) Speaking Section
- IELTS Speaking:
In IELTS, the Speaking section is a face-to-face interview with a certified examiner. The interview has three parts: a personal introduction, a long turn where you speak about a topic, and a two-way discussion. It feels like a natural conversation, testing your ability to communicate in real-world English. - TOEFL Speaking:
In TOEFL, the Speaking section is done through a microphone. Your responses are recorded and evaluated later by examiners. You will answer questions about familiar topics and summarize information from reading and listening tasks. It’s less personal compared to the IELTS interview, but ideal for those comfortable with digital testing.
Which Test is Easier: IELTS or TOEFL?
When it comes to deciding whether IELTS or TOEFL is easier, it really depends on your personal strengths and language background. Many students find IELTS easier if they are familiar with British English, different international accents, and prefer a face-to-face speaking interview. On the other hand, TOEFL may feel easier for candidates who are comfortable with American English, academic reading and listening, and typing essays on a computer. If you enjoy speaking into a microphone and prefer a fully digital experience, TOEFL might be a better fit. Understanding your comfort with different English styles and test formats will help you choose the test that suits you best.
IELTS vs TOEFL: Scoring System Explained
Understanding the scoring system is important when comparing IELTS vs TOEFL. Both tests measure your English skills, but they do it differently.
- IELTS Scoring:
In IELTS, you receive a band score between 0 and 9 for each section (Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking). Your overall band score is the average of the four section scores, rounded to the nearest half or whole band. For example, you might get an overall score of 6.5 or 7.0. - TOEFL Scoring:
In TOEFL, each section (Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing) is scored out of 30 points, making a total score of 120. Your final score is the sum of all four section scores. Universities usually specify the minimum total score they require for admission.
IELTS vs TOEFL: Which One Should You Choose?
Choosing between IELTS and TOEFL depends on several personal and practical factors. First, think about where you want to study, work, or migrate. IELTS is widely accepted in the UK, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and many other countries, while TOEFL is popular in the USA, Canada, and parts of Europe and Asia.
Next, consider your comfort level with different types of English. If you are more familiar with British English and a variety of accents, IELTS may feel more natural. If you are used to American English and academic language, TOEFL could be a better fit.
Your typing versus handwriting skills also matter. TOEFL is completely computer-based, so good typing speed is helpful. IELTS offers both paper-based and computer-based options, so you can choose based on what you’re more comfortable with.
Another important point: would you feel more confident speaking face-to-face with an examiner (IELTS) or recording your answers on a computer (TOEFL)? Think about which speaking format will help you perform your best.
Finally, test center availability in your area might influence your decision. Always check which test centers are closer and offer convenient dates.
Taking all these factors into account will help you choose the right test for your goals and strengths.
Effective TOEFL and IELTS Preparation Tips
No matter which test you choose — IELTS or TOEFL — smart preparation is the key to success. Here are some useful tips to help you perform your best:
- Choose the right test based on your goal:
Understand whether you need the test for study, work, or migration, and check the requirements of your target universities or immigration programs. - Practice the test format regularly:
Get familiar with the structure, timing, and question types of IELTS or TOEFL. Practice under real exam conditions to build confidence. - Work on speaking and listening skills actively:
For IELTS, focus on in-person conversational skills; for TOEFL, practice responding fluently into a microphone. Listening to a variety of English accents also helps. - Focus on academic vocabulary and everyday conversation:
Build a strong vocabulary for academic topics, but also practice everyday English phrases to sound natural and fluent during speaking and writing tasks. - Mock tests are critical:
Regularly take full-length mock tests to improve your time management, track your progress, and reduce exam-day anxiety.
Whether you are preparing for IELTS or TOEFL, consistency and targeted practice are the keys to achieving a high score.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both IELTS and TOEFL are excellent English proficiency tests, each with its unique strengths. IELTS offers a more global experience with its variety of accents and in-person speaking test, while TOEFL is more academic-focused, with a computer-based format and American English emphasis. Your choice between these tests ultimately depends on your destination country, your language preferences, and how comfortable you are with each test’s format.
No matter which test you choose, one thing is clear: focused preparation and regular practice will help you achieve your desired score. If you’re considering enrolling in an IELTS course to prepare, make sure it fits your learning style and helps you work on the areas where you need the most improvement.
Remember: With dedication and smart study strategies, you’ll be on your way to achieving your dream score — and opening the doors to new academic and professional opportunities!
