Most people take English proficiency tests for immigration, occupational, and educational purposes. In this guide, we will explore the difference between the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) and the International English Language Test System (IELTS) and consider the primary objectives of people who take them.
What is IELTS?
This English test is taken by over 2.5 million people annually. The IELTS allows examiners to accurately assess how well a person taking the test can read, write, recognize spoken language, and communicate eloquently. With over 10,000 institutions accepting the result of this test, it remains popular among those who want to prove that they have a high command of English.
Test-takers choose between the Academic and General Training versions of the test. They have different Reading and Writing sections. Those who aspire to become professional IELTS instructors should read this blog to learn more about the format of this exam and the steps they should take to become certified trainers.
Three parts of the exam are taken on the same day. The Speaking section is typically scheduled later as it involves a 20-minute interview with an examiner.
What is TOEFL?
This test is accepted by over 8,500 institutions. It allows them to assess whether a person is capable of using English in an academic setting. Most people who want to study at U.S. colleges and universities are required to take it. Test-takers may use American or British spelling.
TOEFL also has four standard sections. After the Reading and Listening parts, a person takes a 10-minute break and then proceeds with completing the Speaking and Writing sections.
IELTS vs TOEFL: Key Differences
IELTS is often taken by those who want to relocate to another country, while TOEFL is preferred by foreign citizens who want to enroll in U.S. universities. Below, we have compared both tests to highlight what makes each of them unique.
| Comparison criteria | IELTS | TOEFL |
| Content | A wider choice of accents and contexts. | Prioritizes American English and tests academic English knowledge. |
| Type of questions | Focus on multiple-choice questions. | Different types of questions, including gap-filling tasks. |
| Duration | 2 hours 45 minutes | 4 hours |
| Exam format | The test comprises 4 sections, including a face-to-face interview. | There are 4 standard sections. The test does not include a physical meeting with an examiner. |
| Essay word count | 250 words | 300 words |
| Listening | Four sections, each of which comprises 10 questions. Different accents are used. | Excerpts from academic lectures or conversations between students. |
| Score system | The bands ranging from 1 to 9 represent different test scores. An overall score is a rounded-off average of test scores for different sections. | Each section allows a person to get 30 points. The maximum grade is 120 points. |
When choosing the right type of exam, one should consider why they are taking it. Academic institutions, organizations, employers, and immigration authorities may have different requirements. Depending on a person’s objectives, they should choose the most suitable test for their needs and learn more about its format to earn a higher score.
