TOEFL vs IELTS for Study Abroad | A Comprehensive Comparison

TOEFL vs IELTS for study abroad is essential when considering studying abroad, the first important step is proving your proficiency in English, especially if you’re heading to an English-speaking country. The two most recognized exams for this purpose are the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) and the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Both tests are widely accepted, but they have distinct characteristics that might make one more suitable for you than the other. This article delves into the details of TOEFL vs IELTS for study abroad, helping you make an informed decision.

Table of Contents

TOEFL

The Educational Testing Service (ETS) administers the TOEFL, a test of English ability. It is designed to evaluate the English language skills of non-native speakers aiming to enroll in English-speaking universities. The test is predominantly computer-based and is known as the TOEFL iBT (Internet-Based Test). It assesses four main areas: reading, listening, speaking, and writing.

IELTS

The British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia, and Cambridge Assessment English work together to administer the IELTS. There are two test categories available: Academic and General Training. Generally speaking, the Academic version is needed for study abroad applications. IELTS assessments are offered in two modes: computer-based and paper-based. They assess the same four competencies: speaking, listening, writing, and reading.

Structure and Format

TOEFL Structure: The TOEFL iBT consists of four sections, each scored out of 30, making the total score out of 120. Here’s a breakdown of the sections:

Reading (60-80 minutes): Involves reading passages and answering questions.
Listening (60–90 minutes): This includes hearing lectures, class debates, and dialogues, and then asking questions.
Speaking (20 minutes): Test-takers must react to questions based on reading and listening assignments and share their thoughts on well-known subjects.
Writing (50 minutes): Involves writing an essay based on reading and listening tasks and expressing an opinion on a topic.

IELTS Structure: The IELTS Academic test also consists of four sections, each scored from 0 to 9, with the total score being an average of these four. Here are the sections:

Reading (60 minutes): Includes reading passages with a variety of question types.
Listening (30 minutes): Involves listening to four recordings and answering questions.
Speaking (11–14 minutes): An in-person interview with an examiner that consists of brief questions, an extended speech on a well-known subject, and an organized discussion.
Writing (60 minutes): Requires writing a short essay and a response to a graph, table, chart, or diagram.

Content and Question Types

TOEFL Content: TOEFL questions are often more academic, mirroring university classroom settings. The reading passages typically come from university-level textbooks, and the listening sections include university lectures and discussions. Speaking tasks often involve summarizing information from reading and listening materials, while writing tasks require synthesizing information from different sources.

IELTS Content: IELTS questions, particularly in the reading and listening sections, can be more diverse, drawing from a wider range of real-world contexts. The speaking test’s face-to-face nature makes it feel more like a natural conversation. Writing tasks in the IELTS Academic test focus on interpreting data and essay writing on given topics.

Scoring and Results

TOEFL Scoring: A person’s TOEFL score can vary from 0 to 120, with a maximum of 30 points awarded for each section. The scores are available online approximately six days after the test date. Most universities require a TOEFL score between 80 and 100 for admission, with some top-tier institutions expecting higher scores.

IELTS Scoring: Each section’s IELTS score ranges from 0 to 9, and the total band score is the average of the four components. Scores are available online 13 days after the test date. Universities typically require an overall band score between 6.0 and 7.5, depending on the institution and the program.

Test Availability and Accessibility

TOEFL Availability: TOEFL tests are widely available around the world, with over 4,500 test centers in 165 countries. The iBT format is the most common, but a paper-based version is available in locations where internet testing is not feasible. Test dates are frequent, often weekly, providing flexibility for test-takers.

IELTS Availability: IELTS tests are available in more than 1,600 locations across over 140 countries. Both paper-based and computer-based tests are offered, though availability varies by location. Test dates are generally available up to four times a month, providing ample opportunities to schedule a test.

Acceptance and Preference by Institutions

TOEFL Acceptance: TOEFL is accepted by over 11,000 universities and institutions in more than 150 countries. It is particularly favored by institutions in the United States and Canada. Many UK, Australian, and European universities also accept TOEFL scores.

IELTS Acceptance: IELTS is accepted by over 10,000 organizations worldwide, including educational institutions, employers, professional registration bodies, and governments. It is particularly popular in the UK, Australia, and New Zealand. Additionally, many Canadian and US universities accept IELTS results.

Cost and Preparation

TOEFL Cost: Although the price of the TOEFL iBT varies by nation, it typically costs between $180 and $300. Preparation materials are available from ETS, including official practice tests, guidebooks, and online courses. Many third-party providers also offer prep courses and materials.

IELTS Cost: The cost of the IELTS test also varies by location, generally ranging from $215 to $250. Official practice exams, study guides, and internet resources are among the preparation materials offered by Cambridge, IDP, and the British Council. Numerous third-party providers offer preparation courses as well.

Choosing the Right Test for You

When deciding between TOEFL vs IELTS for study abroad, consider the following factors:

Test Format: If you prefer a computer-based test, TOEFL might be more suitable. If you feel more comfortable with a paper-based test or face-to-face speaking, consider IELTS.
Content and Context: TOEFL’s academic focus aligns well with university settings, while IELTS’s diverse contexts might better reflect real-world English use.
Institutional Requirements: Check the specific English proficiency requirements of your target institutions. Some people may prefer one test over another.
Test Locations and Dates: Ensure that the test you choose is available in your location and offers convenient test dates.
Budget and Resources: Consider the costs and the availability of preparation resources for each test.

In conclusion, Both TOEFL and IELTS are excellent options for demonstrating English proficiency for study abroad. The choice between TOEFL vs IELTS for study abroad largely depends on personal preferences, academic goals, and institutional requirements. By understanding the differences in structure, content, scoring, availability, and acceptance, you can choose the test that best aligns with your needs and enhance your chances of success in your academic journey abroad.