IELTS vs TOEFL: Which is Easier for Indian Students?

The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) and the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) are two of the most well-known and respected tests of English ability. All individuals who are not native English speakers must take these exams as part of their application process. 

This article has been crafted to aid individuals who are undecided between TOEFL and IELTS. This informative post compares both exams to help readers make a well-informed choice.

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a globally recognized English proficiency exam designed to assess the language skills of non-native English speakers. Developed jointly by the British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia, and Cambridge Assessment English, IELTS evaluates individuals’ abilities to listen, read, write, and speak in English.

Structure

• Listening: Test-takers listen to recordings of native English speakers and answer questions based on the content.
• Reading: Test-takers read passages and answer questions to demonstrate their comprehension skills.
• Writing: Test-takers write responses to prompts, including essays and reports, to showcase their writing abilities.
• Speaking: Test-takers engage in face-to-face interviews with examiners, discussing various topics and expressing their opinions.

Purposes

• Academic Purposes: IELTS Academic is designed for individuals applying to study at universities and colleges in English-speaking countries. It assesses their readiness for academic study in English.
• General Purposes: IELTS General Training is suitable for individuals seeking work experience, training programs, or migration to English-speaking countries. It evaluates their proficiency in everyday English communication skills.

Must Read: IELTS Exam 2024: Exam Dates, Registration, Fees, Eligibility, Syllabus, Preparation Tips, Results & Score

The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is an internationally recognized English proficiency exam administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS). Designed to assess the English language skills of non-native English speakers, TOEFL evaluates individuals’ abilities to listen, read, write, and speak in English.

Format

• Reading: Test-takers read passages and answer questions to demonstrate their comprehension skills.
• Listening: Test-takers listen to recordings of academic lectures, conversations, and discussions, and answer questions based on the content.
• Speaking: Test-takers respond to speaking prompts, expressing their opinions and ideas on various topics.
• Writing: Test-takers write responses to prompts, including essays and reports, to showcase their writing abilities.

Objectives

• Academic Purposes: TOEFL is widely used by universities and colleges in English-speaking countries as part of the admissions process for international students. It assesses individuals’ readiness for academic study in English-speaking environments.
• Professional Purposes: TOEFL scores are also recognized by certain industries and organizations for professional certifications and licensing purposes. It evaluates individuals’ English language proficiency for specific professional roles.
• Immigration Purposes: TOEFL scores may be required by immigration authorities as part of visa applications for individuals seeking to study, work, or reside in English-speaking countries. It shows individuals’ ability to communicate effectively in English for immigration purposes.

Must Read: TOEFL Exam 2024: Fees, Syllabus, Dates, Registration & More

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a widely recognized language proficiency exam taken by individuals seeking overseas education or for professional purposes. Accepted in over 140 countries, IELTS offers two versions: IELTS General Training (for work or immigration) and IELTS Academic (for educational purposes).

In contrast, TOEFL, which stands for Test of English as a Foreign Language, is another popular language proficiency test commonly chosen by students aiming to study abroad. This exam focuses on evaluating applicants’ abilities to communicate effectively in English-based academic settings and is accepted in approximately 130 countries.

The primary distinction lies in the question format, with TOEFL featuring multiple-choice questions while IELTS incorporates varied question types like fill in the blanks and short answers. Additionally, there’s a notable difference in exam duration, with IELTS requiring 2 hours and 45 minutes compared to TOEFL’s shorter duration of 1 hour and 56 minutes.

IELTS offers two versions, General Training and Academic, allowing applicants to select based on their purpose, whereas TOEFL provides only one type of exam, commonly chosen by students pursuing programs abroad. IELTS evaluates applicants’ creative thinking and comprehension skills, whereas TOEFL assesses analytical thinking and decision-making abilities. This distinction between the two exams is a key feature of the TOEFL vs IELTS comparison.

Also Read: IELTS Exam Pattern 2024: Section-wise IELTS Exam Paper Pattern, Question Types

Also Read: TOEFL Exam Pattern 2024 (Download PDF): Check Section-wise Pattern, Total Marks, Duration

In the IELTS exam, candidates tackle two writing tasks. The first task involves interpreting information from diagrams or charts, while the second task requires writing a 200-250 word response to an argument or viewpoint. Conversely, in the TOEFL exam, the first task involves crafting a five-paragraph essay within 300-350 words, while the second task entails responding to notes from a text in 150-225 words.

TOEFL’s speaking assessment is recorded via microphone and sent to examiners, while IELTS conducts face-to-face interview-style assessments. TOEFL’s speaking test lasts 16 minutes, whereas IELTS ranges from 10 to 15 minutes. A distinguishing factor is the option to attempt the speaking test before other sections in IELTS, unlike TOEFL.

Both exams’ reading sections feature texts similar to those encountered in academic programs. TOEFL offers 2 reading passages to be completed in 35 minutes, while IELTS presents 3 passages with questions in various formats like gap fillings and short answers.

IELTS allows answering questions while listening to the recording, with various types of questions. TOEFL is based on classroom lectures, requiring note-taking while listening. Students answer MCQs within 36 minutes in the TOEFL listening component.

The assessment criteria for the speaking and writing sections differ between TOEFL and IELTS. TOEFL evaluates primarily on the appearance of responses, focusing on aspects like vocabulary range, writing style, and grammar. In contrast, IELTS employs distinct criteria such as logic, coherence, grammar, and fluency.

For instance, in TOEFL, an essay with a logical flow of ideas but poor grammar may receive a higher score, whereas in IELTS, an essay with strong grammar and vocabulary but weaker communication skills might score higher.

IELTS scores range from 1 to 9, with the final result being the average of individual scores across all four sections. If the average score is, for example, 6.25, it is rounded up to 6.5. On the other hand, TOEFL provides a single test score with a maximum of 120 points.

In broad terms, TOEFL and IELTS scores can be compared as follows:

Quick Read: TOEFL to IELTS Score Conversion

Ultimately, the choice between IELTS and TOEFL depends on your preferences, goals, and the specific requirements of the institutions or organizations you’re applying to. Take the time to research and consider all factors carefully before making your decision.

Test Format

• IELTS: If you prefer a paper-based exam for the Reading and Writing sections and face-to-face speaking interviews, IELTS may be the better option.
• TOEFL: If you’re comfortable with fully computer-based exams and prefer integrated tasks that combine skills like reading, listening, and speaking, TOEFL might be more suitable.

Score Requirements

Research the score requirements of institutions or organizations you plan to apply to. Some may prefer IELTS, while others may accept TOEFL. Choose the exam that aligns with the score requirements of your desired institutions.

Test Availability

Consider the availability of test dates and locations for both exams in your region. Choose the exam that offers convenient test dates and locations for you.

Personal Preferences

Reflect on your personal preferences and strengths. Are you more comfortable with a particular test format or question type? Choose the exam that plays to your strengths and allows you to perform your best.

Test Preparation Resources

Explore the availability of test preparation resources for both exams, such as practice tests, study guides, and online courses. Choose the exam for which you can access the most comprehensive and effective preparation materials.

Future Plans

Consider your future plans and where you intend to study, work, or immigrate. Some countries or institutions may prefer one exam over the other, so choose the exam that aligns with your future goals.

Consultation

Seek advice from teachers, mentors, or admissions counselors who are familiar with both exams. They can provide valuable information and guidance based on your individual circumstances.

More than 11,000 universities worldwide recognize either the IELTS or TOEFL, or both, for English language proficiency. When applying to universities in the UK or Australia, IELTS is generally the preferred option, whereas many universities in the USA primarily accept TOEFL scores.

Various courses at universities globally have specific English language score prerequisites. The following table illustrates the required IELTS and TOEFL iBT scores across different course levels:

Worldwide, scores on the TOEFL and IELTS are recognized as indicators of English competence. More than 9,000 universities worldwide, including those in the US, UK, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand, recognize IELTS exam results.

More than 11,000 universities across 160 countries recognize the results of the TOEFL exam; in the US, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, France, and Germany, the acceptance rate is 100%. In the US, the TOEFL exam is preferred above the IELTS exam, although in other nations the opposite is true.

The exam fees for IELTS and TOEFL are mentioned below:

Conclusion

In conclusion, selecting between the TOEFL and IELTS is a big choice that will affect your personal, career, and academic goals. Although the format, scoring, and administration of the two exams are different, they are both valid indicators of English language proficiency. Think about things like test format, score requirements, test availability, personal preferences, study materials, and future goals while choosing your choice. You can choose the one that best meets your needs by carefully considering these considerations and coordinating them with your objectives.

Also Check:

What is the difference between IELTS and TOEFL?

IELTS is paper-based for Reading and Writing, with face-to-face Speaking interviews. TOEFL is fully computer-based, covering Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing.

Which exam is more widely accepted?

Both IELTS and TOEFL are widely accepted by universities and institutions globally. However, the preference may vary depending on the institution and country.

How are scores reported for IELTS and TOEFL?

IELTS scores are reported on a 9-band scale, while TOEFL scores range from 0 to 120 points.

Which exam is better for me: IELTS or TOEFL?

It depends on personal preferences, test format familiarity, score requirements of the institution, and future plans such as study destination or immigration goals.

How long are IELTS and TOEFL scores valid?

Both IELTS and TOEFL scores are typically valid for two years from the test date.

Can I take both the IELTS and TOEFL exams?

Yes, you can take both exams if needed. However, it’s essential to check if your desired institutions accept scores from both exams or have a preference for one over the other.

Are there differences in test preparation for IELTS and TOEFL?

Yes, there are differences in test preparation materials and strategies for IELTS and TOEFL due to variations in format and question types. It’s advisable to use specific preparation resources tailored to each exam.