IELTS vs TOEFL: Which Exam Should You Take?

Which English Proficiency Test to Take: IELTS or TOEFL?

One of the first things you should consider while studying abroad or relocating to an English-speaking nation is your level of English proficiency. The TOEFL and IELTS are the two most often used exams for this purpose. Colleges, universities, and even certain companies accept both tests. But picking the best one might be difficult. Don't worry; this article will explain the distinctions between the TOEFL and IELTS and help you choose the best option for your requirements.

What is IELTS?
One of the most well-known English language assessments in the world is the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Universities in the UK, Australia, Canada, and many other nations accept it. The four components of the test are Speaking, Reading, Writing, and Listening.

The Speaking portion of the IELTS exam involves a face-to-face interview with an examiner, which is one of its distinctive elements. In contrast to previous assessments, this helps evaluate your spoken English in a natural setting.

IELTS tests come in two varieties: Academic and General Training. Students who choose to pursue higher education should take the Academic test, while those who wish to work or relocate to an English-speaking nation should take the General Training test.

What is TOEFL?
The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is another popular English proficiency test. It is mainly used by students who want to study in the United States, although it is accepted by universities in other countries as well. TOEFL also has four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.

The TOEFL Speaking part is completed on a computer rather than in person with an examiner, which is the main distinction between it and the IELTS. Some test-takers may find this less intimate, while others may find it more cozy. Furthermore, IELTS can be either computer-based or paper-based, depending on your preference, but the TOEFL is an internet-based format that is administered on a computer.

Key Differences Between IELTS and TOEFL

1) Test Format

• IELTS: The test has four sections—Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. The Speaking section is conducted with an examiner in person.
• TOEFL: The test also includes four sections—Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. However, the Speaking section is recorded on a computer.

2) Test Duration

• IELTS: The test takes about 2 hours and 45 minutes to complete.
• TOEFL: The test takes about 3 hours to finish.

3) Scoring System

• IELTS: Each section is scored on a band scale of 1 to 9, and the overall score is an average of all the sections.
• TOEFL: The score ranges from 0 to 120, with each section being scored out of 30 points.

4) Test Location and Availability

• IELTS: Available in over 140 countries worldwide and is offered multiple times each month.
• TOEFL: Also available worldwide, and it is given more frequently in North America.

5) Accent and Pronunciation

• IELTS: The Listening section features a variety of accents, including British, Australian, and American accents.
• TOEFL: The Listening section mostly uses American English accents.

Which Test Should You Take?
Now that you know the main differences between IELTS vs TOEFL, you might be wondering which exam is better for you. The answer depends on several factors:

1) Where You Want to Study

• If you plan to study in the United States, the TOEFL is often preferred by many universities.
• If you are looking to study in the UK, Australia, Canada, or other countries, IELTS is widely accepted.

2) Test Format Preference

• Some people prefer the IELTS Speaking section because it involves speaking with a real person, which might feel more natural.
• On the other hand, if you are comfortable with computers and prefer the TOEFL format where you speak into a microphone, this might be the right choice for you.

3) Your Strengths and Weaknesses

• If you are confident in writing essays and reading academic texts, you might find TOEFL easier.
• If you feel more comfortable with a face-to-face interview and enjoy listening to a variety of accents, IELTS might be better suited to you.

4) Test Duration

• If you don’t want a long test, the IELTS might be the better choice as it is shorter than the TOEFL.

Preparation Tips for IELTS and TOEFL
Regardless of which test you choose, preparation is key. Here are some tips to help you prepare for both exams:

1) Practice Listening and Speaking

• For IELTS, try listening to podcasts and watching videos in English. Practice speaking with friends or even online platforms.
• For TOEFL, listen to English news or podcasts, and practice speaking clearly into a microphone.

2) Improve Your Reading Skills

• Both tests require good reading skills. Read newspapers, books, and academic articles in English to build your reading comprehension.

3) Write Regularly

• Writing practice is essential for both tests. Start writing essays, summaries, or reports on various topics to improve your writing skills.

4) Take Practice Tests

• Taking practice tests will help you understand the exam format and improve your time management skills.

Disclaimer:

This article provides general information and is not official advice. For accurate details, please refer to the official IELTS and TOEFL websites. MyEduGoal recommends that readers evaluate their personal needs before selecting an exam.

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