TOEFL vs IELTS: The Core Elements

Test Format and Structure

Comprehensive knowledge of the test format and structure is crucial in eliminating the preparation jargon for seamless test success on time and efficiently.

TOEFL iBT: Accepted by more than 200+ countries and 13,000 institutions worldwide, TOEFL iBT comes under the ETS (Educational Testing Service). The test assesses the English proficiency skills of the test takers in reading, listening, speaking, and writing with two approaches to take the test: Home testing and the Test Centre.

The reading section has two 2 passages with 10 questions each, approximately 700 words long.

The Listening section is designed to test your ability to understand conversations and lectures in English with 28 questions. You must answer questions about brief lectures or classroom discussions divided into 3 lectures (6 questions each) and 2 Conversations (5 questions per conversation).

The Speaking section (4 tasks) is divided into Independent Speaking tasks (responses are entirely your ideas, opinions, and experiences) and Integrated Speaking Tasks (a combination of listening and speaking, or listening, reading, and speaking just like you would in a classroom). Speak directly into a microphone to respond to a speaking task to be recorded.

The Writing section (2 tasks) - An integrated writing task and a Writing for an Academic Discussion task. You must read a passage, listen to a recording, and type your response.

IELTS This English Proficiency test is under the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge English Language Assessment collaboration. The test assesses the test taker’s Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking efficiency in English. The test is divided into Academic and General Training where the test takers can choose a paper-based and computer-based exam. The Academic test is ideal for individuals seeking higher education while General Training is a better choice for immigration and employment. Speaking and Listening sections are the same in both tests, only the Reading and Writing sections have different questions.

Academic Topics are of general interest to students at the undergraduate or postgraduate level. The importance of these tests is geared toward academic settings you'll likely experience in the Academic environment.

General Training This test covers everyday social situations, education, and training.

Test Score They have their distinct form of evaluation methods for the score.

TOEFL The total score ranges from 0-120 where each of the 4 sections has a score range of 0-30 depending on the levels (4-5) and expertise. This method provides a clear picture of the test taker’s score across different skills. A better score on this test will elevate your chances of studying at your dream universities, especially in the U.S. and Canada where TOEFL is widely accepted.

Test Duration

TOEFL The test can be completed in 2 hours, however, allow 30 minutes extra for the log-in time. Here is the breakdown of the Section and duration:

IELTS: The IELTS test duration is approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes. They offer Academic and General Training. Below are the details section and duration of the IELTS test.

IELTS Academic: IELTS Academic can be taken remotely online or at a test center. Students aspiring to study at undergraduate or postgraduate levels or looking for professional courses such as Doctors and nurses can opt for this test.

General TrainingGeneral Training is ideal for individuals who want to migrate to study below degree level in English-speaking countries (Australia, Canada, New Zealand, UK).

IELTS It has over 4000 test locations in 140 countries worldwide. You may visit their official page of ielts.org to check the detailed locations.

TOEFL Available in more than 200 countries and territories with Home and Test Center testing. You may check the detailed lists for the TOEFL iBT test centers if your preferred testing center is on the list on their main website.

TOEFL vs IELTS: Which Test to Choose?

Purpose and Destination The choice between TOEFL and IELTS largely depends on your goals, aspirations, and purpose. Let’s understand which score is preferred by which countries:

TOEFL: The United States and Canada prefer TOEFL scores due to their comprehensive and meticulous assessment in an academic context. This test is the right choice if you want to study in these countries.

IELTS: The IELTS score is advantageous for individuals planning to migrate to the UK, Australia, and New Zealand for study and other immigration purposes as the score is popularly accepted in these countries

Test Format Preference Understanding the test format will help you choose better knowing which one aligns with your strengths:

TOEFL: This test is the right choice if you are comfortable with computer-based and integrated testing.

IELTS: This is a paper-based test and includes a face-to-face section. You may choose this test if you are comfortable with this format.

Cost of the tests The test's cost differs by country and the type (computer and paper-based). Let’s compare these tests, particularly in India.

IELTS: The standard IELTS test fee in India is INR 17,000.

TOEFL: The actual test fee of TOEFL is INR 16900. However, we provide an authorized discounted TOEFL exam voucher at INR 11999 where you can save INR 4901. You can book the test securely using our discounted TOEFL exam voucher and save money for buying important study materials or your coffee-fueled study sessions. You’ll receive a discounted TOEFL exam voucher code in your registered email address within 24 hours if you purchase from us. The voucher is a full payment for your exam eliminating the need to pay any additional amount. Moreover, if you have any voucher-related issues redeeming the voucher code while booking the exam, you can call us anytime because we are available 24/7 to assist you.

Given a detailed explanation to help you make an informed decision about TOEFL and IELTS, of what it takes to score in the exam, you must decide which test to take that aligns with your purpose. Be clear about which country you want to go to, and your purpose in taking this exam before selecting the test. TOEFL could be your preferred choice if you want to excel in this test without stretching your wallet. Some of you may have a question about which exam is easier, TOEFL or IELTS. The only answer to that question depends on your preference because no exam is harder or easier, you must be comfortable with the test you chose, whether it aligns with your skills and knowledge, and your purpose and objectives. Because your ‘how’ is easy if your ‘why’ is clear.

Cheers to your Success!