The Differences between The TOEFL ibt and IELTS

Explore the key differences between the TOEFL and IELTS exams, including format, content, scoring, and test duration. Learn which test is best suited for your needs and how to prepare for it.
The TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) and IELTS (International English Language Testing System) are two of the most widely accepted English proficiency tests. Both tests measure a person’s ability to use and understand English in academic settings, but there are some key differences between the two.
  • Format: TOEFL is an internet-based test (IBT), while IELTS is offered in both internet-based and paper-based formats.
  • Content: TOEFL focuses more on academic English, while IELTS is designed to test general English proficiency.
  • Scoring: TOEFL scores range from 0-120 and IELTS scores range from 1-9
  • Test duration: TOEFL iBT is about four hours long, while IELTS is about 2 hours and 45 minutes.

Both tests are accepted by universities, colleges and other educational institutions worldwide, but it is important to check with your intended institution which test they prefer.

TOEFL vs IELTS: Which English Proficiency Test Reigns Supreme?

Are you planning to study abroad or apply for a job that requires English proficiency? If so, you’re probably familiar with the TOEFL and IELTS exams. These are two of the most widely accepted English proficiency tests, but they have some key differences.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the TOEFL and IELTS exams, including their format, content, scoring, and test duration. By the end of this article, you’ll have a better understanding of which test is best suited for your needs and how to prepare for it. So, whether you’re a student looking to study in an English-speaking country or a professional aiming to advance your career, keep reading to find out which English proficiency test reigns supreme.

FORMAT:

One of the most significant differences between the TOEFL and IELTS is the format of the test. TOEFL is an internet-based test (IBT), while IELTS is offered in both internet-based and paper-based formats. This means that the TOEFL is taken entirely on a computer, while the IELTS can be taken on a computer or with pen and paper.

READING SECTION:

The reading section of the TOEFL is designed to test academic reading skills, while the reading section of the IELTS is designed to test general reading skills. The TOEFL reading section includes three to four passages, while the IELTS reading section includes four passages.

LISTENING SECTION:

The listening section of the TOEFL is designed to test academic listening skills, while the listening section of the IELTS is designed to test general listening skills. The TOEFL listening section includes four to six passages, while the IELTS listening section includes four passages.

WRITING SECTION:

The writing section of the TOEFL requires test takers to write an essay, while the writing section of the IELTS requires test takers to write a letter or an essay. The TOEFL writing section is designed to test academic writing skills, while the IELTS writing section is designed to test general writing skills.

SPEAKING SECTION:

Both the TOEFL and IELTS speaking sections are designed to test a test taker’s ability to speak English. However, the TOEFL speaking section is more structured and includes six tasks, while the IELTS speaking section includes three tasks.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both the TOEFL and IELTS are widely accepted English proficiency tests, but they have some key differences. It is important to understand the format, content, and scoring of each test to determine which one is best suited for your needs. It is recommended to check with your intended institution which test they prefer.