IELTS vs TOEFL: Which English Exam Is Right For You?

The decision between IELTS vs.TOEFL is a complex issue when considering where to study, work, or immigrate to a second country. These two are commonly regarded as the indications of your mastery in the English language; however, some fundamental differences actually count.  By 2025, more universities will accept either test, and your choice depends on your goals, skills, and the location where you wish to live. 

This guide is divided into sections covering the Difference between IELTS and TOEFL, a comparison of IELTS vs. TOEFL scores, and frequently asked questions, such as which of the two, IELTS or TOEFL, is easier. And what is more superior, IELTS or TOEFL? We will not be too lengthy, and our sentences will be short with tips to guide you towards a wise choice. Let's jump in.

Around the globe, the tests are currently embraced in more than 12,000 institutions. If you are planning to attend graduate school in the US or UK, being aware of the Difference between IELTS and TOEFL will help you stand out. 

Understanding IELTS vs TOEFL

The IELTS (International English Language Testing System) and the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) are exams that assess your English proficiency, but differ in format, scoring, and test experience. However, the two differences between them are in how they are conducted, as well as in the form of exams and the target audience, which are also different. 

IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is typically administered through the British Council, with assistance from IDP and Cambridge Assessment English. It consists of two modules: Academic and General Training. The oral part involves a real-life person.

The TOEFL, or Test of English as a Foreign Language, primarily administered by ETS, is more academically oriented. The standard IP version is the TOEFL iBT (Internet-based), where all components, including speaking, are completed on a computer and recorded.

The Essentials: IELTS and TOEFL at a Glance

Highlight: IELTS vs. TOEFL are both widely accepted academically, professionally, and for immigration purposes. However, there are some differences between these two IELTS and TOEFL exams in their format, performance, and the kind of experience they provide.

Test Formats & Modules: How They Differ

We will identify the differences between the IELTS vs. TOEFL exams based on their formats, in terms of academic writing methods, and how they assess both assessments, and which one you would be more comfortable with.

Reading, Listening, Writing, Speaking

Duration, Scoring & Versions

• Duration: The IELTS exam lasts approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes. TOEFL iBT takes an average of 3-4 hours (with reasons and other factors).

• Scoring:

  • The IELTS has a band score system ranging from 0 to 9 per section, with a general mean.

  • The TOEFL assigns graded sections a mark between 0 and 30, and a total mark between 0 and 120.

• Acceptance & Purpose: These are accepted in most universities worldwide. IELTS is available in Academic and General formats; there is hardly a moment when TOEFL is not academic—the preference of one over the other often hinges on the country.

Planning for universities? Check out these QS-ranked universities for better choices.

IELTS and TOEFL Score Comparison: How They Stack Up

Confused by bands vs points? Inter-rater reliability can be used to validate the accuracy of the ETS updated chart in 2025 through IELTS and TOEFL score comparison. IELTS scores range from 0 to 9 bands (with an average of the parts). TOEFL totals 0-120.

Here's the official total score table:

For example, a score of 100 on the TOEFL is equivalent to 7.5 on the IELTS scale in most graduate programs. TOEFL reading and IELTS have the same score of 25 in each section, corresponding to 7.5 points. And use it with apps that sometimes provide both.

Pro tip: IELTS can reach a level as high as C2 (native-like), whereas the maximum level in TOEFL is C1. Imagine the goal theory of practice is wins.

Difficulty Level: IELTS vs TOEFL

There is no universal answer to when people are referred, nor is there a definitive conclusion on which exam is easier: IELTS or TOEFL. It all depends on your strengths, comfort level with testing, and what stresses you out. These are a few similarities, which you may choose to use to judge your own.

• However, if you are computer savvy, quick at typing, and familiar with multiple-choice questions,→ TOEFL is usually easier.”

• If you enjoy different activities, communicate with people, and do not mind writing by hand or using a keyboard, then the IELTS could be “easier.”

• The speaking part of the IELTS is less harsh for many people because it is a live discussion. In contrast, the speaking part of the TOEFL (recording) is a stressor because one does not receive direct feedback.

• If you struggle with academic reading/vocab, the heavier academic tone in the TOEFL might be more challenging. Contrarily, accents other than your own can pose a greater difficulty for you when they confuse you, because there are several accents in IELTS.

Which is Easier: IELTS or TOEFL?

Regarding which one is easier, IELTS or TOEFL, it depends on the individual's needs.

What Makes IELTS Harder (for others)

Choose IELTS: If you are comfortable with a live interview, enjoy using a combination of different questions, and prefer taking an exam on paper when you feel more at ease, then choose IELTS.

• In listening, exposure to various accents, such as those from Britain, Australia, or New Zealand, is a daily occurrence. This can be particularly challenging when an individual is accustomed to a different accent.

• Spending time talking to an examiner can be threatening.

• The writing activities, especially those involving making charts and writing case reports (Academic module), might require strict descriptive language and structure.

What Makes TOEFL Harder

Choose TOEFL: When you enjoy typing, you feel at home with questions that require multiple-choice answers, or when you are only applying to the USA.

According to recent trends, nearly 80% of surveyed candidates stated that IELTS is not as demanding because it also includes a speech format and has fewer academic reading passages. Therefore, you must master the art of starting a speech.

The difficulty level of IELTS compared to the TOEFL is relative. On the other hand, take tests that you are not familiar with.

Quick Comparison: IELTS vs TOEFL Summary

Here’s a side-by-side summary of IELTS vs TOEFL to help you quickly decide:

How to Choose: Decision Checklist

To make decisions to choose which is Better: IELTS or TOEFL, for you, follow this checklist:

1. Compare the university/program requirements. In some cases, they need a specific test or a minimum score.

2. Know your strengths: Are you more of a conversational or an audio person? Are you fond of non-academic reading than academic?

3. Test Centre Access & Schedule: Which type of test is closer to you? Which date suits you?

4. Budget & speed of results: Fees, time until score release, and cost of sending scores.

5. Practice & mock tests: Sample tests: Both. It will depend mainly on the level of your comfort.

IELTS vs TOEFL Score Comparison: Practical Targets

The following are real-world score goals depending on what you may require:

Conclusion on IELTS vs TOEFL

• You must follow the requirements of the destination and the university you prefer to attend (UK/Canada: IELTS, US: TOEFL).

• Consider comfort options (face-to-face, computer, and recorded).

• Test types: You know well what you test well on (e.g., typing vs. writing; multiple choice questions vs. open-answer questions).

With proper preparation and planning, either of these tests can open the door to your dreams. Regardless of whether it is the IELTS or TOEFL, it is essential to be aware of the differences between the two processes, allowing for the selection of the most appropriate test. 

FAQs:

Q1:What is the Difference Between IELTS and TOEFL speaking formats?

• The IELTS oral exam occurs face-to-face (through a live human examiner), where questions are asked afterwards. TOEFL speaking can be performed through a microphone and recorded assignments.

Q2: Which exam is easier: IELTS or TOEFL?

• These are generally not simpler or more complicated. It is also based on your level of what you are comfortable with, when it comes to academic terminology, whether you are better at writing or speaking.

Q3: What is the difference between IELTS vs. TOEFL Score Comparison?

• Use concordance tables. By way of example, a 94-101 score on the TOEFL iBT Exam is close to an IELTS band 7, and a 110-114 score is close to an IELTS band 8.

Q4: Which is better: the IELTS or the TOEFL for immigration or studying abroad?

• The IELTS and TOEFL are contingent on the country of acceptance. Both assess the English proficiency of immigrants to the UK and Australia (as well as Canada), but either selection is acceptable in the U.S., where some schools use the TOEFL.  Institutions should verify requirements.

Q5: How valid are the results, and how often can I retake?

• TOEFL and IELTS scores are valid for up to 2 years. You can redo either of the above tests several times, although a fee will be imposed.