IELTS vs TOEFL: Which is Easier and More Accepted?

The IELTS and the TOEFL are two of the most popular standardized English tests available for candidates to prove their English proficiency. Both tests are designed to test English fluency by testing the four English language skills: reading, listening, writing, and speaking. However, both tests do so by employing different formats. Institutions widely accept IELTS and TOEFL, so it is crucial to understand their differences. Determining which test is best for a candidate can be confusing.

Making the Choice - IELTS or TOEFL?

• Universities/Organizations: Sometimes, the choice between the two depends on which one is valid for the university or organization a candidate wishes to apply to. IELTS was created by the British Council and is accepted in countries such as Canada, Australia, Europe, etc. ETS, an American organization, administers TOEFL, which is why many American universities will accept TOEFL. Candidates who wish to move to the UK must attempt the IELTS UKVI since it is mandatory for the visa application. A TOEFL is not a viable option in this circumstance. However, candidates can decide which test suits them when both tests are recognized and accepted.
• Test Centers: The TOEFL test is available in more than 200 countries, while the IELTS has more than 4000 test centers in 140 countries worldwide.
• Test Mode: Candidates should decide if they are more comfortable with paper-based tests or computer-based tests. While TOEFL is entirely computer-based, IELTS has a paper-based testing option.
• Test Format: The Speaking section in both tests requires the candidate to talk based on the task. Candidates should decide if they are comfortable speaking with a live person, either in person or on a video call, or just recording their response. IELTS requires real-time interaction with an instructor, while TOEFL requires recording the responses to be reviewed later by the examiner.
• Fees: The fees for both tests are more or less within the same price range. Candidates must keep in mind that the fee for the two tests depends on location, test center, etc. In the US, the TOEFL test costs between $100 to $300, while the IELTS costs $280 to $340.

If a candidate can do both tests for their purposes and both are convenient to attempt, they can decide based on the format they are comfortable with or find easier. Several differences between the two tests can help candidates decide which is best for them.

IELTS and TOEFL iBT - Duration

Both IELTS and TOEFL are now around two hours long. However, the time allotted to each section is different.

Section	IELTS	TOEFL iBT
Listening	30 minutes + 10 minutes	36 minutes
Reading	60 minutes	35 minutes
Writing	60 minutes	29 minutes
Speaking	11 to 14 minutes	16 minutes

Similarities Between IELTS and TOEFL

• Both tests focus on core language skills, including reading, listening, writing, and speaking.
• Both the tests are standardized. This implies that the scores candidates receive will have the same value worldwide.
• The exams are similarly priced and have similar test duration.

Differences Between IELTS and TOEFL

• IELTS offers a computer-based and a paper-based test. On the other hand, TOEFL only offers internet-based tests, such as TOEFL iBT and TOEFL Essentials.
• While both IELTS and TOEFL provide the option to attempt the test online from the comfort of home, this is a fairly new system for IELTS and may not be as seamless as it is for the TOEFL.
• The IELTS reading section text can differ depending on the type of IELTS candidates attempt- Academic or General Training. However, TOEFL's iBT reading text is academic only.
• The IELTS speaking section is a one-on-one interaction with a certified IELTS examiner. This interaction can seem like an interview as well as a discussion. The TOEFL speaking section is computer-based. Candidates listen to a previously recorded question and answer through a microphone.
• The IELTS speaking section may be conducted a few hours after the other three sections or sometime within the same week. All sections of the TOEFL are completed at the same time.
• For the IELTS listening section, candidates must note down the answers while the recording is being played and only then transfer the answers to an answer sheet. In TOEFL's listening section, candidates can write the answers after listening to the recording.
• TOEFL has a majority of multiple-choice questions. IELTS has various question types, including short answers, fill in the gaps, match the following, etc.
• IELTS is scored on a band scale ranging from 0-9. Each section is scored on a scale of 0-9, and the overall score is an average of all the section scores. TOEFL iBT is scored out of 120 points, and each section is 30 points.

The ultimate choice between the IELTS and the TOEFL, if both are viable options for candidates, depends on a candidate's judgment of their skills. Both tests have an equal number of challenges, so one cannot state objectively, which is easier. Some may find the TOEFL speaking section less intimidating, while the TOEFL listening or reading section may be more challenging. Others may be more comfortable with multiple-choice questions, while some may find those types of questions restricting.

Regardless of which test the candidates choose, both tests require them to prepare through consistent practice.