The choice between TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) and IELTS (International English Language Testing System) often depends on the preferences of the university or program to which you are applying, as well as your personal strengths and preferences. Both tests are widely accepted by universities around the world, including top institutions. Here's a comparison to help you decide which test might be best for you when applying to top universities:
1. Format: TOEFL is entirely computer-based, comprising four sections: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing.
2. Scoring: Scores range from 0 to 120, with each section scored out of 30 points.
3. Accent: TOEFL often features American accents in listening and speaking sections, which may be advantageous if you're more comfortable with American English.
4. Speaking: In the speaking section, you'll respond to prompts by speaking into a microphone. Your responses are recorded and evaluated by human raters.
1. Format: IELTS offers two versions: Academic and General Training. The Academic version is typically required for university admissions.
2. Scoring: Scores range from 0 to 9 for each section, with the overall band score calculated as the average of the four section scores.
3. Accent: IELTS features a variety of English accents, including British, Australian, and American, which may be beneficial if you're more comfortable with diverse accents.
4. Speaking: In the speaking section, you'll have a face-to-face interview with a certified examiner, which some test-takers find more natural and less intimidating.
1. University Requirements: Check the specific English language proficiency requirements of the universities to which you're applying. Some institutions may prefer or exclusively accept one test over the other, while others accept both.
2. Personal Preference: Consider your comfort level with the test format, accents, and speaking components. Some test-takers may prefer the computer-based format of TOEFL, while others may feel more at ease with the face-to-face speaking component of IELTS.
3. Availability and Test Centers: Choose a test that is readily available in your area and offers convenient test dates. Both TOEFL and IELTS are widely available globally, but there may be differences in test center locations and scheduling.
4. Preparation Resources: Explore the availability of test preparation resources, including study guides, practice tests, and preparation courses, for both TOEFL and IELTS. Choose the test for which you can access adequate preparation materials.
In conclusion, both TOEFL and IELTS are very important English language proficiency tests to help students get accepted by top universities worldwide; such a qualifications in language proficiency are among the main requirements for Universities abroad. Your decision should be based on the requirements of the universities you're applying to. Whichever path you choose, commit to preparation, practice, and confidence-building strategies to ace your English proficiency exam and open doors to new opportunities in your academic and professional journey.
Here in Yadros you can check all programs requiring TOEFL and IELTS certifications to start your academic journey.
You can also find a wide list of featured universities as well as all requirements of both tests in different fields such as business, engineering and languages, etc...
Vistula University in Poland
Stirling University in UAE
UCAM universities in Spain
ESEI University in Spain
University of Debrecen in Hungary
Magui Magdi
Content Creator
A passionate translator/interpreter with love for languages, literature and storytelling.