How Can You Choose Between TOEFL and IELTS?
You now have a general idea of what to anticipate from both IELTS and TOEFL tests. Which test ought you to take then? You should ask yourself the four questions listed below. To assist in making your selection, give each query significant consideration.
Which exam (s) Are Accepted by the Schools You Are Interested In?
The colleges you’re interested in attending must accept your exam results; all other considerations are only relevant if they do. The TOEFL and IELTS are widely recognized exams at undergraduate and graduate institutions worldwide.
Although many colleges accept results from either exam, American universities prefer the TOEFL, while international institutions prefer the IELTS. However, it’s also essential to investigate whether a school has a preference for the test you take. According to most American institutions assessed, TOEFL scores are favored over results from other English-language exams.
Overall, it’s probable that the institutions you’re considering will accept scores from either exam. Still, it’s vital to double-check this before you decide on a test to avoid any unpleasant surprises later. It is simple to determine which universities accept the TOEFL and IELTS results.
Which Test Plays to Your Strengths Better?
Although the IELTS and TOEFL measure the same core competencies, they do so in slightly different ways. The top four differences between the TOEFL and IELTS are shown below. Consider whether one exam appears more suited to your talents than the other as you read through both. If you need more clarification, you may also take a practice test for each exam and determine which one you feel most confident taking.
Difference 1: Short Answer vs. Multiple-Choice
The IELTS requires you to create your answers to many questions in the Reading and Listening portions, but the TOEFL provides you with all the response options. This is a significant distinction between the two examinations. Although not all of the TOEFL questions in these sections are multiple-choice, most of them are, so you won’t need to come up with solutions. Many of the questions on the IELTS require you to provide your responses.
As an illustration, both tests have questions that require you to compile an appropriately arranged list of actions or occurrences. You only need to follow the procedures on the TOEFL and arrange them in the proper sequence. You must adequately organize and write down the procedures on your own for the IELTS.
The TOEFL may be more comfortable for you if you like more multiple-choice questions or ones where you may choose an answer from a list of possibilities.
Difference 2: computer-based versus paper-based
Comparing TOEFL and IELTS is also a matter of computer vs. paper testing.
Nearly everyone who takes the TOEFL does it online. While you are permitted to take notes on scrap paper, You must enter your formal responses into a computer. On the other hand, many test centers give the IELTS on a computer or using pencil and paper.
You could prefer the TOEFL if you type more quickly than you write, have sloppy handwriting, or like computer examinations over paper ones. The IELTS may be simpler for you if you prefer to write down your answers, are less at ease taking computer-based assessments, or are less accustomed to English language keyboards.
Difference 3: Oral Interview vs. Computer-Based Speaking
Like all other parts of the TOEFL, the Speaking component is completed on a computer. You’ll hear pre-recorded questions and use a microphone to answer them. With the IELTS, you’ll be speaking to a real person.
One of the most significant differences between IELTS and TOEFL is this, which should be considered. Speaking to a real person can be nerve-wracking for some people who would instead take the TOEFL. However, for others, speaking to a real person seems more comfortable and natural than speaking into the void for several minutes.
Additionally, the TOEFL’s Speaking section is usually the third component of the test. Still, the IELTS allows you to take this component up to a week before or after the remainder of the exam. Some people like to finish their exams in one sitting, while others prefer to divide them into smaller, more manageable chunks.
Difference 4: Appropriate Essay Lengths
You must write two essays for the Writing part of both tests. IELTS, on the other hand, allows you 60 minutes to write the suggested 400 words, whereas TOEFL only allows you 50 minutes and suggests roughly 500 words. You can submit your essays for both tests even if they don’t fit inside those word limits, but you’ll probably get penalized for not having a complete answer. The IELTS writing portion may be more superficial for you if writing in English is difficult and takes a lot of time because fewer words are required.
Is One Simpler to Reach?
It would help if you also considered the logistics of taking the TOEFL or IELTS. You may find it easier to choose one exam if the testing location is closer to you and there are more test dates available for that exam. Look at the TOEFL or IELTS exam dates and places to find out more.
Does One cost less?
Finally, another aspect you should take into account is the cost of each test. Both examinations typically cost between $200 and $250. However, the price varies based on the nation where you take the test. It’s important to compare prices for your country to discover if the TOEFL or IELTS is much less expensive. Visit the organizations’ websites to learn how much the TOEFL and IELTS tests cost.
Comparison of IELTS and TOEFL
The TOEFL and IELTS are the most often given English language competency tests. Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing are the same four skills tested on both exams, but the structure and methodology of the assessments vary.
To choose which exam is better for you in the discussion between the TOEFL and the IELTS, pose the following four questions to yourself:
Which exam is accepted by the schools you are interested in?
Which exam best utilizes your strengths?
Is one more accessible?
Does one cost less?