TOEFL vs IELTS: Which Should You Take?
Both TOEFL iBT and IELTS Academic are accepted by most universities worldwide. The biggest practical differences are the Speaking format (TOEFL is recorded to a microphone; IELTS Academic can be face-to-face) and scoring scale.
TOEFL vs IELTS at a glance
| TOEFL | IELTS | |
|---|---|---|
| Accepted for | University admissions (US-leaning historically) | University, immigration, work (UK/AU/CA-leaning) |
| Skills tested | Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing | Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking |
| Speaking format | Recorded answers to a microphone | Live with an examiner (or on computer) |
| Scoring | 1–6 bands (0.5 increments, per section and overall) | 0–9 bands (0.5 increments) |
| Length | ~2 hours | ~2 hours 45 minutes |
| Accent / English | Mostly North American | Mostly British, mixed accents |
Which one should you choose?
Choose TOEFL if you are comfortable typing essays and speaking to a microphone, or your target schools are US-based. Choose IELTS if you prefer speaking with a real examiner, are heading to the UK, Australia or Canada, or need it for immigration. Confirm which test your university and visa pathway accept before booking.
Choose based on your strengths
Take TOEFL if you:
- Are comfortable typing essays and speaking to a microphone
- Are applying mainly to US universities
- Prefer academic North American English
- Want a 1–6 band score reported per section
Take IELTS if you:
- Prefer speaking face-to-face with a real examiner
- Are heading to the UK, Australia or Canada
- Need the test for immigration or a visa
- Prefer a band-based 0–9 score
Frequently asked questions
- Is TOEFL or IELTS easier?
- It depends on your strengths. TOEFL suits confident typists comfortable with academic American English; IELTS suits those who prefer a face-to-face speaking test and a band-based score.
- Which is more widely accepted?
- Both are accepted by most universities globally. IELTS has broader acceptance for UK/Australia/Canada immigration; TOEFL is traditionally strong for US universities.
- How long are the scores valid?
- Both TOEFL and IELTS scores are valid for two years from the test date.