Guidelines-Student • 10 AUG, 2023

IELTS vs TOEFL: Which Test Is Better For Indian Students?

The Ultimate English Battle: IELTS vs TOEFL

Most universities or organisations abroad want to see how your English fairs in an internationally-approved testing system, which is usually two significant tests: the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). Additionally, our favourite Green Bird app, Duolingo English tests, is starting to be accepted in some universities too. Still, since the former two are more widely recognised, we’d place our bets on IELTS or TOEFL as the more-accepted English Language tests.

Avoiding any of these tests is probably not possible, but worry not, as you definitely do have the option of choosing one of these two according to your likes and preferences. So read our complete analysis of IELTS vs TOEFL and take your pick.

Po-ta-to? Pot-a-to? The difference between IELTS and TOEFL?

When we’re making an IELTS TOEFL comparison, it makes sense to begin with the actual structure of the two. Are they apples and oranges or pot-a-to and po-ta-to? Let’s find out. Here is the IELTS vs TOEFL academic structure comparison:

A. The IELTS test structure

The IELTS academic exam tests you on four main components:

1. Listening section:

The task is to listen to various audios played in multiple accents regarding general conversational and academic discussions
Answer questions based on audio
Contains 4 sections, 40 marks overall
Test Duration: 30 minutes

2. Reading section:

The reading task is to comprehend 3 academic writings and answer questions related to each of them
Contains 3 sections, with 40 questions, 40 marks overall
Test Duration: 60 minutes

3. Writing section:

2 written pieces - one factual reporting of a graph and one opinion piece
This truly tests your ability to keep up with the IELTS difficulty level
Test Duration: 60 minutes

4. Speaking section:

Speaking task involves making a conversation with the examiner
3-part conversations
Will be on various topics from your hobbies to your opinion of the world
Usually happens on a separate day from the other three components
Test Duration: 11-14 minutes

B. The TOEFL test structure

Although IELTS or TOEFL follow the same structure, let’s find out if TOEFL harder than IELTS?

1. Listening section

Has a mix of conversations and lectures
3 minutes each
30 questions based on the audio pieces
Test Duration: 41-57 minutes

2. Reading section

3-4 academic passages
Passage type varies between compare/contrast, cause/effect, and informational pieces
Score: 30 marks
Test Duration: 54-72 minutes

3. Writing section

2 tasks: integrated and independent
Integrated task involves writing an opinion on the material you heard and read
Independent task is an opinion piece
Test Duration: 50 minutes

4. Speaking sectio

The key difference between IELTS and TOEFL is this segment of the test
In TOEFL, you are required to speak into a microphone as opposed to speaking with an examiner
4 tasks: 1 independent opinion piece, 3 integrated
Test Duration: 17 minutes

IELTS vs TOEFL : How am I being tested?

Although the judgement part of it cannot be avoided, you can arm yourself with the knowledge of the scoring system to navigate through these tests seamlessly. Now, let’s look at the scoring basis for IELTS and TOEFL:

The scoring range varies in IELTS vs TOEFL:

IELTS showcases its prowess in scoring on a band scale. Each of the 4 sections is marked out on a 9-point scale and the average of these is presented as your overall IELTS score.

On the other hand, TOEFL does compound marking. It adds up each section’s scores and gives you an overall score out of 120.

Here is an IELTS TOEFL comparison of how the subsections or components are marked:

COMPONENT	IELTS	TOEFL
Listening	9 points	30
Reading	9 points	30
Writing	9 points	30
Speaking	9 points	30
TOTAL SCORE:	/9 (Average of the 4 components)	/120 (Aggregate of the 4 components)

The Academic version is for those looking to study first. Become a master of academic sessions and pen eloquent essays with the Academic test.

Whether it is career dreams or academic adventures, IELTS prepares you to experience the realistic usage of English while you’re abroad right from holding a casual conversation, to becoming a conqueror in academic essays, to even writing your thoughts down with ease!

B. Content focus of TOEFL

The key TOEFL and IELTS difference is that TOEFL offers to test you only on the basis of your academic proficiency. All the components test your ability to practice English in an academic setting such as your ability to hold academic conversations, read text materials, discuss in class professionally, and related aspects.

IELTS vs TOEFL: Who’s More Popular?

Be it IELTS or TOEFL, they are both widely available across the globe. They both do not lack test centres or resources. However, let’s find out the TOEFL difficulty and IELTS difficulty level in terms of access:

A. Availability of IELTS

1. Test centres and test dates

IELTS has test centres in major cities of India, including Hyderabad, Chennai, Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, etc. But don’t fret these are not the only ones. There are a few centres available in other surrounding cities as well.

For a paper-based test, the test dates are abundant to choose from. Although fewer for computer-based, they still provide plenty of date options for you to select. So be it computer or paper-based, there are a plethora of options to fit into your language quest.

2. Paper-based vs. computer-delivered options

You have the freedom to choose between two thrilling formats when taking the IELTS test: Computer-based and Paper-based. While the former lets you take Reading, Writing and Listening on a computer in a test centre. The latter, on the other hand, the classic paper test is like a good old-fashioned exam, where the pen-to-paper format is put to use at your designated exam center.

Between the two, they don’t vary in IELTS difficulty level, but based on your comfort - do you text more than you write? The computer-based one might be for you!

TOEFL is similar in availability. Just like the IELTS, it is widely administered across all of the primary hubs in India and some other cities as well. The test dates are equally available in plenty too. There’s no major difference in the IELTS vs TOEFL battle here.

2. Internet-based test (iBT) format

Is TOEFL easier than IELTS? Maybe not, but a welcome addition to the TOEFL that may not be present with IELTS so far is that apart from allowing you to take computer-based tests, TOEFL allows you to take the exam from the comfort of your home too! The TOEFL iBT (Internet-based test) lets you take the exam from home on a monitored screen. So if the prospect of quiet exam halls and an invigilator pacing up and down your aisle scares you, sit back at home and take it!

IELTS vs TOEFL: Give me the Goods!

The same way, rather than thinking about “Is TOEFL easier than IELTS”, the real question should be - “Which test has better materials to help me prepare?”.

A. Official preparation materials for IELTS

IELTS has plenty of resources to help you prepare for the test. In fact, as soon as you register to take the exam, they usually package you a treasure trove of helpful materials or simply an email of useful links that will give you a general idea of how the test will be.

Here are some helpful links you’ll thank us for:

Some IELTS experts run free, student-friendly practice pages that will guide you to ace the test:

Here are some links for conquering the test:

Since IELTS is run by The British Council in partnership with IDP, it is recognised by almost all Universities across the world. Currently, it is accepted by over 11,000 institutions across 140 countries. So it’s a safe bet that your University will recognise and accept it too.

B. Test Validity & Recognition: TOEFL

TOEFL too is valid for 2 years after the date of the exam, however, some immigration bodies recognise it for 3 years after the date of the exam as well.

It is also widely popular, being recognised by over an array of 160 countries including the US, UK, Australia and New Zealand.

Psst, we just want to let you know that if you’re contemplating TOEFL vs IELTS for USA - IELTS is more recognised in the UK or Australia, whereas TOEFL is preferred in Canada and the US.

IELTS vs TOEFL: What’s the Damage to my Wallet?

We can spend all our time comparing the difference between IELTS and TOEFL, and tell you “is TOEFL harder than IELTS?” or “is TOEFL easier than IELTS?” and all that, but let’s be real. Most of the time, it all comes down to money. Which is the cheaper test?

The answer to that really depends on your location. Based on where you stay, some tests are easier to access and conduct than others. So, do a quick cost check based on your place of stay to see the real TOEFL and IELTS difference in cost.

A. Cost of IELTS

For all versions of the test - paper or computer-based, academic or general, it is currently ₹16,250 in 2023. An additional fee of ₹250 will be levied to send your official scores directly to each university that you have applied

If you’re unhappy with your scores, instead of retaking the exam and paying the whole amount, you can also choose the ‘One Skill Retake’ option. This lets you choose and redo just one of the 4 modules. The cost for that depends on your location in India.

You can register and pay through any of these links:

You can register and pay at any of these links:

Okay, so IELTS vs TOEFL - how do I choose? Here are some things for you to consider:

Which country are you applying to?
What do most of the universities in that country prefer as a test of the English language?
Which of these two tests is the most accessible in your city?
Which format are you the most comfortable with?
What are the resources available to you?
Which test do you think you’ll do better at?

So, in conclusion of this epic battle of language proficiency tests, IELTS vs TOEFL have emerged as formidable contenders, each with its own unique strengths. While IELTS dazzles with its versatile approach, catering to both academic and professional pursuits, TOEFL shines as the Academic Wizard, focusing primarily on academic English. As language enthusiasts embark on the quest to choose the right test, it is crucial to consider individual goals, preferences, and financial constraints.

Good luck and a happy journey in advance!

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Frequently asked questions

- Is TOEFL harder than IELTS?

When we compare IELTS vs TOEFL, it all comes down to individual experience. Although there is no official verdict on this, most test-takers have found IELTS to be easier than TOEFL. The difficulty of TOEFL vs. IELTS varies for individuals based on their language skills and preferences. Both have unique challenges; TOEFL emphasises academic English, while IELTS covers a wider range of scenarios. Proper preparation is essential for success in either test.

- Can I request a score review or re-evaluation for IELTS or TOEFL?

Yes! For IELTS, you can request a re-evaluation of your total score within 6 weeks of receiving the results. For TOEFL, you are allowed to request a rescore for up to 30 days after getting your results. Both come with additional charges.

- Are there any age restrictions or limitations for taking IELTS or TOEFL?

No, anyone can take the test at any point, any number of times.

- Do universities or institutions prefer one test over the other for specific programs or countries?

Yes, although there is a general acceptance of either of these tests, some Universities or countries prefer one over the other. Research the places you’re applying to, to ensure you take the right test!

- Can I take IELTS or TOEFL multiple times to improve my scores?

Yes, you can retake both exams any number of times you require. Additionally, IELTS lets you retake just a single component of your test if you feel like one of them brought down your average.

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