IELTS vs TOEFL | Iran Australia

Regarding academic or work migration, one of the first challenges for applicants is choosing between the most popular English proficiency tests: IELTS and TOEFL. Both are among the most recognized international exams worldwide, taken by millions of candidates annually. But the main question is: What is the difference between IELTS and TOEFL, and which is your choice?

This comprehensive article has been written to answer precisely that question. We will introduce IELTS and TOEFL, review their similarities and differences, compare their sections, scoring systems, test duration, international recognition, costs, and finally help you decide which test best suits your goals. If you are about to make a big decision, this guide can be your roadmap.

Similarities Between IELTS and TOEFL

Although different organizations conduct IELTS and TOEFL and follow different scoring systems and structures, they share many similarities. Both are designed to measure your overall English proficiency, and both assess the four core skills:

• Listening: Understanding spoken English in different contexts.
• Reading: Analyzing and comprehending academic or general texts.
• Writing: Producing essays, reports, or analytical texts.
• Speaking: Demonstrating oral communication and interaction skills.

In other words, if you are strong in all four skills, you can succeed in either exam. The differences, however, will guide you toward choosing the test that matches your personal goals.

Structure of the Two Tests

Exam structure is one of the most important aspects of comparing IELTS and TOEFL. Both assess the same four skills, but the format and question style differ significantly.

Listening:

The listening section of IELTS has 40 questions and lasts about 30 minutes. Candidates listen to short and long conversations and lectures, often with varied accents such as British, Australian, or New Zealand.

The listening section in TOEFL is longer around 60 to 90 minutes and focuses mainly on academic lectures and classroom discussions. The dominant accent is American, and questions often require analyzing academic and scientific content.

Reading:

IELTS reading includes 40 questions within 60 minutes. The texts in the Academic version are academic and scientific, while those in the General Training version are simpler and more practical.

TOEFL reading consists of 3 to 5 academic passages of about 700 words each, with 36 to 56 related questions. The section lasts 60 to 80 minutes and requires fast, accurate reading of dense academic material.

Writing:

The writing test in IELTS has two tasks. Task 1 (Academic) asks candidates to describe and analyze data (charts, graphs, tables), and Task 2 requires writing an essay.

The TOEFL writing section also has two parts: an Integrated Task (writing based on a passage and an audio lecture) and an Independent Task (an essay expressing personal opinion). Unlike IELTS, TOEFL writing is computer-based and requires fast typing.

Speaking:

IELTS speaking is conducted face-to-face with an examiner and lasts 11–14 minutes. It resembles a real conversation, giving candidates a more natural experience.

The speaking section of the TOEFL is computer-based. Candidates record their answers into a microphone, and responses are evaluated later. This section includes six tasks and lasts about 20 minutes. Some test-takers find this format more stressful due to the lack of human interaction.

Scoring Systems

IELTS is scored on a band scale of 0–9. Each skill receives an individual score, and the overall band is the average. Many universities require a minimum of 6.5 or 7.

TOEFL is scored on a scale of 0 to 120. Each section has 30 points, for a total of 120 points. U.S. universities generally require a score between 80 and 100.

Test Duration

Another key difference is exam duration. IELTS takes around 2 hours and 45 minutes, whereas TOEFL lasts almost 4 hours. If sitting through a long exam is difficult, IELTS might be the better option.

International Recognition

IELTS is more widely recognized in Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and Commonwealth countries. IELTS is usually preferred if you are applying to institutions in these regions.
TOEFL has traditionally been more popular in the United States and Canada. However, many European universities now accept TOEFL scores, though IELTS remains the dominant choice in Europe.

Suitability for Candidates

Your choice between IELTS and TOEFL largely depends on your preferences. If you are more comfortable with British or Australian accents, IELTS may suit you better. If you are used to American English, TOEFL might be the easier option.
Similarly, IELTS is usually more practical if your target country is in Europe or Australia. For U.S. or Canadian institutions, TOEFL is often the go-to exam.

Cost and Frequency

The cost of both exams is similar, usually ranging from $250 to $300. Both are offered multiple times a year, and retaking them is not restricted.

Advantages and Disadvantages of IELTS

Advantages:

• Shorter exam duration compared to TOEFL.

• Face-to-face speaking interview feels more natural.

• Widely accepted in Europe, Australia, and New Zealand.

Disadvantages:

• Listening can be challenging due to varied accents.

• Time pressure in the reading section.

Advantages and Disadvantages of TOEFL

Advantages:

• Suitable for candidates comfortable with fast typing.

• Focuses on American English.

• Fully computer-based with a consistent structure.

Disadvantages:

• Longer duration, which can be tiring.

• Speaking via a microphone can feel stressful.

Which Test Is Right for You?

IELTS is the ideal choice if your destination is Australia, New Zealand, or Europe. TOEFL may be more suitable if you are heading to the U.S. or Canada.
Ultimately, the decision depends on your migration or academic goals, personal strengths, familiarity with accents, and preferred exam style.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Which test is more challenging: IELTS or TOEFL?

It depends on your personal strengths. Some find IELTS easier, while others prefer TOEFL.

2. Do U.S. universities accept IELTS?

Yes, many universities in the U.S. accept IELTS, but TOEFL remains more common.

3. Which test is better for migration to Australia?

The Australian immigration authority officially recognizes IELTS.

4. Is IELTS more expensive than TOEFL?

Their costs are usually similar and vary slightly by location.

5. Which test is less stressful?

IELTS is often considered less stressful due to its face-to-face speaking test.

6. Can I take these exams multiple times?

Yes, there is no limit on the number of attempts for either exam.

Conclusion

IELTS and TOEFL differ in structure, duration, scoring, accents, and overall format. Your choice should be based on your destination, academic or migration goals, and personal comfort. Both exams are equally valid, and you can achieve the score you need with proper preparation.