IELTS vs TOEFL: Which test should you take for studying abroad?
Unsure whether to take IELTS or TOEFL for studying abroad? This guide compares test structures, scores, and preparation tips to choose the best English proficiency exam for your study destination.
Planning to study abroad and unsure whether to take IELTS or TOEFL? These two exams are the most widely accepted English language proficiency tests used by universities, visa offices, and scholarship bodies around the world. Choosing the right one depends on your destination country, personal strengths, and university requirements.
In this blog, you'll find a full comparison between the tests, insights into IELTS score requirements, a TOEFL preparation guide, and a look at university expectations. All are designed to help you make the best choice for your study goals.
Why English language tests matter for studying abroad
If you're applying to universities in English-speaking countries like the USA, UK, Canada, Australia or Ireland, proving your English proficiency is essential for both academic admission and visa approval.
IELTS (International English Language Testing System) and TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) are the two most widely recognised tests that help you demonstrate this proficiency.
IELTS vs TOEFL: Test structure comparison
Feature | IELTS | TOEFL |
|---|---|---|
Test Format | Paper-based and computer-based | Internet-based (computer only) |
Speaking Format | Face-to-face interview with the examiner | Recorded answers via a microphone |
Total Duration | ~2 hours 45 minutes | ~3 hours |
Scoring Range | 1 to 9 (band score) | 0 to 120 |
Accepted In | UK, Australia, Europe, Canada | USA, Canada, Europe, Asia |
Test Availability | 4 times/month (frequent) | Weekly |
Section-by-section breakdown
1. Listening
IELTS: Four sections featuring both academic and everyday contexts, with a variety of accents.
TOEFL: University-style lectures and conversations, primarily in an American accent.
2. Reading
IELTS: Three reading passages taken from books, journals and newspapers.
TOEFL: Three to four academic reading passages with multiple-choice questions.
3. Writing
IELTS: Task 1 (describe a graph or table) and Task 2 (essay).
TOEFL: One integrated task (read, listen and write) and one independent essay.
4. Speaking
IELTS: In-person interview in three parts, designed to be conversational and interactive.
TOEFL: Four recorded tasks using a microphone, with no live interaction.
Which test is easier? A student-centric view
It depends on your strengths and preferences:
Strengths | Best Test |
|---|---|
Good with American English | TOEFL |
Prefer face-to-face communication | IELTS |
Strong essay-writing skills | TOEFL |
Better at visual data interpretation | IELTS |
Both tests evaluate similar language skills but differ in how they are delivered. Try out practice questions from each to see which format works better for you.
IELTS score requirement vs TOEFL scores
Most universities have minimum score requirements. Here’s a quick look:
University | IELTS Requirement | TOEFL Requirement |
|---|---|---|
Harvard | 7.5+ | 100+ |
Oxford | 7.5+ | 110+ |
University of Toronto | 6.5–7.0 | 90–100 |
Monash University | 6.5–7.0 | 79–100 |
Always check the latest score requirements on the university’s official website.
TOEFL preparation guide and tips
Study abroad exams need solid preparation. For TOEFL, try these tools and tips:
Top Platforms
ETS Official Guide
Magoosh TOEFL Prep
Note full
TST Prep
Test Prep Tips
Practice typing essays (TOEFL is fully digital)
Listen to academic podcasts and lectures
Use speech-to-text tools, such as ChatGPT, to sharpen your spoken responses
Time your practice sessions to simulate real exam conditions
IELTS preparation and strategy tips
Top Tools
British Council practice tests
IELTS Liz and IELTS Simon blogs
IDP prep kits
YouTube speaking simulations
Test Prep Tips
Practice speaking to a live interviewer
Focus on handwriting if taking the paper-based test
Improve your graph and chart interpretation skills
Review past essay questions to predict common themes
Study abroad eligibility: Which test is accepted where?
Country | Preferred Test(s) |
|---|---|
USA | TOEFL (most common) |
UK | IELTS (required for visa) |
Australia | IELTS, PTE |
Canada | Both TOEFL & IELTS |
Germany | OEFL/IELTS accepted |
New Zealand | IELTS preferred |
Some countries require specific formats for visa purposes (e.g. IELTS for UKVI in the UK), so make sure your chosen test aligns with immigration guidelines.
Test | Cost Range | Validity | Retake Option |
|---|---|---|---|
IELTS | $250–$265 | 2 years | Yes, no limit |
TOEFL | $180–$250 | 2 years | Yes, no limit |
Test retakes and flexibility
Both IELTS and TOEFL allow unlimited retakes, but:
You must pay the full test fee each time
TOEFL allows retakes every 3 days
IELTS retakes are typically available every 2 to 3 weeks
Summary: IELTS vs TOEFL – which should you choose?
Choose IELTS if:
You’re applying to the UK, Australia or New Zealand
You prefer face-to-face speaking tests
You’re stronger at interpreting visual data like charts or graphs
Choose TOEFL if:
You’re applying to the USA or Canada
You’re comfortable with computer-based exams
You prefer multiple-choice and academic reading formats
Both tests can help you qualify for study abroad, as long as they match your university’s and country’s requirements.
Final thoughts
Choosing between IELTS and TOEFL is a personal decision based on your study destination, language strengths and test format preferences. Start by identifying the tests accepted by your target universities, then prepare accordingly.
