In today’s globalised world, proficiency in the English language is more than just a skill. It is the passage to academic excellence, career advancement, and international mobility. Whether you are aspiring to study abroad, migrate, or secure a global job, proving your command over English is essential. This is where IELTS and TOEFL come into play.
The IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is the world’s most recognised English proficiency test, trusted by governments in English-speaking countries, and universities and employers worldwide. Designed to assess your skills in listening, reading, writing, and speaking, IELTS reflects real-life use of English, from academic settings to social interactions. It is developed by Cambridge Assessment English, Cambridge University
On the other hand, the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is a widely accepted exam, especially in the US and Canada. It evaluates your critical thinking, communication, and analytical abilities through academic-style tasks across the four language skills.
Both exams serve the same purpose of certifying your ability to thrive in an English-speaking environment. The choice between them depends on your goals, test preferences, and comfort with different formats. Let’s delve deeper into the unique features of IELTS and TOEFL to help you make an informed decision about which exam suits your goals and strengths best.
IELTS vs TOEFL: What’s the Difference?
When choosing between TOEFL and IELTS, it’s essential to understand how they differ in format, scoring, and testing experience. While both evaluate English proficiency across four key skills—reading, writing, listening, and speaking, they are structured differently and cater to varied test-taking preferences.
IELTS, the International English Language Testing System, is recognised by more than 12,500 institutions in over 140 countries worldwide. The IELTS exam offers candidates the choice between paper-based and computer-based formats, ensuring greater flexibility in how they take the test.
Over 3.5 million test takers sit for IELTS each year, making it one of the most widely recognised English proficiency tests globally. Scores are awarded on a 1 to 9 band scale, and specific score requirements vary depending on your target institution or visa type.
TOEFL, or the Test of English as a Foreign Language, is conducted by the Educational Testing Service (ETS) and is accepted by over 13,000 institutions in more than 160 countries. The test is primarily internet-based (TOEFL iBT) and is especially popular among students aiming to study in the United States or Canada.
TOEFL evaluates your ability to understand and use academic English through integrated tasks, and over 40 million people worldwide have taken the test to pursue higher education or migration.
As of 2025, IELTS costs around INR 18,000, and TOEFL costs approximately INR 16,900. Both scores remain valid for two years. Choosing the right test depends on your destination, study preferences, and comfort with the exam format.
Are you unsure whether IELTS or TOEFL Is Right for you? Let ScholarshipKart help you make the smart choice! Our Expert counsellors guide you in selecting the most suitable test based on your goals, university requirements, and country preferences. Understand exam patterns, scoring, validity, and everything you need to know before registering.
IELTS vs TOEFL: Section-Wise Exam Structure
IELTS Section-wise Exam Structure:
If you are planning to take an English proficiency test in 2025, understanding the section-wise structure of IELTS and TOEFL is the first step towards focused and effective preparation. These tests evaluate your English skills across four core components—Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking, but their approach and format differ significantly. Let’s explore the IELTS syllabus 2025 in detail to help you choose wisely.
Types of IELTS Exams: Choosing the Right One
Before diving into the syllabus, it is important to identify which version of IELTS you need. Your objective, whether it's studying abroad, migrating, or working in an English-speaking country, will determine your exam type.
IELTS Academic: Designed for students aiming for university or professional registration, this version tests your ability to understand and use academic English. You will encounter tasks based on graphs, data interpretation, and academic texts.
IELTS General Training: Suitable for work or immigration, this version focuses on day-to-day English. You will work with texts like advertisements, handbooks, and informal communications.
IELTS for UKVI: Required for UK visa applications, this exam is available in both Academic and General formats.
IELTS Life Skills: Geared towards UK family and settlement visas, this test evaluates only listening and speaking abilities.
This table gives a clear overview of the IELTS test structure, helping you know what to expect in each section, whether You are taking the Academic or General Training version.
|
IELTS Section
|
Duration
|
Number of Tasks/Questions
|
What You'll Do
|
|
Listening
|
Around 30 minutes
|
40 questions
|
Listen to four recordings (conversations and monologues) and answer related questions.
|
|
Reading
|
60 minutes
|
40 questions
|
Read passages from books, newspapers, or journals and respond to various question types.
|
|
Writing
|
60 minutes
|
2 tasks
|
Task 1: Describe visual information or write a letter. Task 2: Write an essay in response to a point of view, argument, or problem.
|
|
Speaking
|
11–14 minutes
|
3 parts
|
Part 1: Introduction and personal questions. Part 2: Talk on a topic. Part 3: In-depth discussion on abstract ideas.
|
LetLet’s learn about each IELTS section in detail:
IELTS Listening Section
The Listening section in IELTS lasts for 30 minutes and includes 40 questions. You will listen to four audio recordings that increase in difficulty, covering various English-speaking accents such as British, Australian, Canadian, and American.
The recordings may include:
A casual conversation in a social setting
A solo speech about everyday topics
A group discussion in an academic context
An educational lecture or presentation
Tips for IELTS Listening Preparation:
Always test your headphones before starting.
Use the preview time to scan the upcoming questions.
Highlight keywords and listen for them carefully.
Answers should be written in capital letters to avoid spelling errors.
IELTS Reading Section
In the Reading section, you will be required to answer 40 questions within 60 minutes. This section tests how well you can read and comprehend written English in various formats.
For IELTS Academic:
You will get three long passages taken from academic journals, books, or newspapers.
These texts may include graphs, illustrations, or charts for analysis.
For IELTS General Training:
You will deal with a mix of short and long texts such as advertisements, notices, and extracts from handbooks.
Common Question Types:
True/False/Not Given
Multiple-choice questions
Matching headings to paragraphs
Sentence or summary completion
Tips for IELTS Reading Preparation:
Skim through the given 3 passages to get a general idea and then scan for details.
Keep track of time. Don’t dwell too long on one question.
Identify keywords and understand their synonyms in the text.
IELTS Writing Section
The Writing section is one hour long and consists of two tasks. Both versions of the exam, Academic and General, include different styles of writing.
For Academic IELTS:
Task 1 requires describing visual information such as graphs, tables, or charts.
Task 2 involves writing a formal essay, often based on an argument or opinion.
For General Training:
Task 1 involves writing a letter (formal, semi-formal, or informal).
Task 2 is an essay, similar to the Academic version but with simpler topics.
Tips for IELTS Writing Preparation:
Spend 20 minutes on Task 1 and 40 minutes on Task 2.
Keep your word count above the minimum (150 for Task 1 and 250 for Task 2).
Maintain a clear structure: introduction, body, and conclusion.
Avoid repetition and focus on clarity over complexity.
IELTS Speaking Section
This section lasts between 11 to 14 minutes and simulates a real-life conversation with an examiner. The interview may be conducted face-to-face or via video call.
It includes three parts:
Part 1: A brief personal introduction and general questions on familiar topics.
Part 2: You will receive a cue card and have one minute to prepare a two-minute talk.
Part 3: A discussion based on the topic from Part 2, with deeper, analytical questions.
Tips for IELTS Speaking Preparation:
Speak naturally and confidently rather than aiming for perfection.
Don’t memorise answers. It sounds artificial.
Organise your thoughts logically and support your points with examples.
Ask for clarification if you don’t understand a question.
Resources for IELTS 2025 Preparation
To succeed in the IELTS exam, having access to the right resources is vital. ScholarshipKart offers targeted study material, IELTS Masterclasses, practice tests, and guidance for both Academic and General formats. Our British Council-certified IELTS trainers can significantly boost your performance
The IELTS continues to focus on practical and academic English usage. Whether you are applying for higher education, employment, or migration, understanding each section’s structure is essential. Knowing the format inside out allows you to plan an effective preparation strategy tailored to your goals.
Start early, use authentic prep tools, and focus on your weak areas. The key to success lies in smart preparation and consistent practice. This table gives a fresh and easy snapshot of the TOEFL iBT structure, helping you understand what to expect in each section during the test.
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TOEFL iBT Section
|
Time Allotted
|
Number of Items
|
What You'll Do
|
|
Reading
|
Around 35 minutes
|
20 questions
|
Read two academic passages and answer comprehension questions based on the content, vocabulary, and main ideas.
|
|
Listening
|
About 36 minutes
|
28 questions
|
Listen to brief university-style lectures and conversations, then respond to questions that test understanding, tone, and intent.
|
|
Speaking
|
Roughly 16 minutes
|
4 tasks
|
Speak on familiar topics and academic scenarios by combining your reading and listening skills; responses are recorded.
|
|
Writing
|
Approximately 29 minutes
|
2 tasks
|
First, read a short text and listen to a related lecture, then write a response. Second, express your opinion in a brief written classroom discussion.
|
Let’s learn about each TOEFL section in detail:
TOEFL Section-Wise Overview
Unlike IELTS, TOEFL is primarily internet-based (TOEFL iBT) and follows a more academic structure. The test is structured into four key sections—Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing, each targeting a specific set of skills crucial for success in academic and real-world settings.
For instance, the TOEFL Speaking section includes responses to recorded questions instead of a live interview. Its Reading passages are longer and more academic, and the Writing section often combines listening and reading tasks in a single prompt.
The total test duration is just under 2 hours, but candidates are advised to allocate approximately 2.5 hours to include check-in procedures.
TOEFL iBT Reading Section (35 Minutes)
The Reading section of the TOEFL iBT measures your capacity to understand and analyse written academic material. You will be presented with two passages, each around 700 words in length, followed by ten questions related to each passage, amounting to a total of 20 questions.
These texts are adapted from university-level textbooks and cover a wide array of topics. Even if You are unfamiliar with the subject, every detail needed to answer the questions will be provided within the text itself. To assist test takers, a glossary is available to define uncommon terms.
This section lasts about 35 minutes and is designed to assess how well you can extract key ideas, interpret meaning, and evaluate information from written content, core skills for any academic journey.
TOEFL iBT Listening Section (36 Minutes)
The Listening portion evaluates your understanding of spoken English in academic scenarios. This includes grasping the speaker’s tone, level of certainty, main ideas, and how different pieces of information are connected.
The Listening section comprises:
3 lectures lasting 3–5 minutes each, including classroom interactions, with 6 questions per lecture.
2 conversations, each lasting approximately three minutes, are followed by five questions apiece.
These audio clips mirror real-life interactions that students commonly experience on university campuses. Test takers are allowed to take notes while listening, which can then be used to answer the questions. This section takes approximately 36 minutes to complete and includes a range of English accents, helping prepare candidates for international academic environments.
TOEFL iBT Speaking Section (16 Minutes)
The Speaking section assesses your ability to articulate thoughts clearly and effectively in academic contexts. The four tasks simulate situations where speaking in English is essential, such as classroom participation or summarising academic content.
Here’s a breakdown:
Task 1 (Independent Speaking): You respond to a question based entirely on your own experiences or opinions.
Tasks 2–4 (Integrated Speaking): These require a combination of reading, listening, and speaking, much like academic activities in real university settings.
Before answering, you will have 15 to 30 seconds to gather your thoughts, and your spoken response should last between 45 and 60 seconds.
The audio prompts include a mix of English accents from North America, the UK, Australia, and New Zealand. While the first task may use any accent, the subsequent tasks primarily feature North American
TOEFL iBT Writing Section (29 Minutes)
The Writing section is tailored to measure your ability to compose clear, coherent, and academically appropriate responses. It comprises two distinct tasks:
Integrated Writing Task (20 minutes): You begin by reading a short text and then listening to a brief lecture on the same topic. Your response should summarise key points and highlight how the lecture supports or contrasts with the reading.
Academic Discussion Task (10 minutes): This task mirrors a virtual classroom environment. You are expected to take part in a written discussion by expressing your opinion and supporting it with logical reasoning.
Responses are typed using a standard computer keyboard and are assessed based on organisation, coherence, grammar, vocabulary, and how well you support your arguments. In the Speaking section, your performance is assessed using a combination of automated scoring technology and evaluations by trained human raters. Your final score is again scaled between 0 and 30.
TOEFL and IELTS Minimum Score Requirement
Minimum IELTS Score Required to Study Abroad
For international students aiming to pursue education in English-speaking nations, particularly in destinations like the UK and Ireland, achieving a competitive IELTS score is often a non-negotiable entry requirement.
If you are planning to study abroad, especially in countries where English is the native language, knowing the required IELTS score thresholds is vital. While IELTS scores are generally accepted by most universities and colleges, the required minimum bands differ depending on the country, institution, and the level of the program you choose.
IELTS Requirements for Studying in the UK
If you are preparing to begin a new academic journey in the UK, the IELTS requirement depends heavily on both the course level and the visa category you are applying under.
University-Level Courses: To study at a UK university, you’ll need a minimum IELTS band score of 5.5 to 6.5, which corresponds to a B2 level on the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages).
Below University-Level Courses: For diploma or pre-university programs, a score between 4.0 and 5.0 (B1 level on the CEFR scale) is typically sufficient.
It is important to remember that while UK visa regulations define the minimum requirement, individual universities or programs may set higher IELTS scores, especially for competitive courses in law, medicine, or engineering. Therefore, checking each institution’s admission policy is essential.
Work Visa IELTS Requirements for the UK
Aspiring professionals aiming to work in the UK under visas like the Skilled Worker visa or the Health and Care Worker visa are required to demonstrate a basic command of the English language.
To meet eligibility, applicants must prove they can read, write, speak, and understand English at a B1 CEFR level, which equates to an IELTS score in the range of 4.0 to 5.0.
This benchmark applies whether you are an architect, nurse, journalist, or lab technician seeking work opportunities in the UK.
IELTS Score Criteria for Studying in Ireland
Ireland is becoming an increasingly popular destination for international students, and IELTS remains a standard requirement for most education levels.
For those enrolling in 2nd-level education, foundation programs, or English preparation courses, a minimum IELTS score of 4.0 is generally required.
If you are applying for undergraduate or postgraduate degrees in Irish universities, you’ll need to secure a higher band, typically 5.0 or above, to be considered eligible.
These scores ensure that students are prepared for the academic rigour of university-level learning in English.
Work Visa IELTS Requirements in Ireland
Unlike the UK, Ireland does not enforce a fixed IELTS score for work visa applicants. However, your employer may still expect you to demonstrate English language proficiency, especially for roles requiring direct communication or technical documentation. The required IELTS band will vary depending on the industry, job role, and employer preferences.
Whether you are planning to pursue higher education or explore career opportunities abroad, understanding the minimum IELTS score requirements in your target country is a critical step.
While visa guidelines often define basic language expectations, universities and employers may have their own, more specific standards.
To avoid surprises, always review the exact requirements listed by your chosen institution or employer. A strong IELTS score not only enhances your application but also boosts your confidence in navigating life, work, and studies in an English-speaking environment.
Surprising Similarities Between the IELTS and TOEFL Exam
While the IELTS and TOEFL are two of the most popular English language proficiency exams globally, they are often seen as very different. Yet, despite variations in format, question types, and testing style, these two tests share a number of important similarities that make them equally reliable choices for international students and professionals.
Let’s explore the key commonalities between the IELTS and TOEFL exams that you may not have considered.
Shared Objective: Testing English for Real-World Use
Both TOEFL and IELTS are designed with a common purpose: to assess how well a candidate can understand, communicate, and function in English-speaking environments. Whether you are applying to a university, migrating to an English-speaking country, or seeking employment overseas, both exams evaluate your readiness to operate in academic and professional settings where English is the primary language.
Comprehensive Skill Coverage: All Four Language Domains
Another major similarity lies in the structure of the test itself. Both IELTS and TOEFL assess the four core language skills essential for effective communication:
Reading – Understanding academic texts and information
Listening – Grasping the meaning in conversations or lectures
Speaking – Expressing ideas fluently and clearly
Writing – Constructing well-organised written responses
These sections ensure a balanced and holistic evaluation of your English language proficiency, leaving no skill unassessed.
Universally Accepted: Recognised Across the Globe
One of the biggest advantages of both exams is their widespread global acceptance. Whether you're applying to institutions in the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, Ireland, or New Zealand, you will find that nearly every major university, immigration office, and multinational employer accepts either IELTS or TOEFL scores as proof of English proficiency.
This global recognition gives you the flexibility to choose the test that best suits your preparation style without limiting your destination options.
Score Validity: Two-Year Window for Use
Both IELTS and TOEFL results come with a two-year validity period. This means that from the date you take the test, your scores will remain officially acceptable for 24 months. This window is considered appropriate by universities and governments alike, as language proficiency can change over time without practice.
No Limit on Attempts: Retake as Needed
If you are not satisfied with your performance the first time, don’t worry. Both tests allow unlimited retakes. Whether you’re aiming for a higher score for a scholarship, visa application, or competitive university program, you have the freedom to reappear as many times as needed, though it’s generally advised to prepare thoroughly before each attempt.
Test Format Options: Computer-Based Testing Available
While TOEFL is primarily computer-based, IELTS now also offers a computer-delivered version of the test. This allows candidates who are more comfortable with typing or digital navigation to take the exam in a more familiar format, with faster result processing and a quieter test environment. This similarity offers flexibility based on the candidate’s test-taking preferences.
Frequent Testing Dates: Regular Availability Worldwide
Both IELTS and TOEFL are held multiple times throughout the year, across hundreds of test centres worldwide. Whether you live in a metropolitan city or a smaller town, you will likely find an upcoming test date near you, making it easier to plan your applications in advance.
Though IELTS and TOEFL may differ in terms of test length, question style, and scoring systems, their core function remains the same: to measure a candidate’s English language skills in academic and professional contexts.
With similar structures, goals, global recognition, and flexibility, either exam can help you unlock international opportunities, from prestigious universities to permanent residency pathways.
If you are trying to choose between the two, consider your personal test-taking style, university requirements, and comfort with computer-based vs paper-based formats. Regardless of the path you choose, both IELTS and TOEFL will equip you with a valid, respected measure of your English language ability.
IELTS vs TOEFL: Which is Easier?
One of the most frequently asked questions by international students preparing to study abroad is whether TOEFL is easier than IELTS. The truth is, there’s no universal answer; what may be easier for one student could be more difficult for another. It all depends on your strengths, your preferred test-taking style, and your long-term academic or career goals.
If you are targeting an academic setting, like a university in the US, TOEFL might align better with your study plan due to its academic tone and integrated tasks. If your goal is more general, such as immigration, training, or studying in the UK, IELTS may be a more suitable choice. While both exams are accepted globally, IELTS tends to be more flexible and is often considered more accessible by non-native English speakers due to its clear structure and conversational format.
Comparison Breakdown: What Makes One Test Easier Than the Other?
To determine which test is easier for you, let’s examine the major sections and their distinct characteristics.
Writing Section
In the TOEFL, writing tasks are integrated with reading and listening passages. You are expected to comprehend a passage, listen to an audio clip, and then write your response based on both sources. This can be cognitively demanding if you are not confident in multitasking.
In contrast, IELTS offers two straightforward essay tasks, one descriptive and one argumentative, focusing more directly on your writing ability.
Speaking Section
The IELTS Speaking Test is conducted in a live, face-to-face setting with an examiner. It feels like a conversation, which many students find natural and comfortable.
TOEFL, on the other hand, requires you to speak into a microphone while responding to timed prompts. For some, this digital interaction feels robotic and can increase anxiety, especially without real-time feedback.
Reading and Listening
Reading in TOEFL typically includes more complex, academic material, while IELTS offers a mix of general and academic texts, making it more balanced. The listening section in both exams requires attention to detail, but IELTS includes a variety of accents (British, Australian, Canadian), whereas TOEFL focuses on North American English, important if you are more familiar with one over the other.
Scoring System
IELTS uses an analytical band-based system (0 to 9), scoring each section individually and averaging them. TOEFL uses a holistic 120-point system that can be advantageous for students who perform better overall rather than in individual skills. IELTS may seem tougher in areas like writing and speaking due to strict scoring criteria.
IELTS Vs TOEFL: Your Personal Preference Matters Most
When choosing between TOEFL and IELTS, your personal preferences and comfort with certain formats play a decisive role.
Prefer typing and multiple-choice questions? TOEFL might suit you better.
More comfortable with handwriting and varied question types? IELTS could be your go-to option.
Feel confident speaking with people? The IELTS' face-to-face Speaking test may feel easier.
Prefer digital tests and academic material? TOEFL offers that consistently.
Both tests are widely accepted by universities, immigration bodies, and employers across the globe. However, recent feedback from students suggests that nearly 80% find IELTS easier, especially because of its speaking format and clearer structure.
That said, neither test is objectively easier. Whether you choose IELTS or TOEFL, both can be conquered with the right preparation, and either one can open doors to your academic and career dreams abroad. Choose the one that complements your abilities, your own learning style and language proficiency and aligns with your destination's requirements, and helps you put your best foot forward.
IELTS or TOEFL: Which Test is Better?
When you are planning to study or migrate abroad, one question inevitably arises: "IELTS or TOEFL: which test is better?" The best answer is: It depends. Choosing between IELTS and TOEFL hinges on your personal strengths, preferred test format, and the country you're targeting. Since both exams are globally accepted for academic purposes, the right choice is the one that aligns with your comfort and goals.
What Are You More Comfortable With?
Your Strengths Matter
When comparing the two, you must evaluate your test-taking style. Are you more comfortable typing on a keyboard or writing by hand? Do you communicate better face-to-face or feel more confident speaking into a microphone?
Choose TOEFL if:
You are confident in a computer-based test environment.
You prefer multiple-choice questions and automated scoring, especially in speaking.
You are applying to universities in the US or Canada, where the TOEFL is more commonly accepted for academic admission.
Choose IELTS if:
You prefer the flexibility of paper-based or computer-based formats.
You are more at ease speaking to a real examiner face-to-face.
You are applying to universities in the UK, Australia, or Europe, or looking to migrate to countries like Canada, the UK, Australia, or New Zealand, where IELTS is the government-approved test.
Beyond Academics: Immigration and Flexibility
If your plan includes long-term immigration, then IELTS clearly has the upper hand. The UK and Canadian governments do not accept TOEFL scores for migration, and Australia only accepts TOEFL iBT (the longer version). IELTS, however, is recognised by immigration authorities in the UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
Additionally, IELTS offers greater flexibility. While TOEFL is mostly computer-based and less adaptable across countries, IELTS lets you choose whether to take the test on paper or computer in most locations. For test-takers who are more comfortable writing with a pen or require accessibility options, this is a significant advantage.
Key Differences That Make IELTS a Popular Choice
Time and Structure
IELTS General Training takes 2 hours 44 minutes plus 10 minutes of transfer time (around 165 minutes) and includes a wide variety of question formats like matching, diagrams, and true/false, not just multiple-choice.
TOEFL iBT spans 2 hours to complete, plus 30 minutes for check-in (116 minutes) and mostly includes multiple-choice questions, which may feel repetitive for some.
Speaking Test Format
In the TOEFL, you will be speaking into a microphone in a room full of other test-takers. There is no interaction with a human, and you may find the environment less personal.
IELTS Speaking is conducted in a private room with a trained examiner, making the experience more natural. You can even ask questions if you don't understand something, just like a real conversation!
Simplified Scoring
IELTS scores are rounded to the nearest 0.5, so if you score 6.75, it will be upgraded to 7.0.
TOEFL uses a more complex raw-to-scaled score conversion system, with no rounding advantage, which can make it harder to predict your final result.
To the best, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The better test is the one that fits your strengths, suits your learning and communication style, and aligns with your academic or immigration plans.
If you prefer a digital, US-style format with integrated academic tasks, TOEFL is your go-to.
If you want a flexible, globally recognised test with options for paper and computer formats, IELTS may be the smarter choice.
In short, TOEFL is ideal for academic applicants targeting North America, while IELTS is better for students and migrants aiming for the UK, Australia, or global destinations.
Make your choice wisely, not based on popularity, but based on what works best for you.
TOEFL vs IELTS: Score Comparison
When choosing between the TOEFL and IELTS exams, understanding how their scores compare is essential. While both exams evaluate your English language proficiency, they each follow distinct scoring methods. If you're applying to universities or looking for immigration opportunities, many institutions accept either test, but with specific score requirements.
Knowing how your TOEFL score translates to an IELTS band score (and vice versa) can help you make the right decision. To help you better interpret how TOEFL scores align with IELTS band scores, the following chart offers a side-by-side comparison. It can guide you in selecting the test that best matches your academic goals or professional requirements based on your target score.
TOEFL to IELTS Score Comparison Table
|
TOEFL iBT Score
|
IELTS Band Score
|
|
118–120
|
9.0
|
|
115–117
|
8.5
|
|
110–114
|
8.0
|
|
102–109
|
7.5
|
|
94–101
|
7.0
|
|
79–93
|
6.5
|
|
60–78
|
6.0
|
|
46–59
|
5.5
|
|
35–45
|
5.0
|
|
32–34
|
4.5
|
|
0–31
|
0–4.0
|
This comparison allows you to set achievable score targets aligned with the requirements of the universities or immigration authorities you plan to apply to. This comparison allows you to set achievable score targets aligned with the requirements of the universities or immigration authorities you plan to apply to.
IELTS vs TOEFL: Cost & Test Duration
When planning to take an English proficiency test, one crucial factor many students consider is the cost and time investment. Between IELTS and TOEFL, both exams are globally accepted, but their fees and durations differ slightly depending on your location and the exam format.
These differences not only impact your budget but also influence how well you can maintain focus and energy throughout the test. Whether you are applying to a university or for migration purposes, understanding the cost structure and time commitment of each test will help you make an informed decision.
Below is a quick comparison to help you choose the option that best suits your schedule and preferences.
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Exam
|
Cost (Approx.)
|
Test Duration
|
Mode of Examination
|
|
IELTS
|
₹18,000
|
2 hours 45 minutes
|
Paper-based & Computer-based
|
|
TOEFL iBT
|
₹16,900
|
1 hour 56 minutes
|
Computer-based (Internet-Based Test only)
|
While IELTS tends to be slightly more expensive, it offers more flexibility with both paper and computer-based formats. TOEFL, on the other hand, is a shorter test but is conducted only on a computer, which might benefit those who are comfortable with digital platforms.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to your budget, comfort with the test format, and how long you can stay focused under exam conditions.
IELTS vs TOEFL: Country-Wise Score Requirements
The required TOEFL and IELTS scores differ based on the country, university, and specific academic program you choose. Prestigious institutions often set higher benchmarks to ensure applicants possess strong English proficiency.
However, some universities may offer conditional admissions if your score falls just below their standard requirement. It's important to research individual universities to understand their exact expectations. Here is a general overview of minimum score requirements across popular study destinations.
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Country
|
Minimum IELTS Score Required
|
Minimum TOEFL Score Required
|
|
UK
|
6.0 – 7.5
|
80 – 100
|
|
USA
|
6.0 – 7.0
|
80 – 100
|
|
Canada
|
6.0 – 7.0
|
86 – 100
|
|
Australia
|
6.0 – 7.0
|
79 – 100
|
|
Germany
|
6.0 – 6.5
|
80 – 95
|
|
New Zealand
|
6.0 – 6.5
|
80 – 100
|
Ready to Start Your IELTS Test Prep Journey? Book a Free schedule for IELTS Test Preparation with ScholarshipKart. We provide a comprehensive collection of study materials, including practice tests, sample questions, expert tips, and in-depth guides for IELTS.
ScholarshipKart offers complete support, from booking exam dates and accessing preparation materials to tracking results and planning your next steps. Whether it's IELTS or TOEFL, we are with you every step of the way to ensure your study abroad dream becomes a reality.
Frequently Asked Questions on IELTS vs TOEFL
- Which test is more accepted: TOEFL or IELTS?
Both tests are widely accepted globally. TOEFL is preferred in the US and Canada, while IELTS is commonly required by universities in the UK, Australia, New Zealand, and Europe.
- How many times can I take the TOEFL or IELTS?
You can retake both TOEFL and IELTS as many times as needed. There is no official limit on attempts, but make sure to space them wisely for improvement.
- What is the validity of TOEFL and IELTS scores?
Both TOEFL and IELTS scores remain valid for two years from the test date. After that, you will need to retake the test for updated results.
- Which is easier: TOEFL or IELTS?
That depends on your strengths. IELTS suits those comfortable with face-to-face speaking and varied question types, while TOEFL is ideal for students used to computer-based, multiple-choice formats.
- When should I take the IELTS before applying to a UK university?
Ideally, take the IELTS test 6–12 months before your university application deadline. This allows time for results, retakes (if needed), and application processing.
- What if I don’t understand the interviewer during the IELTS Speaking test?
You can respectfully ask the examiner to repeat or clarify the question. IELTS examiners are trained to handle such situations professionally.
- What is the cost of IELTS and TOEFL? Is it a one-time payment?
In India, IELTS costs around ₹18,000 and TOEFL around ₹16,900. Yes, these are one-time fees per attempt, and each retake requires a new payment.