English competency tests are absolutely important in deciding your eligibility for admission to universities overseas in the global intellectual scene of today. IELTS (International English Language Testing System) and TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) are two of the most widely accepted exams. Still, the key question is which one you should choose.
You're not alone if you're getting ready for abroad study and unsure about whether to choose IELTS or TOEFL. Many students struggle to decide without fully appreciating the subtleties of every test. This thorough IELTS vs TOEFL comparison helps in such a situation.
We shall dissect the main variations, test structure, scoring patterns, country preferences, and more on this blog. We will also discuss how the difference between IELTS and TOEFL influences university admissions and how Gateway International, a respected study abroad advisor, can help you at every stage.
What Are IELTS and TOEFL?
IELTS Overview
Three respectable companies co-own the IELTS: Cambridge Assessment English, IDP: IELTS Australia, and the British Council. More than 11,000 colleges all around—including US universities, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and even the UK—accept this test.
IELTS exists in two forms:
Academic IELTS- For applicants to professional registration and universities.
General Training IELTS- for either employment or immigration.
It assesses four important language competencies: speaking, reading, writing, and listening.
TOEFL Overview
In the United States, ETS (Educational Testing Service) distributes the TOEFL. More than 11,500 colleges in 160+ countries accept it as another top test for non-native English speakers.
Though paper-based versions still exist in a few places, the TOEFL iBT (Internet-Based Test) is the most commonly used format nowadays.
Section-wise Comparison of IELTS vs TOEFL
Choosing which test fits you better depends on knowing every test section. This is a thorough breakdown:
1. Listening:
IELTS:
Four monologues plus conversations
British, Australian, Canadian, and other accented voices
40 questions overall
Structures call for multiple-choice, matching, and sentence completion.
TOEFL:
2–3 conversations and 3–4 academic lectures
Predominantly American accents
Usually between 34 and 51 questions
Only using a multiple-choice approach.
Student Insight: IELTs could be simpler if you know several English accents. The TOEFL will be more familiar if you speak American English—that is, as used in movies or series.
2. Reading
IELTS:
3 reading passages
Covers analytical, factual, and descriptive works.
Questions range from multiple-choice, matching headings, short answers, etc.
TOEFL:
3-4 passages from scholarly works
Fully multiple-choice
Pay particular attention to vocabulary, inference, and detail-based comprehension.
Student Insight: Students who like structured responses may find the TOEFL's uniform multiple-choice system simpler. Students who are comfortable with mixed formats could find IELTS appropriate.
3. Writing
IELTS:
Task 1 (Academic): Interpret graph/chart/diagram data.
Task 1: Write a letter
Task 2: Essay grounded in opinion or argumentation
TOEFL
Task 1: Integrated writing—read and listen to a passage, then write.
Task 2: Essay on your initiative
Student Insight: IELTS presents a more conventional style of writing. The TOEFL tests your synthesis of knowledge.
4. Speaking
IELTS:
Face-to-face with a qualified examiner
Covers an introduction, individual speech, and debate.
TOEFL:
Presented via computer microphone
4 tasks grounded in academic knowledge and personal experience
Student Insight: While TOEFL fits those who would want to avoid in-person contacts, IELTS is better for students who are at ease speaking to others.
IELTS vs TOEFL: Scoring Differences
IELTS:
Every section gets a 9.
Four sections average and rounded to the closest 0.5, determines the final score.
TOEFL:
Every section is scored out of 30.
The overall result falls between 120.
Score Conversion Example:
IELTS Band TOEFL equivalent
9.0 121–118
8.5 Between 115 and 117
8.0 110–214
7.5 104–109
7.0 74–101
6.5 49–93
6.0, 60–78
See the full difference between IELTS and TOEFL to delve further into score interpretation and application cases.
Country Preferences: Where Is Each Test Accepted?
IELTS:
Not needed for UKVI (United Kingdom Visa and Immigration)
Considered preferred by Australian, UK, Canadian, and New Zealand institutions
Approved by many US colleges as well
TOEFL:
Mostly used in the US
Preferred by Canadian and American colleges
Generally approved throughout Asia and Europe.
Tip: Always find out test requirements by visiting the university's official website.
Retaking and Test Frequency
IELTS: Provided four times a month in most locations; no retaking limit
TOEFL: With a three-day check here interval between attempts, one can take as many times as necessary.
IELTS vs TOEFL: Which Is Easier?
There isn't a one-size-fits-all response. Nonetheless,
Choose IELTS if you feel confident speaking in person.
Choose TOEFL if you type quickly and listen to American English rather well.
IELTS (paper-based) may feel more familiar if you would rather take written tests.
How Gateway International Helps You Choose and Prepare?
Though it's only one step, choosing the appropriate English proficiency test is essential for your trip abroad. Gateway International fills in as your reliable guide here.
Why Students Trust Gateway International:
Personalized Counseling
To assist you in selecting the best-fit test, our professionals assess your academic goals, target countries, and comfort with test forms.
Mock Tests and Practice Materials
For both IELTS and TOEFL, access free and paid test preparation materials.
One-on-One Training Support
Get suggestions for coaching centers and certified trainers to improve your performance.
End-to-End Admission Support
We have your back from choosing colleges to SOP writing, LOR collecting, application submissions, and interview preparation.
Visa & Post-Admission Services
Help with copyright, financial records, and even pre-travel advice.
Final Thoughts
The IELTS vs TOEFL comparison will rely on your:
Desired place of research
Comfort with styles and accents
Writing, listening, and speaking: strengths
Admissions criteria for universities
Both tests are well-known and approved; you only have to choose which one best fits your objectives and areas of strength.
Should your uncertainty still exist, relax. Speak with Gateway International's professionals to help you through your whole study abroad plan, as well as the test selection.
Understanding the whole difference between IELTS and TOEFL will help you choose your best route.