IELTS vs TOEFL: Which Exam Should You Take?

A detailed comparison to help you choose between IELTS and TOEFL.

Overview

IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is British-based, accepted in 140+ countries.

TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is American-based, preferred by US universities.

Format Comparison

Listening

IELTS: 30 min, various accents | TOEFL: 41-57 min, mainly American accent

Reading

IELTS: 60 min, 3 texts | TOEFL: 54-72 min, 3-4 passages

Writing

IELTS: 60 min, describe a chart + essay | TOEFL: 50 min, integrated task + essay

Speaking

IELTS: 11-14 min, face-to-face with examiner | TOEFL: 17 min, recorded responses to computer

Scoring

IELTS: 1-9 band scale | TOEFL: 0-120 points

Which to Choose?

• Applying to UK/Australia/Canada? → IELTS
• Applying to US universities? → TOEFL
• Prefer talking to a person? → IELTS
• Prefer computer-based tests? → TOEFL