What is the difference between IELTS and TOEFL?

Dear Ansuman, both are essentially qualifying tests for the aspirants looking for work or education opportunities abroad. The sections on which your knowledge of the English language is tested are also the same being Listening, speaking, reading and writing. The format of the two exams vary though. Also, IELTS is conducted by British authorities while TOEFL is administered by an American agency. Good luck. !! read less

While TOEFL is conducted by ETS, a nonprofit organization in the US, IELTS is jointly managed by the British Council, University of Cambridge, and IELTS Australia.One of the biggest differences between IELTS and TOEFL is that while IELTS assesses proficiency in British English, TOEFL measures proficiency in US English. Though both assess abilities in reading, writing, speaking, and listening, formats of the two tests are quite different. IELTS(0-9 Band;Independent tasks(L,R,W,S). TOEFL(120;Integrated tasks(ex:L+R+W)) IELTS and TOEFL favour different modes of thought and problem solving. As TOEFL is primarily multiple choice, students will need to be able to think analytically to weigh up the differences between their options. IELTS requires more use of memory, and draws on broader comprehension skills as students are faced with different question styles. read less

Hi Ansuman, Both are qualifying tests for any aspirant looking for work or education opportunities abroad. IELTS is accepted in large number of countries than TOEFL. Both however, tests you on similar dimensions of your knowledge of the languages such as reading, speaking, listening and writing. The format of the two papers though varies. Also, IELTS is administered by British Council while TOEFL is governed by American agency. Good luck. !! read less

IELTS (International English Language Testing System) and TOEFL(Test of English as a Foreign Language) are English language proficiency tests. These tests serve as measures to test English language skills in the areas of Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking. IELTS is a paper-based test, whereas TOEFL is a computer-based test. As regards formats, the differences are as follows: Skill IELTS TOEFL Listening 4 sections, 40 questions, 40 minutes 6 - 9 talks/lectures, 34-51 questions, 60-90 minutes Reading 3 passages, 40 questions, 60 minutes 3-4 passages, 36-56 question, 60 - 80 minutes Writing 2 tasks, 60 minutes 2 tasks, 50 minutes Speaking 3 parts, 14 minutes interview 6 questions, 20 minutes, answers to be recorded Besides the structural differences, there are differences depending on the country, where you wish to pursue your higher education. USA institutions, even though they have begun accepting IELTS scores, would prefer TOEFL scores. UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and institutions of Europe would prefer IELTS scores. In terms of testing times, IELTS will have Listening, Reading, and Writing on the same day. Speaking is conducted either till 3 days prior or till 3 days after L/R/W test day. TOEFL will have all sections conducted in a single sitting. In terms of ease of preparation, generally students find it easier to prepare for IELTS as it is paper-based. In TOEFL, as it is computer-based, students tend to find facing computer screen for 3.5-4 hours stressful and hence maintaining concentration becomes difficult. Having explained few salient differences, I would cautiously advise you to take a call based on your needs and preferences. Because, you are the best judge of your own-self. You decide what is best for you and act accordingly. What may be best for others, may not be best for you, and what may be best for you, may not be best for others. Hence, take informed decisions. All the best! read less

Both are English language tests. IELTS is more of British English while TOEFL is American English. The paper patterns are completely different. The test methodology and grading systems are also different. IELTS is on a band of 9 while TOEFL is out of 120. The sections are the same but the way the candidates are asked questions is quite different. TOEFL is an internet based test while IELTS is a paper based test read less