What Are The TOEFL / IELTS? - Exam Comparison - Choosing the Right Test

Oct 2, 2026

Uploaded by Aurelia

The TOEFL and IELTS are widely accepted English proficiency tests required by most universities as part of international admissions. The two exams assess listening, reading, writing, and speaking, with test fees varying by location. TOEFL is a longer test and uses a microphone-based speaking format, while IELTS requires face-to-face speaking with an examiner. Scoring differs, results remain valid for 2 years, and waiver eligibility depends on each university.

LanguageEnglish

CategoryExam

FormatPDF

Pages1

Reading Time3 min

AccessFree to download

TOEFL and IELTS Overview

Acceptance and Admission Requirements

Test Format and Speaking Differences

Scoring and Administration

Fees, Validity, and Retake Policy

University Waivers and Decision Guidance

What Are The TOEFL / IELTS? The TOEFL (Test of English as a foreign language) and the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) are two popular choices of English proficiency tests, and are accepted by most universities. Most colleges require international students to have completed one, with the grade requirements and preference (if any) clearly stated on the website, as part of the admission process. Some colleges may waive this requirement if certain prerequisites are met. • Both evaluate how well you can combine your listening, reading, writing and speaking skills. You have to pay a separate fee to take both tests. Fees can vary, depending on where you take the test, but expect to pay between $170 to $250. • The TOEFL is a 4 hour-long test, whereas the IELTS is 2 hours 45 minutes. • One of the main differences is the speaking part of the test. For IELTS, you are required to take the exam face to face with an IELTS examiner. For TOEFL. the speaking test consists of six questions which you answer into a microphone. These are recorded and sent to an examiner to mark. • The scoring system is also different. IELTS, rates you between 0 and 9, with halfway points inbetween. TOEFL gives a more numerical SAT-style grade, totaling your scores from all areas. • TOEFL is administered by the Educational Testing Service, a non-profit US based organization, and conducts its test according to US English. IELTS is administered jointly by the British Council, the University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations and IDP Education Australia, and conducts its test in UK English. • The differences between the two are not significant, but the spelling variations or accent differences could pose a problem for some students. Browse through the guides for both, before deciding which one to take. • Test results are valid for 2 years and you can retake the exam as many times as you like. It is important that you check the University website before taking your English proficiency exam, not only to see if there is an exam preference or a minimal score requirement but also if you are eligible for a waiver.

FAQs

Why do universities require TOEFL or IELTS for international applicants?

Most universities ask international students to complete either TOEFL or IELTS as part of the admission process, including specific grade requirements stated on their websites. Some may waive the requirement when certain prerequisites are met.

How do TOEFL and IELTS evaluate language skills?

Both tests evaluate how well candidates combine listening, reading, writing, and speaking skills. Fees are required for each test and vary depending on where the test is taken.

What are the key differences in speaking format and scoring?

IELTS requires face-to-face speaking with an IELTS examiner, while TOEFL speaking includes six microphone-recorded questions sent to an examiner. IELTS uses a 0–9 rating scale with half points, while TOEFL provides a more numerical SAT-style score based on totals.

How long are TOEFL/IELTS results valid, and can students retake the tests?

Test results are valid for 2 years, and students can retake the exam as many times as they like. Applicants should also check the university website for any waiver eligibility and minimal score or preference requirements.

Oct 2, 2026

Uploaded by Aurelia