IELTS vs TOEFL: Which Should You Take?

IELTS and TOEFL are the two most widely accepted English tests for study abroad. Both are valid for most universities.

Where they're accepted

Both are accepted at universities in the US, UK, Canada, Australia, Ireland and New Zealand.

Format differences

IELTS Academic: Speaking is a face-to-face interview. TOEFL iBT: Speaking involves recording responses into a microphone.

Scoring

IELTS uses a 0–9 band scale. TOEFL uses a 0–120 scale.

Which is easier?

Neither is objectively easier. Students comfortable with face-to-face conversation often prefer IELTS Speaking.

Practical advice

Take a free practice test for both. Whichever feels more natural usually produces the better score.