Berakah Study Abroad

September 9 2025

IELTS or TOEFL For Study Abroad | Which Test Should You Choose?

If you are planning to study abroad, you will need to prove you can handle English in real-life academic situations. That means listening to lectures, joining discussions, and writing essays with ease. For most students, it comes down to two big names that is IELTS and TOEFL. Both these English proficiency exams are trusted for years and both open doors worldwide, yet they feel very different once you are in the exam room. The IELTS or TOEFL for study abroad choice is not just a tick on your checklist. It is about picking the one that lets you show your strengths.

Understanding the Essentials: What are IELTS and TOEFL?

IELTS refers to standardised English proficiency exam. Think of these exams as two different routes to the same destination. They test the same core skills, but the journey, the format, the style, even the atmosphere can vary a lot.

What is IELTS?

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) offers two versions: Academic, for students heading to university, and General Training, often for migration or work. Managed by the British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia, and Cambridge Assessment English, it is recognised across the globe. One thing many students remember is the speaking section, you sit across from an examiner and have a real conversation. For some, that is easier than talking into a microphone; for others, the part makes their palms sweat.

What is TOEFL?

The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is run by ETS and is most commonly taken in the iBT format. Everything -reading, listening, speaking, and writing happens on a computer. When you speak, your answers are recorded. This can feel less pressuring if you prefer not to have someone looking at you while you talk.

Key Differences: IELTS vs. TOEFL Exam Formats and Structure

Understanding the key differences between IELTS vs TOEFL for international students helps you know the structure and format of those examinations. Once you know the basics, it is important to understand the differences, it became clearer, and they can matter more than you think.

Test Format: Computer-Based vs. Human Interaction

IELTS examination can be taken on paper or computer, but you will always speak to a live examiner. TOEFL is entirely digital and speaking included in it.

Scoring Systems: Band Scores vs. Numerical Scale

IELTS uses a 0–9 band system. TOEFL gives you up to 30 points per section, with a total score out of 120. The TOEFL scale is more detailed; IELTS bands are simpler to read.

Question Types: Variety vs. Multiple-Choice Focus

IELTS mixes question types- matching, short answers, diagrams, multiple-choice. TOEFL relies more on multiple-choice, with integrated tasks combining reading, listening, and writing or speaking.

Test Purpose and Versions

IELTS has Academic and General Training. TOEFL sticks to one main version aimed at academic readiness.

Section-by-Section Comparison: A Deeper Look

Breaking each section down makes the choice less overwhelming. There are some differences between IELTS vs TOEFL to know before appearing it.

Listening Section Nuances

IELTS listening uses a mix of British, Australian, and North American accents and blends academic talks with everyday conversations. TOEFL focuses mostly on American English in a university setting. If you have grown up listening to one accent more than others, that might make a difference.

Reading Section Approaches

IELTS Academic includes scholarly texts; General Training features more practical reading material. TOEFL reading is strictly academic. Both require fast scanning for details and skimming for main ideas.

Writing Section Tasks

IELTS gives you two writing tasks — one is data interpretation (Academic) or letter writing (General Training), followed by an essay. TOEFL starts with an integrated writing task and ends with an independent essay. Good time management is necessary in both.

Speaking Section Dynamics

IELTS speaking feels like an interview. TOEFL speaking is recorded. Whether you shine more in conversation or when speaking to a screen can affect your score.

University Acceptance and Regional Preferences

English proficiency tests like IELTS and TOEFL are accepted worldwide, but preferences and score requirements differ across regions, with American universities, the UK, Australia, Canada, and other Commonwealth countries following specific criteria that applicants must meet to prove English proficiency and secure admission. Moreover, your study destination often plays a role in your decision.

Global Acceptance and Institutional Preferences

IELTS is favoured in the UK, Australia, and Commonwealth countries. TOEFL is common in the US and Canada. Many universities accept both, but checking your chosen institution’s policy is always safer.

Perceived Difficulty: Which Exam is "Easier".

Some find IELTS easier because of its varied question types and live speaking test. Others prefer TOEFL’s predictable, computer-based approach. The truth is, whichever you practise more will probably feel easier.

Translating Scores: IELTS, TOEFL, and CEFR Levels

The CEFR framework measures language proficiency on a global scale. It ranges from beginner (A1) to advanced (C2). IELTS and TOEFL scores can be compared to CEFR levels using conversion tables. These tables give an approximate match between test scores and CEFR bands. Exact equivalence may vary. Some institutions may not accept these conversions for official purposes.

If you are applying to multiple universities, you might need to compare scores. An IELTS band 7 roughly matches a TOEFL score in the mid-90s, both equal to a C1 level in CEFR terms — though these are only estimates.

Making Your Informed Decision: Which Exam Should YOU Take?

When choosing between exams, consider your personal strengths, target destination’s requirements, and comfort with speaking English and understanding different accents, preferred test format, timeline for receiving scores, and long-term study goals to make an informed decision. This is about more than just the test content; it is about matching the exam to how you work best.

Self-Assessment: Understanding Your Strengths and Preferences

Ask yourself if you do better speaking face-to-face or into a microphone, and which accents you are most comfortable with.

Researching Your Target Institutions' Requirements

Some universities list both exams equally, but others prefer one. Ensure to check your target institutions’ requirements early to avoid problems later.

Considering Test Logistics and Support

Practical details like test dates, location, cost, and preparation resources can influence your choice as much as the exam format.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Which English Proficiency Test is More Widely Accepted Globally?

Both IELTS and TOFEL examination have global reach and IELTS leads in Commonwealth countries and TOEFL dominates in the US. It entirely depends on the institution’s requirements.

2. Can I Convert My IELTS Score to TOEFL or Vice Versa?

Yes, but conversions of IELTS Score to TOEFL or Vice Versa are unofficial and it may not be accepted by all universities. Therefore, before converting it check with it.

3. How Do IELTS and TOEFL Scores Map to CEFR Levels?

IELTS and TOEFL Scores Map can be linked to CEFR levels, but it is a rough match rather than an exact one.

Conclusion

Choosing between IELTS or TOEFL for study abroad is about finding the one that plays to your strengths and satisfies your university’s requirements. Both are respected, and both can help you reach your goal. Whether you lean toward IELTS vs TOEFL for its format or regional advantage, preparation will make the difference.

At Berakahelite, the best study abroad consultancy, we have guided students through this choice and helped them succeed. Pick your path, prepare well, and you will be ready for that exciting first step into your future.

Author : Jasmin Joseph

I’m Jasmin Joseph, Regional Manager at Berakah Elite Education, with over 11 years of experience in international student recruitment and counselling. As a British Council Certified Counsellor, I hold an MBA in Human Resources, along with certifications from ICCC and ICEF.I have successfully facilitated student placements across the UK, US, Canada, Europe, and Asia, while leading our regional operations and business development network. My focus is on building strategic partnerships and providing tailored guidance to help students achieve their global education goals.