IELTS vs TOEFL: Which One Should You Choose in 2025?



If you're thinking about taking an English test for school, work, or moving to another country, you might be wondering: should I take IELTS or TOEFL? Both tests are really popular and can open doors for your future, but they are different in many ways. This guide will help you understand the differences so you can choose the best one for your goals. Imagine you are applying to a top university or planning to move to another country for work.

The test you pick could be the key to unlocking these opportunities. Along the way, we’ll explore new opportunities these tests can unlock and highlight critical insights about their impact globally.

What Are IELTS and TOEFL?

What is IELTS?

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) checks how well you understand and use English. There are two types:

  • Academic: For going to college or getting professional certificates.
  • General Training: For moving to another country or going to high school.

    • IELTS is designed to test all the main aspects of communication: speaking, writing, reading, and listening. The Academic version focuses on tasks relevant to university or professional settings, while the General Training version assesses everyday language skills for migration or secondary education. It’s widely known for its practical format, especially for students aiming to migrate or study abroad.

    Read more about IELTS

    What is TOEFL?

    The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is used to see how well non-native speakers can handle English in school settings. Most people take the TOEFL iBT, which is done online and is great for college applications or getting certified for certain jobs.

    TOEFL is known for its academic focus, making it the top choice for students looking to study in universities where lectures, assignments, and group discussions happen in English. For example, institutions like Harvard University and MIT often list TOEFL as a requirement for international applicants.

    Read more about TOEFL

    How Are They Different?

    1. Test Format

    Feature IELTS TOEFL
    Speaking In-person interview (11–14 min) Online recorded responses (17 min)
    Writing 2 tasks (60 min) 2 tasks (50 min)
    Listening 30–44 min, 4 sections 41–57 min, 3–4 sections
    Readin 60 min, 3 sections (Academic) 54–72 min, 3–4 sections

    IELTS offers a face-to-face interview (IELTS also can be taken as computer based IELTS) for the speaking section, which many candidates find more natural. TOEFL, on the other hand, records your spoken responses digitally, which can be more convenient for tech-savvy test-takers.

    2. Scoring System

    Feature IELTS TOEFL
    Total Score 0–9 band scale 0–120 points
    Individual Skills Each skill scored 0–9 Each skill scored 0–30

    It is important to note that universities and institutions often interpret IELTS band scores and TOEFL points differently. For instance, an IELTS band score of 7.0 is generally equivalent to a TOEFL iBT score of around 94–101, which reflects strong English proficiency.

    IELTS uses a simpler 9-band scale that many people find easier to interpret. TOEFL’s numerical scoring system provides more detailed insights into your performance.

    3. Test Setting

    With IELTS, you’ll meet a person for the speaking part. For TOEFL, you record your answers on a computer. IELTS feels more personal, while TOEFL is all about being comfortable with technology.

    Where Are These Tests Accepted?

    IELTS

  • 140+ Countries: IELTS is popular in places like the UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
  • Moving Abroad: It’s the go-to test for people applying for residency.
  • Universities: Over 11,000 schools worldwide accept IELTS.
  • Job Markets: Many global organizations recognize IELTS as a standard for hiring employees who need strong English skills.

    • TOEFL

  • U.S. Colleges: More than 90% of American schools prefer TOEFL.
  • Worldwide: TOEFL is also gaining ground in Europe and Asia.
  • Jobs: Many companies in medicine, engineering, and law need TOEFL scores.
  • Scholarships: Some universities offer financial aid based on TOEFL performance, making it an appealing choice for students.

    • Numbers You Should Know

  • How Many Take These Tests?
    • ◦ IELTS: Over 3.5 million people each year.
    ◦ TOEFL: About 2.5 million people each year.
  • Average Scores for Schools:
    • ◦ IELTS Academic: 6.5–7.0.
    ◦ TOEFL iBT: 85–90.
    Knowing the average scores can give you an idea of what universities expect. For instance, Ivy League universities like Harvard or Yale often require higher scores, such as an IELTS band of 7.5 or TOEFL iBT above 100, whereas community colleges might accept lower scores around IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL iBT 80. Some top-tier schools might require even higher scores.

    What Can These Tests Do for Your Future?

    Why Pick IELTS?

    1. Two Test Options: It’s great for both school and moving to a new country.

    2. For Immigration: Many governments use IELTS for residency applications.

    3. Global Work: Recognized by lots of workplaces.

    4. Widely Trusted: Employers in industries like healthcare, engineering, and aviation often require IELTS scores to assess communication skills.

    Why Pick TOEFL?

    1. For U.S. Schools: Perfect if you want to study in the United States or Canada.

    2. Real-Life Skills: TOEFL focuses on how you’d use English in real situations.

    3. Scholarships: Some colleges offer scholarships to students with high TOEFL scores.

    4. Preferred in Research Fields: TOEFL’s academic focus makes it ideal for students pursuing advanced degrees or research opportunities.


    Knowing the average scores can give you an idea of what universities expect. For instance, Ivy League universities like Harvard or Yale often require higher scores, such as an IELTS band of 7.5 or TOEFL iBT above 100, whereas community colleges might accept lower scores around IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL iBT 80. Some top-tier schools might require even higher scores.

    How to Decide Which Test to Take

    Go With IELTS If:

  • You’re planning to move to the UK, Canada, Australia, or New Zealand.
  • You’d rather speak with a real person for the speaking part.
  • You want something accepted for both school and work.
  • You prefer a paper-based option for some sections.

    • Go With TOEFL If:

  • You’re aiming for American colleges or certifications.
  • You’re comfortable using a computer for everything.
  • You want a test that’s focused on school-related tasks.
  • You need to demonstrate advanced academic skills.

    • Key Points to Remember:

    1. IELTS is best for moving abroad and global recognition.

    2. TOEFL is perfect for academic goals, especially in the U.S. and Canada.

    3. Pick the one that matches your goals and learning style.

    Final Thoughts

    Both IELTS and TOEFL are great ways to show your English skills. Think about what you need the test for: is it for moving to another country, going to college, or getting a job? For migration, IELTS is usually the best pick. If you’re applying to schools in the U.S. or Canada, TOEFL might be better. Take your time to decide and prepare well—your future could depend on it! Explore practice resources like mock tests and preparation guides, and consider consulting with an advisor to create a focused study plan.

    In 2025, as global competition for academic and job opportunities grows, these tests remain vital tools for achieving your dreams. Choose wisely and start your preparation today!




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