IELTS vs TOEFL: Which Test Should You Take?
IELTS and TOEFL are the world's two most-accepted English tests. Choosing the right one saves you months of preparation. Here is a complete 2025 comparison.
Start TOEFL Preparation →Key Differences at a Glance
- IELTS: Paper-based or computer-based; uses British/Australian English; 2 hours 45 min
- TOEFL iBT: Computer-only; uses American English; about 2 hours
- IELTS Speaking: Face-to-face with a human examiner
- TOEFL Speaking: Recorded responses rated by AI + humans
- IELTS: Widely accepted in UK, Australia, Canada, New Zealand
- TOEFL: Preferred by many US universities
Which Test Is Easier?
Neither is universally easier. IELTS Speaking (with a real person) is more natural for conversational speakers. TOEFL Writing's integrated tasks suit academic writers. Your learning background matters: British English learners often prefer IELTS; American English learners prefer TOEFL.
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When to Choose IELTS
- UK, Australia, New Zealand, or Canadian immigration
- Prefer human interaction in the speaking exam
- Prefer short-answer reading questions over multiple choice
- Comfortable with pen-and-paper tests
When to Choose TOEFL
- US university applications (most institutions accept both; some prefer TOEFL)
- Comfortable with computer-based tests
- Stronger in integrated writing tasks
- Want score results that include detailed sub-scores
Frequently Asked Questions
Do most universities accept both IELTS and TOEFL?
Yes — the vast majority of universities in the UK, US, Canada, and Australia accept both. Always check the specific institution's requirements before deciding.
Is TOEFL harder than IELTS?
This depends on the individual. TOEFL's integrated tasks (reading + listening + writing/speaking) are often considered harder than IELTS's independent tasks. However, many students find IELTS Reading more difficult due to its question variety.
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