Choosing the right exam depends on your target country, preferred test format, and how you perform under time pressure. Here’s the 2025 breakdown.
Test format essentials
IELTS Academic and General Training are available on paper or computer, and Speaking is always face-to-face with an examiner. This suits candidates who prefer natural conversation and handwritten planning.
TOEFL iBT is fully computer-based. You listen to university-style lectures, respond to integrated prompts, and type both essays. If you thrive in digital environments and like taking notes on screen, TOEFL may feel seamless.
Map your previous exam experiences: students who excelled in debate clubs or interviews often prefer IELTS, while those comfortable with online lectures and rapid typing feel at home with TOEFL.
Scoring, results, and acceptance
IELTS reports band scores from 0 to 9 for each skill with half-band increments. Test centers usually release results in 3–5 days (computer) or 13 days (paper).
TOEFL provides scaled scores from 0 to 30 per skill (total 120), often within four days. Many US universities list TOEFL minimums, but most now accept IELTS equivalencies as well.
Always verify whether your destination requires IELTS for UKVI, Canadian immigration (General Training), or professional registration. Some programmes accept TOEFL overall but still request IELTS for visa filing—plan accordingly.
Which exam showcases your strengths?
Choose IELTS if you prefer conversational speaking tests, need flexibility between paper and computer formats, or handwriting diagrams helps you think. Band descriptors reward clarity and natural fluency.
Pick TOEFL if you type quickly, enjoy summarising audio passages, and like integrated tasks that combine listening, reading, and speaking. The iBT exam mirrors North American classroom scenarios and emphasises note-taking.
Consider the test-day environment: IELTS Speaking happens in a quiet room, whereas TOEFL Speaking takes place in a shared hall with other candidates speaking simultaneously. Your comfort level here affects scores more than you might expect.
- IELTS: ideal for UK/Australia/Canada visas, nursing and engineering registration, and students wanting flexible delivery modes.
- TOEFL: ideal for US-bound applicants, test takers confident with integrated prompts, and candidates relying on fast typing.
Cost, availability, and prep timeline
Test fees vary by country, but both exams cost roughly USD 195–260. Check local availability; some regions offer daily IELTS computer sessions, while TOEFL dates might sell out months ahead.
Create a preparation calendar that accounts for score delivery and potential retakes. If you need results for a scholarship in six weeks, choose the exam with the most flexible booking options in your city.
Factor in prep resources. IELTS offers abundant speaking clubs and band descriptors, while TOEFL has official TPO (Test Practice Online) sets replicating the iBT interface.
Decision framework
List your target schools and immigration bodies, note which test each prefers, and highlight any skill-specific minimums. Then sit a diagnostic for both exams to assess which format feels intuitive.
Estimate preparation time for each option. If fitting TOEFL integrated tasks into your schedule would delay applications, choose IELTS and dedicate time to speaking mock tests instead.
Once you decide, commit fully. Tailor materials, book the exam early, and design a weekly plan so you peak on test day without rushing. Confidence in your chosen path is an SEO-friendly storyline admissions officers love.
Key Takeaways
- Map visa requirements first, then university preferences.
- Simulate both exams before booking.
- Align the test with your natural communication style.
Final Thoughts
There is no universally ‘easier’ exam. Choose the test that aligns with your application timeline and showcases the way you naturally communicate.