1. Overall Structure:
- TOEFL: The TOEFL is divided into four sections: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing. Each section is scored on a scale of 0-30, and the total score is the sum of the four section scores.
- IELTS: The IELTS is also divided into four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. However, the Speaking section is conducted in a face-to-face interview with an examiner. The total score is based on the average of the four section scores, and each section is graded on a 9-band scale.
2. Format and Content:
- TOEFL: The TOEFL uses a multiple-choice format for the Reading, Listening, and Speaking sections. The Writing section requires test-takers to write two essays.
- IELTS: The IELTS uses a mix of multiple-choice questions, short-answer questions, and essay writing for the Reading and Writing sections. The Listening section consists of four audio recordings with multiple-choice questions.
3. Speaking Section:
- TOEFL: The TOEFL Speaking section is conducted online using a computer-based interface. Test-takers speak into a microphone and respond to six tasks: two independent speaking tasks and four integrated speaking tasks.
- IELTS: The IELTS Speaking section is conducted in person with an examiner. The test consists of three parts: an interview, an individual long turn, and a discussion.
4. Scoring:
- TOEFL: The TOEFL is scored on a scale of 0-120. Each section is scored separately on a scale of 0-30, and the total score is the sum of the four section scores.
- IELTS: The IELTS is scored on a 9-band scale, with each band representing a different level of English proficiency. The total score is the average of the four section scores.
5. Acceptance and Recognition:
- TOEFL: The TOEFL is widely accepted by universities and institutions in the United States, Canada, and other countries. It is also accepted by many institutions in Europe and Asia.
- IELTS: The IELTS is widely accepted by universities and institutions in the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada. It is also accepted by many institutions in Europe and Asia.
6. Cost and Availability:
- TOEFL: The TOEFL is administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS) and is offered at authorized testing centers around the world. The test fee varies depending on the country and location.
- IELTS: The IELTS is administered by the British Council, IDP Education, and Cambridge Assessment English. It is offered at test centers in over 140 countries and territories. The test fee also varies depending on the location and test type.
7. Preparation:
- TOEFL: There are various resources available for preparing for the TOEFL, including study guides, online courses, and practice tests.
- IELTS: Similarly, there are a variety of preparation materials and resources available for the IELTS, including official practice materials, study guides, and online courses.
Ultimately, the choice between TOEFL and IELTS depends on several factors, such as the specific requirements of the institution or organization you are applying to, your preferred test format, and your comfort level with different test structures. It's advisable to research and understand the specific requirements and preferences of the institutions you are interested in to make an informed decision about which test to take.