Understand the Difference Between the IELTS and TOEFL

Do you dream of studying abroad? Would you like to build a future in an English-speaking country?

If so, demonstrating your English language skills is a crucial step. It is not enough to be good at math and exceptional in physics. Those capabilities are laudable but you have to be able to converse fluently with your professors and cohorts.

In this article, we will introduce you to TOEFL and IELTS — the two most widely recognized English proficiency tests. But which test should you take? Do universities prefer one over the other and which is easier, TOEFL or IELTS? We shall also shed light on the differences between TOEFL and IELTS.

Differences between the IELTS and TOEFL Exams

Before we share the table, let’s start with a very brief description.

IELTS (International English Language Testing System)

IELTS is administered by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge English. It commenced in 1989.

IELTS is used for academic, professional, and immigration purposes globally. IELTS is also crucial for study-abroad applicants, professionals, and immigrants to English-speaking countries.

TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)

TOEFL is administered by the Educational Testing Service or ETS. It is much older and has been around since 1965.

TOEFL is more focused on academic purposes. TOEFL is predominantly recognised and required in the USA, and also accepted for immigration in Australia and New Zealand.

Choosing between TOEFL and IELTS depends on your specific needs. Both tests are globally recognized. Yet they test different aspects of English language proficiency.

This table provides a comparative overview of the TOEFL and IELTS tests across various aspects:

Also Read: IELTS Exam Pattern 2026: Sections, Format and Scoring Guide

IELTS versus TOEFL: Examination Structure and Curriculum

While the table above sheds some light on the differences between IELTS and TOEFL, it’s time to deep dive into each of these test formats. When comparing the IELTS and TOEFL exams in terms of pattern and syllabus, there are several key differences:

Reading Section

• TOEFL: This section involves reading 3-4 university-level educational texts. Each is followed by about 10 questions which focus on comprehension skills. Duration: 54-72 minutes.
• IELTS: Test-takers are provided three passages. These serve as the basis for a variety of comprehension questions. Duration: 60 minutes.

Listening Section

• TOEFL: The section includes 3-4 lectures and 2-3 conversations. Each is followed by a series of questions and takes 41-57 minutes to complete.
• IELTS: It consists of four recorded monologues or conversations, with a total duration of 30 minutes.

Writing Section

• TOEFL (new format, January 2026): The long Integrated Essay was removed. The writing section now has: (1) an Academic Discussion task (write a response to an academic discussion, ~10 min), and (2) a Writing for an Academic Purpose task (~20 min). Total: approximately 30 minutes.
• IELTS: Features two tasks — Task 1 (describe visual data, 20 min) and Task 2 (essay, 40 min). Total: 60 minutes. The essay task is longer and more demanding than the new TOEFL format.

Speaking Section

• TOEFL: Comprises four tasks, evaluated by an examiner, and takes about 17 minutes. Responses are recorded to prompts without face-to-face interaction.
• IELTS: Involves a face-to-face interview with a certified examiner, lasting 11-14 minutes.

Also Read: IELTS Exam Dates in India 2026: How to Book Your Slot

TOEFL vs IELTS: Which Is Easier?

There isn’t a clear-cut answer to this question. It is wrong to assume that one is lesser or easier. Much of it depends on your strengths and weaknesses as a test taker, as well as the format you prefer.

Here are some factors to help you decide:

Reading and Listening

• TOEFL reading passages tend to be more academic and can involve technical vocabulary.
• IELTS reading sections draw from various sources like newspapers and magazines, offering a wider range of topics.
• However, both have similar listening sections.

Speaking and Writing

• IELTS speaking involves a face-to-face interaction with an examiner. This might make some test takers nervous.
• TOEFL speaking is computer-based, where you speak into a microphone.
• Writing: TOEFL’s new format (January 2026) removed the long essay. If essay writing is your weakness, the new TOEFL format is significantly more manageable. IELTS still requires a full 250-word Task 2 essay.

Test Format

• TOEFL is primarily computer-based.
• IELTS offers both computer-based and paper-based options.

Ultimately, the ‘easier’ test boils down to your preferences.

TOEFL vs IELTS: Which Should I Take?

As a student from India considering studying abroad, you have to weigh many factors, and choosing between IELTS and TOEFL is not easy.

• IELTS: This test is widely accepted in the UK, Australia, and Canada. IELTS is also recognized by many universities in the USA. The academic version is suitable for university applications.
• TOEFL: Predominantly favored in the USA and also accepted in Canada, Australia, and the UK for university admissions. It’s more focused on academic English and is mostly computer-based.

How to Apply for IELTS and TOEFL?

Here are the steps to apply:

Applying for IELTS

• Visit the official IDP India IELTS website
• Choose between Academic or General Training.
• Select a test center and a suitable date.
• Utilize free preparation materials available on the website.

Applying for TOEFL

• Register through the ETS website
• Choose a test date and center.
• Access TOEFL preparation materials and resources online.
• Follow online instructions for a step-by-step registration process.

Also Read: IELTS Exam Eligibility 2026: Age Limit, Passport Rule and Who Can Apply

IELTS: Complete Resource Guide (GradRight)