When it comes to testing English proficiency for academic or professional purposes, two of the most popular exams are the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) and TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language). Both exams are widely recognized and accepted by universities and employers around the world, but there are some key differences between them.
The IELTS exam is administered by the British Council, IDP Education, and Cambridge Assessment English. It consists of four sections – Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. The Speaking section is a face-to-face interview with an examiner, which can be intimidating for some test-takers. On the other hand, the TOEFL exam is administered by ETS (Educational Testing Service) and is entirely computer-based, with sections on Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing.
One of the main differences between the IELTS and TOEFL exams is the scoring system. The IELTS exam is scored on a band scale from 0 to 9, with half-band increments. The TOEFL exam is scored on a scale of 0 to 120, with each section scored separately. Some test-takers find the band scale of the IELTS exam easier to understand, while others prefer the detailed breakdown of scores in the TOEFL exam.
Another difference between the two exams is the accent of English used in the Listening section. The IELTS exam uses a variety of English accents, including British, Australian, Canadian, and American, while the TOEFL exam primarily uses North American accents. Test-takers who are more familiar with British or Australian English may find the IELTS exam more comfortable, while those who are used to American English may prefer the TOEFL exam.
In conclusion, both the IELTS and TOEFL exams are widely accepted and respected in the academic and professional world. The choice between the two exams often comes down to personal preference and familiarity with the exam format. Some test-takers may find the face-to-face Speaking section of the IELTS exam challenging, while others may prefer the computer-based format of the TOEFL exam. Ultimately, it is important to choose the exam that best suits your strengths and preferences in order to achieve your desired score.