When it comes to English language proficiency tests, two of the most popular options are the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) and the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). Both tests are widely accepted by universities and institutions around the world, but they have some key differences that test-takers should be aware of.
IELTS is administered by the British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia, and Cambridge Assessment English, while TOEFL is administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS). Both tests assess the four language skills – listening, reading, writing, and speaking – but the way they do so varies.
Differences Between IELTS and TOEFL
One major difference between IELTS and TOEFL is the speaking section. In IELTS, the speaking test is conducted face-to-face with an examiner, which allows for a more interactive and natural conversation. In TOEFL, the speaking test is recorded and assessed by raters, which some test-takers may find less personal.
Another key difference is the format of the writing section. In IELTS, there are two tasks – Task 1 requires test-takers to describe visual information, while Task 2 is an essay on a given topic. In TOEFL, there is only one integrated task that combines reading, listening, and writing skills, and an independent task where test-takers express their opinion on a topic.
Furthermore, the scoring systems for IELTS and TOEFL differ. IELTS uses a band score ranging from 1 to 9 for each section, with the overall band score being an average of the four individual scores. TOEFL, on the other hand, uses a scaled score of 0 to 120, with each section scored out of 30 points.
Lastly, the listening and reading sections in IELTS contain a variety of accents and dialects, reflecting the global nature of English. In TOEFL, the accents are primarily North American, which may be advantageous for test-takers who are more familiar with that accent.
In conclusion, while both IELTS and TOEFL are respected English language proficiency tests, they have distinct differences in terms of format, scoring, and content. It is essential for test-takers to understand these variations and choose the test that aligns best with their strengths and preferences.