Choosing between the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) and the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) can be a challenging decision for Indian students aspiring to study abroad. Both exams are globally recognized and accepted, but they have distinct differences that might make one more suitable for you than the other. This blog will provide an insightful comparison to help you determine which exam is easier and better aligned with your goals and skills in 2024.
Understanding TOEFL and IELTS
TOEFL Overview:
The TOEFL, administered by the Educational Testing Service ( IELTS comes in two versions: Academic and General Training, with the Academic version being more relevant for students.
Exam Structure and Format
TOEFL Structure:
Reading: 3-4 academic passages with multiple-choice questions (60-80 minutes)
Listening: 4-6 lectures and 2-3 conversations with multiple-choice questions (60-90 minutes)
Speaking: 6 tasks, including personal opinions and summarizing material (20 minutes)
Writing: 2 tasks, including an integrated task (reading and listening) and an independent essay (50 minutes)
Total Duration:Approximately 4 hours
IELTS Structure:
Reading: 3 sections with 40 questions (60 minutes)
Listening: 4 sections with 40 questions (30 minutes)
-Speaking: 3 parts, including an introduction, a long turn, and a discussion (11-14 minutes)
Writing: 2 tasks, including describing a graph/chart/diagram and writing an essay (60 minutes)
Total Duration: 2 hours 45 minutes
Key Differences
Format:
TOEFL: Conducted entirely on a computer (internet-based test).
IELTS: Available in both paper-based and computer-based formats.
Accent and Language:
TOEFL: Focuses on American English.
IELTS:Includes a mix of British, Australian, New Zealand, and North American accents.
Speaking Section:
TOEFL: Responses are recorded and evaluated later.
ELTS: Face-to-face interview with an examiner, which can be more personal and engaging.
Writing Section:
TOEFL: Requires typing responses.
IELTS:Requires handwriting responses for the paper-based test.
Scoring:
TOEFL: Scored out of 120 points.
IELTS:Scored on a band scale of 0-9.
Exam Sections in Detail
Reading:
TOEFL: Emphasizes academic texts with multiple-choice questions.
IELTS:Includes a variety of question types, such as multiple-choice, matching, and short answers, with academic texts for the Academic version.
Listening:
TOEF: Academic lectures and conversations.
IELTS: Conversations and monologues from everyday contexts and academic settings.
Speaking:
TOEFL: Six tasks involving personal opinions and summarizing material.
IELTS: Three parts – an introduction and interview, a long turn on a given topic, and a discussion.
Writing:
TOEFL: Integrated task (reading and listening) and an independent essay.
IELTS: Task 1 (describing a graph/chart/diagram) and Task 2 (essay).
Which Exam is Easier for Indian Students?
Determining which exam is easier depends on various factors such as your familiarity with American or British English, your comfort with typing versus handwriting, and your preference for computer-based versus face-to-face speaking tests. Here are some insights to help you decide:
TOEFL might be easier if:
- You are comfortable with American English.
- computer-based test and are good at typing.
- You feel confident in recording your speaking responses without face-to-face interaction.
- IELTS might be easier if:
- You are more familiar with British English.
- You prefer a variety of question types and test formats.
- You feel more comfortable with a face-to-face speaking test.
- You are better at handwriting your responses.
Conclusion
So, Both the TOEFL and IELTS are comprehensive exams that require diligent preparation. Understanding the differences between the two can help you choose the exam that aligns better with your skills and preferences. Taking practice tests for both exams can provide a clearer picture of which format suits you best. Ultimately, the “easier” exam is the one that plays to your strengths and fits your learning style.
At Preplix, we are dedicated to helping students achieve their educational dreams. Our comprehensive support and personalized guidance ensure that your journey from exam preparation to starting your course at a university campus is seamless and successful. Embark on your path to educational success with Preplix, where your potential is nurtured, and dreams are transformed into realities.
Curious? Your answers await here
The difficulty level of the exam depends on the preparation of the students. Nevertheless, IELTS is considered easier than the TOEFL exam. Some may find TOEFL’s academic focus challenging, while others may struggle with IELTS’s diverse accents and speaking interviews.
TOEFL result is declared in approximately 6 days, whereas IELTS computer-based result is declared in 3-5 days and paper-based result is declared in 13 days.
TOEFL can be challenging due to its emphasis on academic English, complex reading passages, fast-paced listening sections, and the requirement to type essays within a limited time.