IELTS vs TOEFL: Which One is Harder?

Are you planning to study abroad or apply for a job in an English-speaking country? Chances are, you’ll need to take an English proficiency test such as IELTS or TOEFL. These exams are used by universities, colleges, and employers to assess your English language skills.

One common question that many test-takers ask is, “Which exam is harder, IELTS or TOEFL?” The answer to this question is not straightforward as both tests have their own unique format, content, and scoring system. In this article, we’ll explore the similarities and differences between IELTS and TOEFL and help you decide which test is right for you.

IELTS vs TOEFL: Format

The first major difference between IELTS and TOEFL is the format of the test. IELTS is offered in two formats – Academic and General Training. The Academic version is designed for those who want to study at a university or college, while the General Training version is intended for those who want to work or immigrate to an English-speaking country.

TOEFL, on the other hand, is only offered in one format, which is academic. It’s important to note that both tests assess the same four language skills – reading, writing, listening, and speaking.

IELTS vs TOEFL: Content

The second major difference between IELTS and TOEFL is the content of the test. While both exams assess the same four language skills, the content and tasks are different. For example, the reading passages in IELTS are taken from books, magazines, and newspapers, while the reading passages in TOEFL are academic in nature and are taken from textbooks and research papers.

The listening section in IELTS includes a variety of accents and dialects, while the listening section in TOEFL is primarily North American English. In the speaking section of IELTS, you’ll have a face-to-face conversation with an examiner, while in TOEFL, you’ll speak into a microphone and your responses will be recorded.

IELTS vs TOEFL: Scoring

Both IELTS and TOEFL use a scoring system that ranges from 0 to 9, but the way the scores are calculated is different. In IELTS, you’ll receive a band score for each of the four language skills, and then an overall band score, which is the average of the four band scores.

In TOEFL, you’ll receive a score for each section (reading, writing, listening, and speaking), and then a total score, which is the sum of the four section scores. It’s important to note that both tests have different score requirements for different universities, colleges, and employers.

Which Exam is Harder?

Now that we’ve explored the format, content, and scoring of IELTS and TOEFL, let’s answer the million-dollar question – which exam is harder? The answer to this question depends on your individual strengths and weaknesses. Some test-takers may find the face-to-face speaking section in IELTS more challenging, while others may struggle with the academic reading passages in TOEFL.

It’s important to note that both exams require a similar level of English language proficiency, and both have their own unique challenges. However, if you prefer a test that has a fixed format and content, then TOEFL may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a test that assesses your ability to communicate in real-life situations, then IELTS may be the better option. Additionally, if you’re planning to apply to universities in the US or Canada, TOEFL is often preferred, while IELTS is more commonly accepted in other countries such as the UK, Australia, and New Zealand.

Ultimately, the decision of which test to take depends on your personal preferences and goals. Consider your strengths and weaknesses in different language skills, the requirements of the institutions you’re applying to, and the format and content of each exam before making a decision. Regardless of which exam you choose, it’s important to prepare thoroughly and familiarize yourself with the exam format to maximize your chances of success.