The TOEFL offers only academic English, while the IELTS offers a general test also. This test is more preferred for immigration purposes to the UK and Canada. And overall, the IELTS has more of a real-world feeling than the TOEFL.

WHICH IS HARDER?

This is probably the question you’re most concerned with, but it’s pretty difficult to compare the both directly. A better way to find the answer to this question is to ask yourself a few questions. Answer the following questions with a simple “yes” or “no.”

I am comfortable with computers. YES/NO

I can type quickly. YES/NO

I prefer standard American English. YES/NO

I am good at answering multiple-choice questions. YES/NO

It is easy for me to take notes from a recording. YES/NO

The authentic English sources I read/listen to/watch are usually intended to inform rather than entertain. YES/NO

If you answered YES to most of these questions, the TOEFL is the best fit to your mind set.

I am comfortable having a detailed interview in-person. YES/NO

I have legible English handwriting. YES/NO

I can understand a variety of dialects of English. YES/NO

I prefer tests with many question types, including multiple choice, fill-in-the-blank, matching, true/false, and flowcharts. YES/NO

I feel most comfortable discussing non-academic topics in English. YES/NO

The authentic English sources that I read/listen to/watch are usually made to entertain. YES/NO

If you answered YES to most of these questions, then you might find the IELTS to be more up your alley.

Both the tests are widely-accepted and are available at a variety of locations. When trying to decide between the two, first consult the programs you want to apply to and make sure that they accept both; after that, the most important factors are convenience and your particular skill set.

No matter which test you take, be aware that the scores all expire 2 years after your test date.

NOTE: The above views/statistics are indicative. Opinions and experiences may vary from person-to-person.

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