IELTS vs TOEFL: Which Test to Take for Studying Abroad?

TOEFL and IELTS test the same four skills, Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing, but they differ in structure, question style, and overall test experience. TOEFL suits students who prefer a fully computer-based test with short, structured tasks such as completing sentences or responding through a microphone, while IELTS suits students who are comfortable with a face-to-face speaking round and a broader mix of question types across the four skills.

Key Highlights:

• The IELTS exam score ranges from 0 to 9 bands, while the TOEFL iBT score ranges from 0 to 120 points, alongside a newer 1-6 CEFR-aligned band introduced from January 2026. 
• The IELTS exam takes around 2 hours and 45 minutes, whereas the TOEFL iBT is shorter, lasting about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
• IELTS and TOEFL both test Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing, but IELTS uses more descriptive and varied question types, while TOEFL relies on shorter, task-based questions such as sentence completion, email writing, and listen-and-repeat prompts. 
• In India, the IELTS exam fee is around ₹19,000, while the TOEFL iBT costs approximately ₹18,000, including taxes.

What is the Difference Between IELTS & TOEFL?

The main difference between IELTS and TOEFL lies in their test format, question types, speaking format and scoring systems. IELTS offers separate Academic and General Training tests, while TOEFL focuses on academic English and uses an integrated, computer-based format. 

Here is the table for a complete comparison of both IELTS and TOEFL:

IELTS vs TOEFL: Test Format

IELTS and TOEFL have the same four sections, but differ in test duration, question types, and how each section is conducted. IELTS lasts about 2 hours and 45 minutes, while TOEFL takes about 1hour 30 minutes.

IELTS vs TOEFL: Section-wise Comparison and Question Types

 Beyond timing, IELTS and TOEFL ask you to demonstrate your English skills in different ways within each section. The table below breaks down the question types and what each section actually tests, so you know what to expect before you take either exam. 

IELTS vs TOEFL: Grading and Score Comparison

IELTS scores range from 0 to 9 bands, while TOEFL scores range from 0 to 120 points. Even though the numbers look very different, it is crucial to understand how these scores match. For example, an IELTS score of 6.5-7.0 is usually equal to a TOEFL score between 79 and 101.

Check out this comparison chart to know more about scoring ranges for both:

Suggested: Check out our IELTS Exam Syllabus to understand what is asked in each part of the test.

IELTS vs TOEFL: Minimum Score Requirement

Most universities set minimum scores based on the level and type of course, not on which test you choose. In general, IELTS requirements fall between 6.0 and 7.0 bands, while TOEFL requirements range from 70 to 100 points for UG and PG programmes.

You can aim for these minimum scores for both IELTS and TOEFL:

• Undergraduate programmes: 6.0 IELTS/60-78 TOEFL
• Postgraduate programmes: 7.0 IELTS/94-101 TOEFL

IELTS vs TOEFL: Exam Fees

When comparing IELTS and TOEFL exam fees in India, both exams are priced in a similar range, with only a small difference in overall cost. IELTS ranges around ₹19,000 depending on the test type, while TOEFL iBT is priced at ₹18,000 with additional charges for extra services.

Here is a table for you to compare the costs for both exams:

Suggested: Before booking your test, read the TOEFL Exam Fee to know the exact exam cost and extra service fees.

IELTS vs TOEFL: Country-Wise Score Requirements

Universities across most English-speaking countries ask for IELTS scores between 6.0 and 7.5 or TOEFL scores between 80 and 100. Please be aware that different countries give importance to different exams; the USA prefers TOEFL, while IELTS is preferred more by the UK, Canada, and Australia.

Is TOEFL Easier than IELTS?

There is no easier test between TOEFL and IELTS. The difficulty of both tests is subjective and mainly depends on a student's thinking style, answer approach, and comfort with academic English.

Here are some factors based on which you can choose the exam that is less difficult for you:

• Question Style: IELTS uses many open-ended and varied question types where students must understand the meaning and write answers themselves. TOEFL mostly uses multiple-choice questions, where difficulty comes from choosing the correct answer among similar options.
• Academic Language Level: TOEFL uses strong academic language in reading and listening, which can feel challenging for students not used to university-level lectures. IELTS uses more general English, but still expects a clear understanding of context.
• Answer Strategy: IELTS requires careful attention to detail because small spelling or grammar mistakes can affect scores. TOEFL requires logical thinking and strong reasoning skills.
• Accent Exposure: IELTS includes different English accents, which can be challenging for students unfamiliar with them. TOEFL mainly uses American English, which is easier for students already exposed to it.

IELTS vs TOEFL: Which Test to Take?

Choose IELTS if you think clearly through short, descriptive answers, can scan long texts quickly for specific information, and prefer explaining ideas in your own words rather than picking from options. Choose TOEFL if you are comfortable with academic-style listening, taking notes under time pressure, and typing structured responses instead of writing by hand. Match the test to how you naturally process and respond to information, not to which one you have heard is easier. 

From the Desk of Yocket

Choosing between IELTS and TOEFL can feel confusing because students often focus only on which exam is easier, instead of understanding how they personally perform best. Many students struggle not because of weak English, but because they pick a test that doesn't match their thinking style, answer strategy, or academic background. Knowing how you read, listen, and organise answers is just as important as knowing the syllabus.

Yocket Prep can help you practise both exams with structured resources, mock tests, and targeted strategies, so you can prepare for the English proficiency test that fits your plans. Once you understand the differences between IELTS and TOEFL, you can focus your preparation on the test format, skills and question types that matter most for your target score.