IELTS and TOEFL are two major English-language proficiency tests used by universities and other organisations around the world. The right test is not simply the one that appears easier; students should first check the requirements of the universities and programmes they are applying to. Test format, speaking style, delivery method, scoring and personal strengths can then help you decide how to prepare.
IELTS Academic: what students should know
IELTS Academic is designed for people applying to undergraduate or postgraduate study. The test assesses Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking. The official IELTS Academic test takes about 2 hours and 45 minutes, with Speaking lasting 11–14 minutes. IELTS uses a band scale from 1 to 9.
TOEFL iBT: what students should know
TOEFL iBT assesses the four academic skills of reading, listening, speaking and writing. ETS introduced an updated TOEFL iBT format from January 21, 2026, including an adaptive test experience and a new 1–6 scoring scale, with a comparable 0–120 score during the transition period. Students should therefore avoid relying on older TOEFL information when planning a current test.
IELTS vs TOEFL: the main differences
IELTS and TOEFL both assess academic English, but their delivery and task styles differ. IELTS Speaking is an interactive speaking assessment with an examiner, while TOEFL is computer-delivered. IELTS Academic uses a 1–9 band scale; TOEFL’s current reporting includes a 1–6 scale during the new scoring transition. Always check the latest official test information before booking.
Which test is easier: IELTS or TOEFL?
There is no universal answer. A student who is comfortable speaking directly with an examiner may prefer the IELTS format, while another student may prefer a computer-based environment. The best approach is to take official sample material for both tests, compare the tasks and choose the test accepted by your target universities.
Check university requirements before booking
Acceptance varies by university, programme and destination. Some institutions accept both IELTS and TOEFL, while a particular programme may specify a minimum score or a particular test. Check each university’s official admissions page before paying for a test.
How to prepare for IELTS or TOEFL
Begin with a diagnostic test so you know your current level. Build a study plan around the four skills, practise under timed conditions and review mistakes. For IELTS, use official sample tasks and understand the Academic Writing and Speaking formats. IELTS provides official preparation resources. For TOEFL, use ETS resources that reflect the current 2026 format.
IELTS vs TOEFL for Indian students
Indian students should choose based on target university requirements, test availability, preferred format and preparation style. If you are applying to several countries, make a list of your target programmes first and identify which English tests they accept.
Frequently Asked Questions
Neither is universally better. The correct choice depends on the requirements of your target universities and your comfort with each test format.
IELTS Academic is designed for undergraduate and postgraduate study, but the required score depends on the institution and programme.
Yes. ETS introduced an updated TOEFL iBT format from January 21, 2026, including adaptive testing and a new 1–6 scoring scale, with a comparable 0–120 score during the transition period.
