Compare test format, scoring, cost, and accepted countries. Find out whether TOEFL or IELTS is the right fit for your study-abroad or immigration goals.
Head-to-Head
Everything you need in one table. Scroll sideways on mobile.
| Feature | TOEFL iBT | IELTS Academic |
|---|---|---|
| Test Format | 100% computer-based; Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing | Paper-based or computer-based; Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking |
| Duration | ~2 hours | ~2 hours 45 minutes |
| Scoring | 0 – 120 (30 per section) | Band 1.0 – 9.0 (0.5 increments) |
| Accepted Regions | Strongly preferred in USA & Canada | Preferred in UK, Australia, NZ, Europe; widely accepted globally |
| Cost (approx.) | US $185 – $205 | US $240 – $260 |
| Computer vs Paper | Computer only | Computer or paper (varies by centre) |
| Speaking Format | Recorded responses; speak into a microphone | Face-to-face interview with an examiner |
| Validity Period | 2 years | 2 years |
| Test Frequency | 60+ dates per year, available most weeks | 48 dates per year (paper); near-daily (computer) |
Choose Your Test
Your ideal test depends on where you are applying and why.
Most US and Canadian universities prefer or require TOEFL iBT. If your shortlist is US-heavy, TOEFL is the safer bet.
IELTS Academic is the default for UK, Australian, and New Zealand universities and visa applications.
IRCC accepts IELTS General Training, CELPIP, and PTE Core for Express Entry. TOEFL is not accepted for Canada PR.
Applying to universities in several countries? Both tests are accepted at 11,000+ institutions worldwide. Pick whichever format suits you.
Score Mapping
Approximate equivalents published by ETS. Individual institutions may set their own cut-offs.
| TOEFL iBT Score | IELTS Band | Level |
|---|---|---|
| 120 | 9.0 | Expert |
| 110 – 120 | 8.0 – 8.5 | Very Good |
| 94 – 109 | 7.0 – 7.5 | Good |
| 80 – 93 | 6.5 | Competent |
| 60 – 79 | 5.5 – 6.0 | Modest |
| 46 – 59 | 5.0 | Limited |
Advantages & Drawbacks
Weigh the strengths and weaknesses before booking your exam.
Common Questions
Quick answers to the most-searched TOEFL vs IELTS questions.
Neither test is objectively easier. TOEFL suits students comfortable with American English and typing, while IELTS may feel more natural to those who prefer face-to-face speaking and a mix of question types. Most students score comparably on both once they practise the specific format.
Yes. Over 3,400 US institutions accept IELTS Academic, including all Ivy League universities. However, some US programmes still prefer TOEFL, so always check your target university's admissions page for the latest accepted tests.
Approximate equivalents: TOEFL 120 = IELTS 9.0, TOEFL 110–120 = IELTS 8.0–8.5, TOEFL 94–109 = IELTS 7.0–7.5, TOEFL 80–93 = IELTS 6.5, TOEFL 60–79 = IELTS 5.5–6.0, and TOEFL 46–59 = IELTS 5.0. These are ETS-published approximate ranges and individual institutions may set their own cut-offs.
For Canadian permanent residency (Express Entry), IRCC accepts IELTS General Training, CELPIP General, PTE Core, and TEF/TCF for French. TOEFL is not accepted for Canada PR applications. If you are applying to Canadian universities, both TOEFL and IELTS Academic are accepted.
Both TOEFL and IELTS scores are valid for two years from the test date. After that, you must retake the test if an institution or immigration authority requires a current score.
Yes. TOEFL iBT Home Edition lets you take the test at home with a human proctor via ProctorU. IELTS offers an Online version for Academic in select countries. Both require a quiet room, a computer with a camera, and a stable internet connection. Check availability in your country before booking.
TOEFL iBT costs approximately US $185–$205 depending on the country. IELTS Academic or General Training costs around US $240–$260. Prices vary by test centre and region, so check the official ETS and British Council websites for exact fees in your location.
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