IELTS or TOEFL; Which One is Better for GMAT Preparation?
IELTS or TOEFL for pursuing GMAT often confuses candidates. Learn here major differences between IELTS and TOEFL to take an informed decision.
Shivani Kumari19 Apr, 2024
IELTS or TOEFL: To study abroad, all non-native English speakers must qualify for the English proficiency test. Of all the tests, IELTS and TOEFL are the most popular around the world. All the renowned colleges and universities consider the scores of these two tests for accepting students. However, many students find it tough to select either of these tests.
To make an efficient decision, candidates must gain thorough information about both exams. These include knowing their exam pattern, sectional description, fee structure, scoring system, and more.What is IELTS?
The IELTS stands for International English Language Testing System. It is a renowned language assessment exam that individuals should qualify to pursue education or work in foreign nations. It is acknowledged in nearly 140 nations worldwide. IELTS consists of two variants: IELTS General Training, intended for professionals and immigration purposes, and IELTS Academic, which is specifically for educational pursuits.What is TOEFL?
The TOEFL is an acronym for Test of English as a Foreign Language. It is another well-recognised language assessment exam frequently selected by students aiming to pursue education overseas. This test assesses candidates' proficiency to effectively communicate after enrolling to a degree program. Around 130 countries globally consider TOEFL scores for admission students.IELTS or TOEFL Key Highlights
The following are the notable highlights of IELTS and TOEFL:| IELTS or TOEFL Key Highlights | ||
| Details | TOEFL | IELTS |
| Conducting Body | Educational Testing Services | British Council and IDP Education Ltd. |
| Exam Format | Online and Offline | Online and Offline |
| Types of Exam |
|
|
| Exam Duration | 1 hour 56 minutes | 2 hours 45 minutes |
| Exam Fee | INR 16,900 (TOEFL iBT) | INR 16,250 |
| Sections |
|
|
| Breaks | 10-minute break between listening and speaking | No breaks during listening, reading, and writing sections Candidates can attempt speaking section separately |
| Exam Frequency | More than 50 times a year | 48 times in a year |
| Score Range | 0-120 | 0-9 |
| Average Minimum Score | 78 | 6.3 |
| Results Timeline | Results issued approximately 10 days after the test | Results issued 13 days after the test |
| Accepted Locations | Accepted by more than 10,000 organisations internationally | Accepted by more than 11,000 universities internationally |
IELTS or TOEFL Differences in Exam Format
The primary distinction in IELTS and TOEFL lies in their question formats. TOEFL consists of multiple-choice questions, while IELTS includes various question types, such as fill in the blanks and short answer type questions. Another significant difference is the duration of the exam. IELTS continues for 2 hours and 45 minutes, whereas TOEFL consists of 1 hour and 56 minutes. The table below presents crucial differences between the exam structure of IELTS and TOEFL: IELTS Exam Format| Sections | No. of Tasks | Duration |
| Reading | 3 | 60 minutes |
| Listening | 4 | 30 minutes |
| Writing | 2 | 60 minutes |
| Speaking | 3 | 11-15 minutes |
| Total | 2 hours 45 minutes |
| Sections | No. of Questions | Scoring | Duration |
| Reading | 20 | 0-30 | 35 minutes |
| Listening | 28 | 0-30 | 36 minutes |
| Speaking | 4 tasks | 0-30 | 16 minutes |
| Writing | 2 tasks | 0-30 | 29 minutes |
| Total | 120 points | 1 hour 56 minutes |
IELTS or TOEFL Section-Wise Differences
Both IELTS and TOEFL exams include similar sections. However, the focus of evaluation in all the sections is different. The following points elaborate on the section-wise differences between IELTS and TOEFL.Reading Section
Both IELTS and TOEFL require candidates to provide answers based on their understanding of the passages. Therefore, to qualify in this section, candidates should aim to understand the provided information rather than incorporate personal views about the topic. Here are the distinctions between the reading sections of IELTS and TOEFL:| IELTS | TOEFL |
| Candidates need to solve three reading passages | TOEFL test presents only two reading passages |
| Each passage consists of 2,150 to 2,750 words. | Each passage consists of 700 words. |
Listening Section
The following explain the differences between the listening sections of TOEFL and IELTS:| IELTS | TOEFL |
| The Listening section consists of four parts. | The Listening section has 5 parts. |
| It consists of a total of 10 questions. | It includes 3 lectures and 6 questions. |
| The initial 2 sections cover social and everyday topics, while the latter sections focus on academic topics. | It incorporates conversations and lectures in a language suitable for academic settings. |
| Part 1 and 3 consists of multiple speakers. | 2 parts of TOEFL Listening section include two speakers. |
Speaking Section
The major contrast between the speaking sections of TOEFL and IELTS lies in their format. Here are the differences between the speaking sections of TOEFL and IELTS:| IELTS | TOEFL |
| Candidates engage in face-to-face conversations or video calls with an IELTS examiner. | It involves responding to questions using a microphone, emphasising listening skills. |
| IELTS speaking responses are evaluated by human examiners. | TOEFL employs a blend of artificial intelligence (AI) and human evaluators. |
Writing Section
Both IELTS and TOEFL comprise two writing tasks, each with unique formats. The notable differences between the writing sections of TOEFL and IELTS are as follows:| IELTS | TOEFL |
| Candidates are presented with data in the form of a graph, chart, table, or diagram. | It involves an integrated listening, reading, and writing assignment. |
| Candidates must compose a response of at least 250 words addressing an argument, problem, or perspective. | Candidates listen to a short lecture, read a brief passage, and then craft a response based on the information presented. |
| Candidates must write a minimum of 150 words within 20 minutes. | Candidates have to craft a five paragraph essay within 300-350 words. |
TOEFL or IELTS Score Comparison
The scoring systems for IELTS and TOEFL differ significantly. In IELTS, scores range from 1 to 9, where the overall score is the average of individual scores across all four sections. In contrast, TOEFL is graded on a scale of 0 to 120 points. Here's a brief comparison between TOEFL and IELTS total scores with score description:| TOEFL Score | IELTS Score | Score Description |
| 117 - 120 | 9 | Excellent |
| 110 - 116 | 8 | Very good |
| 102 - 109 | 7 | Good |
| 94 - 101 | 6 | Competent |
| 79 - 93 | 5 | Modest |
| 60 - 78 | 4 | Limited |
| 46 - 59 | 3 | Extremely limited |
| 35 - 45 | 2 | Intermittent |
| 32 - 34 | 1 | Poor |
| 0 - 31 | 0 | Very poor |
Top Universities Accepting IELTS Score
IELTS scores are prioritised by universities in the UK. The table below presents the most renowned universities that accept IELTS scores for the admission process:| University | IELTS Minimum Score |
| University of Oxford | 7.0-7.5 |
| King’s College London | 7.0 |
| Imperial College London | 7.0 |
| University of Cambridge | 7.0 |
| University of Edinburgh | 6.5 |
| University College London | 6.5 |
| University of Manchester | 6.0-7.5 |
| University of Glasgow | 6.0-7.0 |
| University of Warwick | 6.5 |
| University of Bristol | 6.0 |
Top Universities Accepting TOEFL Score
Here are some of the most esteemed universities that accept TOEFL scores:| University Name | Minimum Score |
| Harvard University | 100 – 105 |
| Princeton University | 100 |
| Yale University | 100 |
| Stanford University | 100 |
| California Institute of Technology | 100 |
| Johns Hopkins University | 100 |
| University of Pennsylvania | 100 |
| Northwestern University | 95 |
| Duke University | 90 |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | 90 |
IELTS or TOEFL: Which is Better for GMAT?
Determining which test is better for the GMAT depends on various factors. These include the following:- University or country preference: Candidates should ascertain the preferred test of their preferred university. For instance, in the USA, TOEFL is generally prioritised over IELTS.
- Payment options: TOEFL now offers more localised payment methods, such as local credit cards, debit cards, and wallets, including the option for payment in INR.
- Mode of exam: IELTS is a computer-based test administered at designated testing centres, whereas TOEFL is an internet-based test that can also be taken from home. Candidates who want to attempt the English proficiency test at home should choose TOEFL, and those who are comfortable taking the test from a test centre can go with IELTS.
- Preparation time: If you have a limited preparation window of 3-6 weeks, IELTS might be a preferable option because candidates can score well if they prepare rigorously during this period. On the other hand, TOEFL requires longer preparation periods to achieve a commendable score, typically spanning 8-16 weeks.
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IpcXZFj_PzsIELTS or TOEFL FAQs
Should I study both the GMAT and IELTS together, or should I study the IELTS after passing the GMAT?
It is generally recommended that candidates qualify for the GMAT first and then attempt the IELTS. However, if they don't have enough time to clear both exams before the college application process, it is advised that they prepare for both GMAT and IELTS simultaneously.
What is more suitable with GMAT, IELTS or TOEFL?
Both IELTS and TOEFL are preferred with GMAT. However, candidates who aim to pursue an MBA from universities in the UK must go for IELTS. On the other hand, for getting an MBA degree from the US universities, TOEFL is a preferred option.
Which one is easier, IELTS or TOEFL?
Both IELTS and TOEFL are English language proficiency exams. Challenge level of these exams depends on candidates' strength and weakness of English language.
How much time is required for IELTS and TOEFL preparation if I have good English?
Candidates with a strong command of English can effectively prepare for both IELTS and TOEFL within one month.
Is it possible to give GMAT before TOEFL or one must give TOEFL first and then GMAT?
GMAT evaluates candidates' knowledge and skills required for pursuing management studies. On the other hand, TOEFL tests candidates' proficiency in communicating effectively during the academic degree. Candidates can choose to attempt the GMAT and TOEFL together or separately at their convenience and according to the college application deadline.
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