The English language examination is undoubtedly one of the most important aspects for those considering studying abroad. However, if you are just beginning to explore the study abroad process, you may find yourself torn between taking the TOEFL or the IELTS. Choosing the type of exam should not be based solely on others' opinions; it should be determined by the schools and countries you wish to attend, as well as your own English proficiency and requirements. In light of this, this article will systematically outline the similarities and differences between the IELTS and TOEFL exams to help you choose the study abroad path that truly suits you!
First, what are TOEFL & IELTS?
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is an English proficiency test administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS). Its full name is "Test of English Proficiency for Non-Native Speakers" and is commonly referred to as TOEFL. It is one of the most widely accepted exams globally, with scores recognized for study abroad applications in countries and regions such as the United States, Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Ireland, New Zealand, Singapore, Japan, Belgium, the Netherlands, Denmark, Finland, Norway, Austria, South Africa, and Hong Kong.
IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is one of the most recognized international standardized English proficiency tests. It is accepted by over 8,000 institutions worldwide, with countries such as the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, and the Netherlands prioritizing IELTS scores. In Australia, student visas only accept IELTS scores. As of July 2010, over 3,000 institutions in the United States accept IELTS scores, including all eight Ivy League schools. English-taught programs in European countries such as France, Denmark, and Finland also require IELTS scores.
Secondly, the similarities between TOEFL and IELTS exams
1. Essential for Degree Programs
Whether you are an undergraduate or a graduate student, if you are applying for a degree program, both IELTS and TOEFL are essential.
2. Scores Valid for Two Years
Both IELTS and TOEFL scores are valid for two years. For example, if you achieve a good score on the IELTS or TOEFL in your freshman year, it may no longer be valid when you apply in your junior or senior year. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to the exam date when taking the test.
3. Scores Can Be Re-evaluated
Both TOEFL and IELTS scores can be re-evaluated. They allow students to question their scores; if you find that your exam score does not align with your usual English proficiency, you can apply for a re-evaluation.
Secondly, the differences between TOEFL and IELTS exams
1. Different Exam Formats
The new TOEFL is administered via the internet, creating a local area network with ETS headquarters, providing different questions for each individual, and ensuring that the questions are valid for that session. Additionally, the internet-based test records answers electronically and transmits them to a human scoring network for objective and reliable scoring, ensuring fairness in the examination process.
Currently, the IELTS has not officially announced the adoption of a "computer-based" format; the IELTS exam taken by candidates in China is still conducted in a paper-based format.
In general, both exams last about three hours, which is different from the CET-4 and CET-6 exams, as they do not have fixed start and end times. For instance, the speaking section of the IELTS can last between 11 to 14 minutes, while the TOEFL may include additional sections, meaning that some candidates may experience extended testing times in the listening and reading sections, so the TOEFL may not necessarily conclude within three hours.
2. Different Scoring Systems
The new TOEFL has a total score of 120. Some prestigious American universities seem to have low requirements for the new TOEFL, only requiring a score of 80, which is equivalent to a score of 550 on the old TOEFL. However, Chinese candidates generally score relatively high, and under competitive conditions, obtaining admission to prestigious institutions like Harvard is quite difficult without scoring above 100 on the new TOEFL.
The IELTS scores range from 1 to 9, with four sections (listening, reading, writing, speaking) scored separately, and an average score calculated. The score report will list the four individual scores and the final overall score. Science and engineering programs typically require applicants to have an IELTS score of 6.5 or higher, while humanities programs require a score of 7 or higher.
3. Different Registration Systems
TOEFL
TOEFL iBT Exam Fee: ¥1500.00
Late Registration Fee: ¥235.00
Transfer Fee: ¥535.00
Score Recovery Fee: ¥135.00
Score Sending Fee (per copy): ¥120.00
Re-evaluation of Speaking or Writing Score: ¥535.00
Re-evaluation of Both Speaking and Writing Scores: ¥1067.00
TOEFL Preparation Package 1: ¥1195.00
TOEFL Preparation Package 2: ¥660.00
TOEFL Preparation Package 3: ¥325.00
TOEFL Preparation Package 4 (Simulation Exam Only): ¥180.00
IELTS
Exam Fee: ¥1680
Transfer Fee: ¥420
Withdrawal Fee: ¥420
Re-evaluation Fee: ¥1000
* Candidates can apply for re-evaluation of one or more scores, with a fee of ¥1000 for each score.