Making a decision whether or not a student will take the IELTS or TOEFL and is not always a straightforward decision for someone wishing to study abroad. While both of these organizations are recognized internationally and are checking your English language proficiency skills, there are some differences in style and format and some differences in which organizations accept the IELTS or TOEFL. Every year there are universities that change their requirements for the IELTS or TOEFL, and then leave many students confused as to which test to take! The decision generally depends on your study destination, your comfort with tests, and the score that universities accept. Some students may even ask questions like, what does toefl mean or look for a toefl to ielts converter so that they have more choice.The point is that there is no objective “better” test. Only what is better for you.
In this blog, we are going to look at the ielts exam and toefl exam, their major differences, scoring systems and which one may suit you better. By the time you finish reading this, you should have a better idea about what choice makes the most sense for your 2025 academic study.
Understanding IELTS and TOEFL
To begin at the beginning.
➤Toefl full form is Test of English as a Foreign Language. This provides the simple answer to the question very commonly asked - what does TOEFL stand for? It takes more American English and is recommended in acceptance ratios in the USA and Canada, and elsewhere.
➤IELTS stands for International English Language Testing System. This is a little broader in style of English, with a little British English and some general global influences to it.
Both are tests of language ability that are accepted by universities, and many employers, along with immigration offices. Students regularly use the phrase ielts toefl ibt conversion and sometimes go so far as to even search for sat to toefl score conversion in trying to gauge how they may score on the test.
Differences in Test Format
While students preparing for the toefl or the ielts, may miss test format. However, the format does have an impact on performance.
IELTS
➤The speaking is a conversation with the examiner on a one to one basis.
➤The IELTS is more flexible regarding where you can take it and will be provided worldwide, regardless of country; including the UK, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand.
➤IELTS has a list of four sections; Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.
TOEFL
➤The TOEFL has a list of four sections; Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing.
➤The speaking section of the TOEFL is using a computer microphone versus a face to face conversation.
➤The TOEFL is preferred by American institutions.
Many universities will show the ielts score and toefl score comparison for applicants to easily understand their eligibility.
Scoring System and Conversion
One area of confusion for students is scoring. That is where terms like ielts converter to toefl or ielts to toefl conversion arise.
➤IELTS is scored out of 9.
➤TOEFL iBT is scored out of 120.
Many students are searching for conversion ielts toefl or toefl ibt to ielts conversion tables to understand how one score translates into another. For example:
➤IELTS 7.0 equals about a TOEFL 94.
➤IELTS 6.0 equals TOEFL 78.
Many universities provide the toefl and ielts score comparison so the applicants can gauge their chances of admission. If you have taken world language classes or competency exams, as well, both test scores could further help support your academic profile.
Choosing the Right Test
Choosing between tests depends on you and the universities you want to attend. Here are some factors to consider:
➤If you like to speak with people, then IELTS might be a better fit.
➤If you like using technology, then TOEFL might be the easier option.
➤For students applying to the US, the TOEFL is usually the first consideration.
➤For students applying to the UK, Australia, or Canada, IELTS may be a preferred option.
Some students ask, "are good sleepers better at toefl?" The truthful answer is that practice makes more of a difference than sleep habits - preparing well and consistently, is the real secret to success.
If you are still uncertain, career counselling platforms like Infigon Futures counselling services can help expect you to make informed decisions about which test to choose.
Beyond Test Scores
Some students are tunnel-visioned on their toefl scores compared to ielts but admission is pretty much more than that. Universities could also ask, "did you take any world language coursework or competency exams?" The admissions team will take into account your whole academic portfolio and background even including your extracurriculars and internships.
If you are looking for options beyond a language exam then check out Infigon Futures blogs to see what is the right decision for you between internship and apprenticing, both updates can complement your application from your english test.
Preparing the EASY Way
➤Take practice tests as often as possible.
➤Know the exam structure of ielts exam -- toefl before you begin.
➤Use tools online such as ielts to toefl ibt conversion calculators to set goals.
➤Be consistent with your reading, writing, listening, and speaking practice.
On the other hand, if you really wanted, you could explore further tools like, the Infigon Futures psychometric test online to learn strengths and weaknesses before preparing.
If you are someone who opines for a competitive exam along with IELTS or TOEFL, you could make further use of Infigon Futures for strategies and trends insights on UPSC 2025 .
Frequently asked questions
Q1. What is the meaning of TOEFL?
Ans. The TOEFL test is an assessment of your use of the English language in an academic context. TOEFL means, Test of English as a Foreign Language.
Q2. Which test is more accepted IELTS or TOEFL?
Ans. Both tests are accepted widely: TOEFL is usually required for the U.S., IELTS is usually required for the U.K. It is also accepted in Canada, Australia and New Zealand.
Q3. How do I check IELTS and TOEFL score comparison?
Ans. You can use the official university websites or you can look for ielts toefl conversion or TOEFL IBT to IELTS conversion charts online.
Q4. Can I take a TOEFL to IELTS converter for exact scores?
Ans. The converters are only estimates. Each university may possibly have their own scale to convert IELTS to TOEFL IBT.
Q5. Did you have any coursework or competency exams in a world language this is required?
Ans. It is not always required, but it improves your application also with the TOEFL or IELTS results.
Q6. How do they check to see to see if it is compare table the TOEFL and IELTS?
Ans. They have internal conversion systems, usually similar to the public IELTS converter to TOEFL charts to determine if they meet their eligibility.
Q7. Which test is easier, toefl or ielts?
Ans. This depends on your strengths. IELTS is better if you like speaking face-to-face, TOEFL is better if you are a more computer type of person.