Tips to consider before taking an English test
The IELTS (International English Language Testing System) and TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) are two of the most widely recognized English proficiency tests used by universities, employers, and governments worldwide to assess non-native English speakers. Both tests aim to measure a person’s ability to use and understand English, but they differ in their structure, focus, and the type of test experience they offer. Below is an in-depth comparison of the two tests, outlining their key differences:
1. Test Format and Structure
IELTS: The IELTS exam is divided into four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. It is offered in two versions: the Academic version for individuals applying for higher education or professional registration, and the General Training version for those who need English for work experience or migration purposes.
- Listening (30 minutes): The listening section consists of four recordings, which feature conversations and monologues in a variety of social and academic settings. Test-takers answer a series of questions based on what they hear.
- Reading (60 minutes): This section includes 40 questions and tests the ability to understand, analyze, and interpret written texts. The Academic reading involves academic passages, while the General Training reading uses texts that one might encounter in everyday life.
- Writing (60 minutes): The writing section has two tasks. In the Academic version, Task 1 asks test-takers to describe visual information (graphs, charts, etc.), and Task 2 is an essay on a given topic. In the General Training version, Task 1 involves writing a letter, and Task 2 is an essay.
- Speaking (11-14 minutes): The speaking section is a one-on-one interview with an examiner and consists of three parts: an introduction, a short speech on a given topic, and a discussion based on that topic.
TOEFL: The TOEFL exam also assesses four skills: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. However, it is more focused on academic English and is primarily used for admission to universities in English-speaking countries.
- Listening (60-90 minutes): This section involves listening to academic lectures, conversations, and discussions, followed by multiple-choice questions that test the test-taker’s comprehension of what was heard.
- Reading (60-80 minutes): The reading section includes 3-4 academic texts followed by multiple-choice questions designed to test reading comprehension, vocabulary, and understanding of academic concepts.
- Writing (50 minutes): The writing section consists of two tasks: one integrated task, where test-takers read a passage, listen to a lecture, and then write about what they’ve learned; and one independent task, where test-takers write an essay based on a prompt.
- Speaking (20 minutes): The speaking section involves six tasks where test-takers are required to speak into a microphone in response to prompts. These tasks involve both independent speaking (where you express your opinion) and integrated speaking (where you summarize information from reading or listening material).
2. Scoring System
IELTS:
- IELTS uses a band scoring system ranging from 0 to 9, where each section of the test is scored individually, and the overall score is the average of the four section scores. For example, a band score of 7.0 means a good level of English proficiency, with the ability to handle complex language and understand the main ideas in academic and social contexts.
- Each band corresponds to a specific level of proficiency:
- 9 = Expert User
- 8 = Very Good User
- 7 = Good User
- 6 = Competent User, etc.
TOEFL:
- TOEFL scores range from 0 to 120 and are based on the total score of all four sections. Each section (Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking) is scored on a scale of 0-30, and the total score is the sum of these scores.
- TOEFL scoring is based on the number of correct answers and is primarily objective. The test uses a scaled scoring system, where a score of around 100-110 is considered very good and indicative of strong academic English proficiency.
3. Test Delivery and Location
IELTS:
- IELTS can be taken in paper-based or computer-based formats. The paper-based test involves written answers for the Listening, Reading, and Writing sections, and the Speaking section is face-to-face with an examiner.
- The computer-based version allows you to complete the Listening, Reading, and Writing sections on a computer, while the Speaking section remains in person with an examiner.
- IELTS is available at test centers in many countries and has multiple test dates throughout the year.
TOEFL:
- TOEFL is primarily a computer-based test (iBT), where all sections are taken on a computer, including the Speaking section, which involves recording answers into a microphone. There are also paper-delivered tests in some areas where internet access is limited, though these are rare.
- TOEFL is administered in over 165 countries and is available throughout the year at test centers. It typically offers fewer test dates compared to IELTS.
4. Test Duration
IELTS:
- The total time for IELTS is approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes. The Listening, Reading, and Writing sections are taken on the same day, while the Speaking section can be on the same day or within a week of the other sections.
TOEFL:
- The total time for the TOEFL exam is approximately 3 hours, but it can range from 3 hours to 4 hours depending on the number of reading passages. The Listening, Reading, and Writing sections are completed in one sitting, while the Speaking section is done last.
5. International Recognition and Use
IELTS:
- IELTS is widely accepted in the UK, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand, and it is also recognized by US institutions. Additionally, it is used for migration purposes, particularly in English-speaking countries.
- IELTS is often preferred for those seeking to study in the UK, as it aligns closely with British English usage and testing norms.
TOEFL:
- TOEFL is primarily used in North America (United States and Canada) for university admissions. However, many universities worldwide, particularly in English-speaking countries, accept TOEFL scores for non-native English-speaking applicants.
- TOEFL is more commonly used for academic purposes, while IELTS is more widely used for both academic and immigration-related applications.
6. Accent and Language Variations
IELTS:
- IELTS features a variety of accents, including British, Australian, and North American accents, in the Listening section. This provides a broader exposure to different forms of English and can be advantageous for candidates from non-native English-speaking countries.
- The Speaking section involves direct interaction with an examiner, which may vary based on the location of the test, as accents and phrasing may be influenced by the examiner’s regional background.
TOEFL:
- TOEFL predominantly uses North American English in the Listening section, with most accents being American and Canadian. This may be a disadvantage for test-takers who are not accustomed to these accents.
- The Speaking section requires candidates to respond to prompts that are designed to simulate academic situations, primarily using North American English vocabulary and structures.
7. Preparation and Practice
IELTS:
- IELTS preparation focuses on task-based skills and requires practice in writing essays, listening to lectures, and engaging in conversations. Many candidates prepare by taking IELTS preparation courses or practicing with sample materials.
- Since IELTS is more interactive with a face-to-face speaking test, it might be more challenging for individuals who are not comfortable with verbal interactions in English.
TOEFL:
- TOEFL preparation is largely test-format focused. Practice tests are important to get familiar with the type of questions and tasks. TOEFL test-takers often work on improving their academic vocabulary and listening comprehension through practice tests and recorded lectures.
- TOEFL does not have a live speaking examiner, which can sometimes make the Speaking section less intimidating for candidates, but it still requires strong speaking skills, as test-takers are expected to record their answers.
Conclusion:
In summary, both IELTS and TOEFL serve similar purposes but are distinct in their approach, format, and focus. IELTS might be more suitable for test-takers who are comfortable with face-to-face interaction and need a broader range of English accents. TOEFL, on the other hand, may be preferred by those looking for a more structured, computer-based testing experience, particularly if they plan to study in the U.S. or Canada. The choice between the two largely depends on the individual’s test-taking preferences, target institutions, and geographical context. Both tests provide reliable and recognized assessments of English proficiency for academic, professional, and immigration purposes.