TOEFL iBT vs IELTS Academic
The TOEFL iBT (0-120 points, online, US-focused) and IELTS Academic (0-9 band, hybrid, Commonwealth-focused) are both English proficiency exams. The TOEFL leans toward academic texts and American English, while IELTS is more everyday language and British English. If you are heading to the US, the TOEFL is more commonly requested; for the UK/Australia/Canada, IELTS. Most universities accept both.
Option 1
US-focused, academic
ETS — internet-based
Option 2
Commonwealth
British Council, IDP, Cambridge
| Criterion | TOEFL iBT | IELTS Academic |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 1 hr 56 min | 2 hr 45 min |
| Format | 100% online (at home or at a center) | Written (paper/computer) + Speaking in a separate session |
| Score | 0-120 (Reading + Listening + Speaking + Writing) | 0-9 band per section + overall |
| Speaking | Microphone recording (16 min, 4 tasks) | Face-to-face with an examiner (11-14 min) |
| Listening | Academic only (lectures + conversations) | Academic + everyday (4 different themes) |
| Writing | Integrated essay + Academic discussion | Task 1 (chart description) + Task 2 (essay) |
| English Accent | Mostly American | Mix of British, Australian, American |
| Result Time | 4-8 days | 13 days (paper), 3-5 days (computer) |
| Validity | 2 years | 2 years |
| Fee | $190-220 | $130-170 |
| US Universities | Preferred | Accepted |
| UK Universities | Accepted | Preferred |
TOEFL iBT is right for you if
IELTS Academic is right for you if
The general view is that IELTS is more 'user-friendly' — the question types are varied (gap-fill, matching, T/F/NG). The TOEFL is more multiple-choice heavy and uses standard Academic English. If you are strong in Reading & Writing, the TOEFL; if your Speaking practice is good, IELTS is more advantageous.
USA: 13,000+ universities prefer the TOEFL, 9,000+ accept IELTS. UK: the UCAS system prefers IELTS, and most universities also accept the TOEFL. Australia/NZ: IELTS is standard, the TOEFL is accepted. Canada: mixed — Toronto leans IELTS, Waterloo more often TOEFL. For a visa, UKVI IELTS may be required.
Fill out the form and a Dream Uni advisor will reach out to schedule your consultation.