Exam Comparison
IELTS vs TOEFL iBT
The definitive comparison of IELTS and TOEFL for 2026
Quick verdict
IELTS and TOEFL are the two most widely accepted English proficiency tests globally. IELTS is accepted by over 11,000 institutions in 140 countries.
Convert your score instantly →IELTS and TOEFL are the two most widely accepted English proficiency tests globally. IELTS is accepted by over 11,000 institutions in 140 countries. TOEFL iBT is accepted by over 12,000 institutions in 160 countries. Both test the same four skills — Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking — but they differ significantly in format, scoring, and test experience. Your choice should depend on your target country, institution, and personal test-taking style.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | IELTS | TOEFL iBT |
|---|---|---|
| Test format | Paper or computer | Computer only |
| Duration | 2 hours 45 minutes | About 2 hours |
| Speaking format | Face-to-face with examiner | Recorded responses to computer |
| Scoring scale | Band 1-9 (0.5 increments) | 0-120 total (0-30 per section) |
| Reading texts | Academic journals, magazines | University-level academic passages |
| Writing tasks | Graph/letter + essay | Integrated + independent essay |
| Listening format | Play once only | Can replay audio |
| Accent | British, Australian, American | Primarily American |
| Results time | 3-5 days (computer) / 13 days (paper) | 4-8 days |
| Validity | 2 years | 2 years |
| Test fee | ~$250 USD | ~$240 USD |
| Retake policy | One Skill Retake available | No partial retake |
Score Conversion Table
| IELTS | TOEFL iBT | CEFR |
|---|---|---|
| 9.0 | 118-120 | C2 |
| 8.5 | 115-117 | C2 |
| 8.0 | 110-114 | C1-C2 |
| 7.5 | 102-109 | C1 |
| 7.0 | 94-101 | B2-C1 |
| 6.5 | 79-93 | B2 |
| 6.0 | 60-78 | B2 |
| 5.5 | 46-59 | B1 |
| 5.0 | 35-45 | B1 |
Score conversions are approximate. Check your institution for official equivalency tables.
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Which Should You Choose?
Applying to UK, Australian, or NZ universities
IELTS is the dominant test in these countries and some institutions prefer or require it
Applying to US universities
Most US universities accept both. TOEFL was historically preferred but IELTS acceptance is now nearly universal
Immigration to Canada or Australia
IELTS is the standard for immigration points-based systems. TOEFL is not accepted for Canadian Express Entry
You prefer speaking to a real person
IELTS Speaking is a face-to-face conversation. TOEFL Speaking is recorded into a microphone
You prefer typing essays
TOEFL Writing is always typed. IELTS offers both handwritten (paper) and typed (computer) options
You have a strong American English background
TOEFL uses primarily American English accents and academic style
IELTS Pros & Cons
TOEFL iBT Pros & Cons
Frequently Asked Questions
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