TOEFLPrepTest
Updated for the 2026 TOEFL 1–6 scale

TOEFL vs IELTS

Both prove your English for study and immigration, and almost every university accepts either one. The right choice comes down to format, scoring, and how you prefer to speak. Here is a clear, side-by-side comparison — plus a free TOEFL practice test so you can feel the format yourself.

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FeatureTOEFL iBTIELTS Academic
Full nameTest of English as a Foreign Language (iBT)International English Language Testing System
DeliveryInternet-based, at a test center or at homeComputer or paper, at a test center (or IELTS Online)
LengthAbout 2 hoursAbout 2 hours 45 minutes
SectionsReading, Listening, Speaking, WritingListening, Reading, Writing, Speaking
SpeakingRecorded — you speak into a microphoneFace-to-face interview with a human examiner
AccentMainly North AmericanA mix (British, Australian, North American)
ScoringNew 1–6 band scale (from Jan 21, 2026)0–9 band scale, in half bands
Question styleMostly multiple choice, academic contentVaried: gap-fill, matching, short answer, essays
ResultsTypically within a few days3–13 days depending on format
Accepted by12,000+ institutions worldwide11,000+ institutions worldwide (Academic & General)

Which one should you take?

Choose TOEFL if…

  • You prefer multiple-choice questions and a fully digital test
  • You would rather speak into a microphone than to an examiner
  • You are most comfortable with a North American accent
  • You are applying mainly to US universities and programs

Choose IELTS if…

  • You prefer a face-to-face speaking interview
  • You like variety in question types over multiple choice
  • You are applying in the UK, Ireland, Australia or New Zealand
  • You may also need IELTS General for immigration

Frequently asked questions

Is TOEFL or IELTS easier?

Neither is objectively easier — it depends on your strengths. TOEFL is often more comfortable for test-takers who prefer multiple-choice questions, a fully digital experience, and speaking into a microphone rather than talking to a person. IELTS can suit those who prefer a face-to-face speaking interview and a wider variety of question types. If you get nervous speaking to an examiner, TOEFL's recorded format is usually less stressful.

Do universities accept both TOEFL and IELTS?

In the vast majority of cases, yes. Most universities in the US, UK, Canada, Australia and Europe accept either exam and publish a required score for both. Always confirm on the program's own admissions page, since a few institutions state a preference or list only one.

How do TOEFL and IELTS scores compare?

As a rough orientation, an IELTS band of 6.5 is broadly comparable to a legacy TOEFL total of about 79–93, and IELTS 7.0 to about 94–101. On TOEFL's new 1–6 scale, a band of roughly 4.5–5 lines up with the IELTS 6.5–7.0 range that many programs ask for. These are approximate ranges — use the requirement published by your specific program.

Which should I choose for graduate school in the US?

Both are accepted by almost all US graduate programs. TOEFL was originally the North American standard and is still the most widely recognized there, so if a program lists only one, it is more often TOEFL. If you are comfortable with either, choose the one whose format plays to your strengths — especially the speaking section.

Can I practice TOEFL for free before deciding?

Yes. You can take a full-length TOEFL practice test here for free — all four sections with a real exam timer and auto-scoring — so you can experience the TOEFL format before committing to either exam.

Not sure yet? Try TOEFL free.

The best way to decide is to experience the format. Take a full-length TOEFL mock exam — all four sections, real timer, instant scoring — completely free.

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