IELTS versus TOEFL: which is better for me?
There are a lot of similarities between the IELTS and TOEFL exams. They're English exams which check your reading, listening, writing and speaking level, and give you scores in each of these areas. Both are used frequently by universities, employers and visa authorities.
However, there are some significant differences between the IELTS and TOEFL, so choosing the exam that's right for your needs can help you to maximise your chances!
This handy quiz is designed to show you the main differences, and to get you thinking about which exam might suit you better. (But don't take it too seriously - you will need to do your own research as well! Start with our blog article on IELTS and TOEFL).
Would you prefer a paper or computer based exam?
I would be much more comfortable doing an exam with paper and a pen.
I would prefer typing or selecting answers on a computer.
I don't mind.
Do you prefer speaking into a voice recorder or interacting with an examiner?
I would prefer to speak into a voice recorder on a computer.
I would be happier to interact with an examiner and answer their questions.
I don't have any preference.
How good are you at listening and taking notes?
I can listen very well and take good notes.
I'm OK at listening and taking notes.
No, it's not my strong point.
How good are your reading skills (such as skimming and scanning a text)?
My reading skills are great!
I'm just OK at these types of reading skills.
Reading is difficult for me.
What are skimming and scanning?
Are you a student?
Yes!
No, but I'm planning to become a student soon - that's why I need the exam.
No, but I graduated quite recently.
No.
How much time have you got to prepare for the exam?
Lots of time!
Not very much time.
Are you used to sitting for a long time in an exam?
Yes, I like long exams!
No, I prefer shorter exams.
Do you need to learn British or American spellings and pronunciations?
British, please.
American would be better.
Both would be OK for me - I don't mind.
Are you able to travel to a test centre for your test? (Test centres are usually a language institute or college. You might need to travel to another city.)
I can travel to the exam.
No, I will have to do the exam online.
IELTS
Based on your answers, you might be better to apply for the IELTS exam. There are two main types of IELTS exam: General Purpose or Academic, with different questions on the reading and writing sections.
TOEFL is better for you
Based on your answers, you might be better to apply for the TOEFL exam.
Neither exam is better
Your answers are somewhere in the middle: it's hard to say whether you're better doing IELTS or TOEFL. Read more about both exams in our blog.