IELTS VS TOEFL – WHICH IS BETTER?
The journey to studying abroad begins with giving a standardized English test. Since, most courses abroad are offered in English, universities are actively looking for students who can demonstrate ability to cope with an English based education system. The two most common standardized tests are TOEFL and IELTS. Though both are pretty similar, a very common question amongst students is which test to give for maximum results. Which test is easier or more suitable? This article will breakdown the minutiae of the tests and explore the differences, allowing readers to make an informed decision about the tests.
ADMISSIONS
The IELTS test is administered in India by the British Council as well as IDP, a partner organization of IELTS. It is held up to 48 times a year across 35 cities in India. It is essentially a paper based test though an online form has just been introduced. It is accepted by all commonwealth countries such as Britain, Australia, and New Zealand. These countries also use the test to process certain categories of their immigrant visas.
On the other hand the TOEFL is conducted by ETS, a nonprofit based in USA. It is held more than 50 times every year in 4500 locations worldwide. It has both an internet based and paper based form, though the iBT is way more popular. It is accepted by over 10,000 organizations worldwide in 130 countries.
In essence, the acceptability criteria of these tests is completely same. Most universities worldwide accept both as proof of English ability. Just to be sure, it is better to cross check with the official university website. IELTS does offer a tiny advantage in that it is offered across more locations in India more frequently. If you’re time bound, you should consider taking the IELTS.
THE ACCENT USED
The TOEFL is a completely American English based test formulated by American linguistic experts. They use the American system of spelling which is quite different than that of the British method. And since spelling mistakes count, choosing a test based on your knowledge is necessary. Choose IELTS coaching preparation in Jaipur if you are more comfortable with commonwealth accents, otherwise TOEFL will suit you fine. Both linguistic systems use different words for different objects such as ‘apartment and flat’ and this may throw you off.
MULTIPLE CHOICE VS WRITING ANSWERS
The TOEFL uses a multiple choice pattern to test various aspects of your English ability while IELTS uses a large variety of questions. If you prefer choosing one option from many and believe it is one of your strengths, the TOEFL is the choice for you. If you are more adept at analyzing and writing answers than choose IELTS. You can learn how to write proper answers for IELTS by taking IELTS coaching in Pune.
SPEAKING TO A PERSON OR A COMPUTER
Another marked difference between the two is how the speaking test in conducted. A shy introvert might be more relaxed when speaking to a computer as is the case with TOEFL. While some others might be more at ease knowing that they are conversing with a real person.
These minute differences might just make all the difference for many students, so choose wisely.