IELTS vs. TOEFL: A Detailed Comparison | Which is Easier to Score Higher On? [Includes Suitability Quiz]

When planning to study abroad or relocate overseas, one of the first hurdles is deciding: 'Should I take the IELTS or the TOEFL?'

'I thought TOEFL was more common, but I've heard it's easier to get a good score on the IELTS recently.'

'I'm not good at typing, so is IELTS a better choice for me?'

With so much conflicting information, it's easy to feel confused. To put it simply, for many non-native English speakers, it tends to be easier to achieve a target score on the IELTS.

This article provides a detailed comparison of both exams based on the latest data for 2024-2025. We'll go beyond basic specs to help you determine the best choice based on your personal 'English type' and learning style.

1. At a Glance: Basic Comparison of IELTS and TOEFL

First, let's look at the basic details like test duration and fees. The TOEFL was updated in 2023, significantly shortening the test time.

Approximate Score Conversion Generally, the scores required for studying abroad are as follows:

• IELTS 6.0 ≈ TOEFL iBT 70–80
• IELTS 6.5 ≈ TOEFL iBT 80–90
• IELTS 7.0 ≈ TOEFL iBT around 95

2. 3 Reasons Why IELTS is Often More Advantageous for Non-Native Speakers

Why is IELTS often recommended for non-native English speakers? The reason is that its format can be more forgiving of the common habits and weaknesses of English language learners.

① Speaking: A 'Dialogue' vs. a 'Monologue'

This is the biggest difference.

• IELTS: You have a one-on-one conversation with an examiner. Since you can see their face, they might nod to encourage you if you're nervous, and you can ask them to repeat a question if you don't understand.
• TOEFL: You speak into a computer microphone to record your answers within a time limit. It requires strong concentration and time management skills to deliver a logical monologue while surrounded by the noise of other test-takers speaking.

For those who 'get nervous and go blank when talking to a machine,' the ability to use real communication cues in IELTS is a significant advantage.

② Listening: The Ability to 'Preview' Questions

• IELTS: You have time to read the questions before the audio plays. You can also write down your answers as you listen.
• TOEFL: The questions are displayed only after you have listened to a long lecture (approx. 5 minutes). This means your ability to take detailed notes, retain information, and summarize is tested simultaneously.

If you find listening challenging, the IELTS format, which allows you to anticipate keywords, is less demanding.

③ The Presence of 'Integrated Tasks'

The TOEFL features many Integrated Tasks, which require you to, for example, 'read a passage, listen to a lecture, and then summarize them orally.' This means that if your listening skills are weak, your speaking and writing scores could also suffer significantly. In contrast, the skills in IELTS are tested independently, so a weakness in listening has minimal impact on other sections.

3. The Truth About Section-by-Section Difficulty

So, does this mean IELTS is simply easier? Not necessarily. Some people may find certain sections of the TOEFL more manageable.

Reading: Academic Jargon vs. Question Complexity

• TOEFL: The passages are highly academic and contain a lot of specialized terminology (e.g., biology, geology). However, all questions are multiple-choice with four options.
• IELTS: The passages are more like what you'd find in a general interest magazine and are easier to read, but the question formats are diverse. Difficult question types include fill-in-the-blanks (spelling must be correct) and 'True/False/Not Given,' which require precise and careful reading.

Writing: Handwriting vs. Typing

• TOEFL: The test is typing-only. Editing (copying, pasting, deleting) is easy, and there is a word count feature.
• IELTS: You can choose between handwriting for the paper-based test or typing for the computer-based test.

  Regarding writing, more people are finding the TOEFL easier in recent years because it's easier to revise and the tasks have become shorter. The scoring criteria for logical structure in the IELTS essay are very strict.

4. Which Test is for You? A Suitability Checklist

Use the checklist below to help you make a final decision.

IELTS is a good fit for you if...

• [ ] You feel less nervous talking to a person (you prefer face-to-face communication).
• [ ] You are not confident in your listening skills (you want to preview questions).
• [ ] You are a slow or inaccurate typist (you find it easier to organize your thoughts by hand).
• [ ] You struggle with using multiple skills at once (e.g., reading, listening, and then speaking).
• [ ] You are comfortable with British or Australian accents.

TOEFL is a good fit for you if...

• [ ] You are comfortable speaking a monologue into a microphone (you get more nervous with a person).
• [ ] You are a fast typist (you can touch-type).
• [ ] You are good at note-taking.
• [ ] You are very familiar with American English.
• [ ] You have a strong short-term memory.

Conclusion: When in Doubt, Try an Official Practice Test

Generally speaking, for many non-native English speakers, it is often easier to achieve a target score on the IELTS. This is primarily because the speaking and listening formats present lower psychological hurdles than the TOEFL.

However, if you are a proficient typist or skilled at logical summarization, you might be able to aim for a higher score on the TOEFL. The best first step is to try an official free practice test (or sample questions) for both exams and choose the one that 'feels' like a better fit for you.

For IELTS and TOEFL Preparation, Choose 'ELT'

At ELT, our native instructors, experienced in teaching both IELTS and TOEFL, can assess your suitability and propose the optimal study plan for you. If you're wondering, 'Which test will help me reach my target score faster?' please book a free counseling session to discuss your options.

Book a Free Counseling Session with ELT