In this era of rapid globalisation, English has become an important bridge between different countries. For those who want to prove their language skills through English exams, it is important to choose the right one. When faced with the choice between IELTS and TOEFL, candidates need to make a decision based on their own needs and the characteristics of the test.
Highlights
- IELTS is considered to be a more realistic test of English language proficiency than TOEFL.
- The IELTS part of the oral examination involves interaction with a real person, while the TOEFL oral examination is recorded by a machine.
- IELTS preparation should focus on adapting to a wide range of question types and improving speaking skills.
- The two English language tests are internationally recognised and candidates should choose the appropriate test according to their individual circumstances.
- The fees for IELTS and TOEFL show different ranges in Hong Kong and candidates can choose according to their budget.
IELTS and TOEFL Overview
IELTS is jointly administered by the University of Cambridge, the British Council and IDP Education Australia. TOEFL, on the other hand, has about 1,200 test centres in nearly 180 countries around the world. This shows their popularity and recognition.
In China, the TOEFL is taken four times a year, while the IELTS is taken in 13 cities, twice a month in Beijing. If your TOEFL score is over 600, it will be easier for you to study abroad.
Different scores are required for study or immigration purposes. For example, you need an IELTS score of 4 to study in the UK. However, if you are going to Australia to study for an undergraduate degree, you will need 6 points. The recommended score for Canadian immigration is 5. Moreover, IELTS and TOEFL scores are valid for two years.
The IELTS and TOEFL tests differ in content and format. The IELTS test is scored from 1 to 9 and can have a half-point difference. It has a reading section with a variety of questions that examines general ability. TOEFL, on the other hand, is based on multiple choice questions and has a total score of 677, but does not have an oral section.
| Examination Items | IELTS | TOEFL |
|---|---|---|
| Examination Authority | Cambridge University Local Examinations Syndicate, British Council, IDP Education Australia | About 1200 test centres in 180 countries |
| Number of Examinations in China | Beijing twice a month | Four examinations in a year |
| Suitability for Study Abroad | Learning needs vary from country to country | Higher scores (>600) are more suitable for staying in school |
| validity period | two years | |
| exam format | Contains a spoken language component, with a variety of question types. | Multiple choice questions, no oral component |
| recognition | More than 9,000 colleges and universities accept | Accredited by more than 3,000 colleges and universities in the United States |
| Scoring | Half a point for scores 1-9 | Total score 677 |
| Additional information | Oral 4-5 minutes, IELTS fee RMB 1,856 | Pay online, transcripts will be sent out on the 10th working day. |
The number of IELTS test takers has exceeded 2.5 million. It is recognised in 140 countries and territories around the world. In the United States, over 3,000 colleges and universities recognise IELTS scores. This includes prestigious schools such as Harvard and Princeton. This shows that IELTS is the ideal choice for candidates.
Difference in Exam Question Types: Multiple Choice Questions vs.
It is important to understand the differences between IELTS and TOEFL in terms of question types. It can effectively help candidates to choose the most suitable test for themselves.
TOEFL Question Types
The TOEFL test favours a multiple-choice format. This format allows the test taker to find the correct answer by elimination. The questions are clearly structured and the options are concise.
This design helps to quickly assess students' reading and listening comprehension.
Introduction to IELTS question types
The IELTS test is more varied than the TOEFL and has a wider range of questions. It covers a variety of question types, such as matching questions and fill-in-the-blank questions.
This requires students to adapt to different forms of questions and to develop an understanding of a wide range of topics and diversified thinking.
IELTS is recognised by more than 11,000 organisations worldwide. It has a wide reach in more than 140 countries.
The IELTS is highly recognised for both academic and immigration purposes. It is popular in the UK, USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand.
In the United States, 95% of the top 200 colleges and universities recognise the IELTS as a language diploma for undergraduate applications. At the graduate level, the percentage is even as high as 99%.
Most university admissions officers (83%) believe that the IELTS accurately reflects an applicant's English language ability.
Exam Content Analysis: Professional Knowledge Versus Daily Application
Whether you're facingTOEFLtake an examThe academic challenges of the world's most important universities and colleges, orIELTS examEach of these examinations has its own unique characteristics. They test students'Academic knowledgeandDaily EnglishThere is a focus on competencies.
TOEFL Key Points
The TOEFL is known for its academic nature. The reading and listening sections cover areas such as technology and the environment. Students need to have a rich academic vocabulary.
Lifestyle Content for the IELTS Test
In contrast, IELTS is concerned with a candidate's ability to apply English in everyday situations. It reflects more on the candidate'sDaily EnglishLevel.
| Examination Features | IELTS | TOEFL |
|---|---|---|
| major form | Paper and pencil test | Computer Testing |
| Content Focus | everyday lives | Academic Content |
| Difficulty | Relatively easy | More difficult |
| Scoring System | grade-point average system | 30 marks for each section, total 120 marks |
| Exam type | Category A (Academic) / Category G (Immigration) | Mainly for academic research |
| Recognised Areas | Commonwealth countries | North American countries |
| Comparison of Examination Formats | Pen and Paper Test Combined Face-to-face Oral Examination | Full Computer Test |
| Speaking Test | Face to Face | Recording |
| Listening Materials | Multiple formats (dialogue, podcasts) | Mainly lectures and discussions |
| Reading Materials | Diversity of genres | Academic Articles |
| Writing Tasks | Essay Writing and Graphic Interpretation | Synthesis and Independent Writing |
PreparationIELTS WritingBeginners should start with basic vocabulary and grammar. Strengthen your understanding by practising exercises and analysing errors. Attend a training class to learn in a more structured way. Practising with native English speakers helps to improve speaking skills. Finally, practice mock tests to better prepare for exams.
Oral Test: Machine Recording VS Live Dialogue
Unique Format of TOEFL Oral Exam
The TOEFL Speaking test requires test takers to answer machine questions. This is for people who lack the ability to practice communicating with native English speakers on a daily basis. It is scored from 4 to 0, depending on how you describe, use the language and develop the topic.
Interactive mode of the IELTS oral examination
IELTS simulates a real conversation and takes about 11 to 14 minutes. Candidates are required to introduce themselves, express their views and discuss issues in depth. It is a test of spontaneity and natural communication.
In order to prepare for the oral examination, it is important to engage in daily conversation practice.TOEFL Practice Online (TPO)Resources such as the "The Pathfinder" are also very helpful. Learn from others' experiences and avoid mistakes. Intensive practice is the best way to improve TOEFLOrally speakingandIELTS Oral ExamThe key to the score.
| Examination Items | TOEFL Interpretation | IELTS Oral Exam |
|---|---|---|
| Test Method | Machine Recording | Real Life Dialogue |
| Content Orientation | Academic Scene | Daily Life Dialogue |
| examination time | Short answer focus | 11 to 14 minutes of interaction |
| Scoring Categories | Description, Delivery, Language Use, Theme Development | Fluency, Accuracy, Vocabulary, Communication Skills |
| Exam Marks | 0 to 4 points | Comprehensive Assessment of Components |
These comparisons make it clear to candidates thatEnglish conversation skillsexistIELTS Oral ExamImportant. Learn how to prepare based on strengths and school requirements. Continuous practice and active learning, whether in academics or in everyday communication, are essential to enhance the quality of your education.TOEFLOrally speakingandIELTS Oral ExamofPerformance is key.
ielts toefl certified organisations and international recognition
In the context of globalised education.IELTSandTOEFLIELTS and TOEFL are important for students who want to study abroad. IELTS and TOEFL are not just about English language proficiency, they are also the ticket to international study. This demonstrates their immenseInternational recognition.
TOEFL is issued by ETS, an American educational testing service. Since the cheating incident in 2014, the recognition has been affected in some countries. However, TOEFL is still important globally. Multiple test centres and a convenient registration process make theTOEFLStill popular.
IELTS is jointly organised by Cambridge English Language Testing Institute, British Council and IDP Education Group. It is the only English language test recognised by the immigration authorities of the UK, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. WithieltsSkills are becoming important and more organisations are joining the IELTS Partnership Programme to improve candidate standards.
The level of recognition of English language tests varies. In Singapore, IELTS and TOEFL are widely recognised, and PTE is also well recognised, but less so in many neighbouring countries.
The following is information from the British Council's survey in Mainland China:
| Test Name | recognition | Examination Duration | Expiry date of results | Special Records |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| IELTS | Over 12,000 organisations Over 140 countries and territories |
– | – | The only one recognised by the UK, Canada, Australia and New Zealand immigration authorities. |
| TOEFL | Worldwide | 3 hours | 2 years | Cheating on substitute examinations in 2014 |
| PTE | Highly recognisable | Full marks for each part are 90 | 2 years | – |
| Multi-Neighbouring Countries | Lower level of recognition | 1 hour | 2 years | Total 160 points |
Examination timeliness and certificate validity period
In recent years.IELTSandTOEFLofThe number is increasing. They provide many opportunities for students who want to study abroad. These two examinations are becoming more and more important.Examination CertificateMore and more importance is being attached to it.
TOEFLThere are about five opportunities a year, maybe more in some areas. Beijing and DalianIELTS examIt is held every month and sometimes additional dates are added. The TOEFL test fee is approximately $1300 and the IELTS is $1500.
If a candidate does not meet theIELTSIf you are interested in studying abroad, you may consider taking a foreign language preparatory course. Many countries offer such programmes to international students to help them improve their language skills before entering university.
| Fee Type | TOEFL | IELTS Exam |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Examinations | About 5 times/year | Monthly/specific cities |
| Exam fees | About $1300 | About $1500 |
| Certificate Validity | 2 years | 2 years |
| Substandard Options | Preparatory Language School | Preparatory Language School |
Exam Time, Venue and Application Methods
| Exam name | Latest Examination Arrangements | Examination Venue | Enrolment Information |
|---|---|---|---|
| SSAT | 16 October 2021-23 April 2022 | Beijing, Shanghai, etc. | School Enrolment |
| AP | 2-13 May 2022 | Mainland China, Hong Kong, etc. | School or Online Enrolment |
| TOEFL iBT® | Rolling Arrangements for the Year | Multiple locations globally | Application on the official website will be closed 7 days before the examination. |
| SAT | 28 August 2021 to 4 June 2022 | International Multi-location | Official website or school enrolment |
| ACT | Multiple times per year | Beijing Foreign Studies University, etc. | Official Website Registration |
joinIELTS examYou will find that it is the same as theTOEFLtake an examIELTS allows you to register in many cities around the world and to choose your test dates more freely. Test results are usually valid for two years, and candidates can re-register at any time. Results are sent by registered mail within 13 days of taking the test and can be checked online after 28 days.
Candidates under the age of 16 are advised to consider whether it is appropriate for them to take theIELTSTOEFLExams. Be prepared for the challenges you may encounter in the future.
Comparison of Examination Fees
When you are planning to take an international English exam.Affordability also needs to be taken into accountIt's all about your personal budget. It's all about your personal budget and which exam you choose. There are two main choices: IELTS and TOEFL, and candidates are often concerned aboutIELTS Registration FeeandTOEFLRegistration fee.
TOEFL has been evolving since 1964, moving from a paper-based test to the iBT online format. The IELTS has been introduced since 1980 and both exams are recognised around the world. Knowing the fees for these exams is helpful for candidates, allowing them to better prepare and reduce the financial stress of registering.
Here is a table comparing the fees for the two tests. It details the entry fees and the number of countries and organisations accepting the test for candidates to take.Personal BudgetVery useful.
| Exam type | Enrolment Fee (HKD) | Accepting country | Number of Recipient Organisations | Examination Duration | Total Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IELTS | 2,380 | 140+ | 11,000+ | 2 hours 45 minutes | 0-9 (per part) |
| TOEFL iBT | 1,560 | 100+ | 10,000+ | 3 hours 30 minutes | 0-120 (0-30 per part) |
Exam Preparation and Exam Tips
join ielts exams maybe TOEFLPreparation is important. We have provided preparation strategies and advice for both exams.
TOEFL Preparation Strategies
Although many students have good English language skills, they are not able to speak English well in the TOEFL It is still difficult to get high scores. Effective strategies include memorising vocabulary quickly. Research has found that we quickly forget what we have learnt, so repetition is important.
To remember longer, it is recommended to review the vocabulary on days 1, 2, 4, 8 and 16 after learning. This will strengthen your memory.
Most Chinese students are good readers but slow readers. An effective reading strategy is to scan the text quickly and then look for the answers.
Listening is very important in the TOEFL test. It is recommended that you pay attention to key content and key words to help you understand and remember.
In the speaking section, it is important to be able to express your thoughts clearly. Focus on structure when practising to ensure that you are clear and logical.
The writing test includes independent and integrated tasks. The emphasis is on clearly expressing and analysing ideas in reading and listening materials.
Preparation Advice for IELTS Candidates
Preparation ielts exams When you take the TOEFL test, focus on improving your speaking skills and adapting to a variety of question types. Practise different types of questions from TOEFL to improve your ability to cope with them.
These tips are valuable, especially for students preparing for IELTS and TOEFL. The focus is on vocabulary memory, reading strategies, listening comprehension, speaking fluency and writing skills.
| Skill | TOEFL | IELTS exam |
|---|---|---|
| Word Memory | Quick and Repetitive Learning Method | Adaptation to different question types |
| Reading Strategies | Quick Scan Articles | Reading Enhancement |
| Listening to Understanding | Record key content and vocabulary | Diversified Listening Exercises |
| spoken expression | Structured Answer Exercise | Real-time interactive dialogue training |
| Writing skills | Analysing Perspectives from Reading and Listening | Expressions for everyday practical applications |
Advice on Exam Choices: Academic Progress and Career Development
Facing ChoicesIELTS ExammaybeTOEFLAt the same time, candidates are paving the way for the future. For students with clear goals, it is important to understand the global recognition of the exam.
IELTS is recognised in many countries, including China, Hong Kong and the UK. TOEFL is offered by the American Educational Testing Service (AETS) and is also popular worldwide.
They are globally recognised standardised tests of English proficiency and help candidates make better choices.
| Examination Items | IELTS | TOEFL |
|---|---|---|
| Number of recipient countries | 130+ | 130 |
| Number of Recipient Organisations | 9000+ | 8500+ |
| exam format | Pen and Paper/Computer | Computer |
| Speaking Exam Format | Face to Face | Recording |
| Results Announcement Time | 13 days | 48 hours |
Before choosing a test, consider the cost, difficulty level, and purpose of the test, which is about RMB 2,100 for IELTS and RMB 2,200 for TOEFL.
in conclusion
When choosing the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), candidates should evaluate the differences between IELTS and TOEFL.IELTSSince 1980, it has been recognised by more than 140 countries and 11,000 institutions. The fact that 95% to 99% of America's top universities accept IELTS scores is a testament to its international influence.
Candidates need to consider their academic and career needs when deciding. Make an appropriate choice based on your personal circumstances.
IELTS and TOEFL are unique in many ways.IELTSThere are face-to-face speaking tests and quick results release.TOEFL offers convenient online testing.Candidates should choose the appropriate examination according to their needs.
In the globalised world of competition, English language skills play an important role. When choosing IELTS or TOEFL, candidates must understand their academic and professional goals. In this way, they will be able to make solid steps on the road to international English.
FAQ
What are the main differences between IELTS and TOEFL?
The main differences between IELTS and TOEFL are in the type of questions, content, oral examination, scoring and cost. Each test has its own characteristics and is suitable for candidates with different needs.
How to prepare for IELTS and TOEFL?
To prepare for IELTS or TOEFL, you can find a professional tutor.GETUTORProvide professional counselling to help improve examination skills.
What is the difference between IELTS and TOEFL?
While TOEFL questions are mostly multiple-choice, IELTS includes a variety of question types, such as matching and fill-in-the-blanks, which test the candidate's multiple thinking.
What are the differences between the TOEFL and IELTS tests?
TOEFL focuses on academic areas such as science and technology. IELTS, on the other hand, focuses on everyday life and is more relevant to the context of use.
What is the difference between the TOEFL and IELTS oral tests?
The TOEFL interview is recorded and less interactive, while the IELTS interview is one-on-one and emphasises real-time interaction.
What are the certification bodies and international recognition of TOEFL and IELTS?
TOEFL is run by ETS and is widely recognised, while IELTS is run by Cambridge, British Council and IDP and is also highly recognised.
How long is an examination certificate valid for?
IELTS and TOEFL certificates are valid for two years. Cambridge English certificates are open-ended.
How do I sign up for the IELTS or TOEFL exam?
You can find the test centre information on the official website and follow the instructions to register online.
What are the test fees for IELTS and TOEFL?
The IELTS fee is approximately NT$7,200 and the TOEFL fee is approximately NT$5,800, depending on the region.
What are the factors that affect TOEFL and IELTS test scores?
For TOEFL, test-taking skills and familiarity with question types are key. For IELTS, you will need to strengthen your speaking skills and your strategy for varied question types.
What criteria should be used to decide whether to take IELTS or TOEFL?
Candidates should take into account academic plans, career goals and organisational requirements; TOEFL is mostly used in the United States, while IELTS is widely recognised in other English-speaking countries.
