A comparative guide on TOEFL vs IELTS for International Students

    Updated on: 27 Oct 2023 10 min read

    IELTS vs TOEFL

    When applying to universities abroad, non-native English speaking students are required to take either the TOEFL vs IELTS. Both exams are widely accepted, with IELTS accepted by over 9,000 universities in 140 countries and TOEFL by over 11,000 universities in 150+ countries. Although both exams are widely accepted, keep in mind that acceptance of these tests varies depending on the university, course or country you choose to study abroad. TOEFL is preferred by universities in the USA, while IELTS is preferred in countries like Australia, Canada, Germany, the UK, and others. 

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    There is no definitive answer to which test is better as it depends on several factors. Understanding these factors can help you make an informed decision. Consider the following:

    • University or country preference: Check which test your desired university or country prefers. For instance, in the USA, TOEFL is generally preferred over IELTS.
    • Preparation time: If you have a shorter preparation time of 3-6 weeks, then IELTS may be a better choice, while TOEFL may be suitable for a longer preparation time of 8-16 weeks.
    • Mode of exam: IELTS is a computer-based test that requires you to go to the respective testing center, while TOEFL is an internet-based test that can also be taken from home. Consider your preference for the mode of exam.
    • Payment options: TOEFL now accepts more local payment options like local credit cards, debit cards, and wallets, including payment in INR.


    With a thorough understanding of both tests, you can make the best choice for yourself. Ultimately, both tests are globally recognized, so it comes down to personal preference. For more information on these tests or admission processes for universities in different countries, click here.

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Written by Rohit Gidwani

Meet Rohit, an expert in the field of study abroad and Ed-tech with many years of professional experience in content creation and creative writing. Being a BBA graduate has helped him to pursue his professional duties strategically and with creativity.


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Reviewed by Aman Jain

Aman Jain graduated from IIT Kanpur, and currently functions as the CMO at GyanDhan. He is deeply passionate about creating equality in higher education and has directly interacted with 2 Lakh students in his 8-year-long journey.


Specializes in:
Education loan , Study Abroad Admissions


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