What Is the Difference Between IELTS and TOEFL?

For students planning to study abroad, one of the first important steps is proving their English language ability. Universities in countries such as the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, and many parts of Europe usually require international students to take recognised English proficiency tests before admission.

The two most popular exams are the IELTS and TOEFL. Many students and parents often ask about the difference between IELTS and TOEFL, and which exam is the better choice for university applications.

Understanding the differences between these exams can help students feel more confident and better prepared. While both tests assess English skills in reading, writing, listening, and speaking, they use different formats, scoring systems, and testing styles.

In this guide, we will explain:

• The main differences between IELTS and TOEFL
• How the exams are structured
• Which countries and universities prefer each test
• Which exam may suit different learning styles
• How students can prepare in Malaysia

Whether you are comparing IELTS vs TOEFL for the first time or trying to decide which is easier IELTS or TOEFL, this article will help you make an informed decision.

What Is IELTS?

IELTS is one of the world’s most recognised English proficiency tests. It is widely accepted by universities, immigration authorities, and employers in many countries.

The exam measures four core English skills:

• Listening
• Reading
• Writing
• Speaking

IELTS Academic vs IELTS General Training

There are two versions of the IELTS exam:

IELTS Academic

This version is mainly for students applying to universities, colleges, or professional institutions abroad. It focuses on academic English and is the most common choice for study abroad applications.

IELTS General Training

This version is usually used for migration, work, or studying at the high school. The reading and writing sections are less academic compared to IELTS Academic.

For students planning to enter university programmes overseas, IELTS Academic is normally required.

IELTS Test Structure

The IELTS test structure includes four sections:

Section	Duration	Description
Listening	30 minutes	Students listen to recordings and answer questions
Reading	60 minutes	Academic texts with comprehension tasks
Writing	60 minutes	Two writing tasks
Speaking	11–14 minutes	Face-to-face interview with an examiner

The speaking test may be conducted on the same day or on a different day, depending on the test centre.

IELTS Scoring System

IELTS uses a band score system from 0 to 9.

Examples:

• Band 5.0 – modest user
• Band 6.0 – competent user
• Band 7.0 – good user
• Band 8.0 – very good user

Most universities require scores between 6.0 and 7.0 depending on the course and institution. In Malaysia, some universities may accept students with an IELTS score starting from 5.5, particularly for foundation, diploma, or certain undergraduate programmes. 

Global Acceptance

IELTS is highly recognised in:

• United Kingdom
• Australia
• Canada
• New Zealand
• Malaysia
• Many universities in the United States and Europe

In Malaysia, IELTS is widely accepted by universities, colleges, and professional institutions. Many international students also choose Malaysia as a destination to improve their English before continuing their studies abroad.

Because of its international recognition, IELTS remains one of the most popular options for students planning to study abroad.

What Is TOEFL?

TOEFL is another internationally recognised English exam used for university admissions.

The test is designed mainly for academic environments and is especially popular with universities in the United States.

Like IELTS, TOEFL evaluates:

• Reading
• Listening
• Speaking
• Writing

TOEFL Format Explained

The modern TOEFL exam is primarily internet-based and completed on a computer.

The TOEFL format explained simply means that students answer all sections digitally, including speaking tasks recorded through a microphone.

The TOEFL iBT structure usually includes:

Section	Duration	Description
Reading	35 minutes	Academic reading passages
Listening	36 minutes	Lectures and conversations
Speaking	16 minutes	Responses recorded on computer
Writing	29 minutes	Academic writing tasks

The total exam duration is approximately 2 hours.

TOEFL Scoring System

TOEFL scores range from 0 to 120.

Each section is scored out of 30 points:

• Reading: 30
• Listening: 30
• Speaking: 30
• Writing: 30

Most universities require TOEFL scores between 70 and 100.

 

Popularity in the USA and International Universities

TOEFL has traditionally been strongly associated with universities in the USA. However, today many universities worldwide accept TOEFL scores, including institutions in:

• Canada
• Australia
• Europe
• Asia
• The UK

As a result, students comparing toefl vs ielts for study abroad often find that both exams are accepted by many universities globally.

IELTS vs TOEFL: Main Differences

The comparison below helps explain the main difference between IELTS and TOEFL.

Feature	IELTS	TOEFL
Speaking	Face-to-face examiner	Recorded answers, no live examiner
Listening Accents	Native accents	Mainly North American
Reading Style	Shorter texts and varied question types	Longer academic passages
Writing	Essay and report/letter	Integrated academic tasks
Test Format	Paper or computer-based	Mostly computer-based
Scoring	Band score 0–9	Score 0–120
Duration	Around 2 hours 45 minutes	Around 2 hours
Note-taking	Less intensive	More important
Question Style	Variety of formats	Mostly multiple-choice and integrated tasks
Speaking Experience	More personal interaction	Technology-based
Acceptance	UK, Australia, Canada, worldwide	USA and worldwide

Students researching IELTS vs TOEFL should remember that neither exam is universally better. The best choice depends on the student’s strengths, confidence, and university requirements.

IELTS Speaking vs TOEFL Speaking

One of the biggest differences between the two exams is the speaking section.

IELTS Speaking

The IELTS speaking vs TOEFL speaking comparison often begins with the interview style.

In IELTS, students speak directly with a trained examiner in a face-to-face conversation.

The speaking test includes:

• Personal introduction questions
• Speaking about a topic card
• Discussion questions

Advantages of IELTS Speaking

• More natural conversation
• Easier for students comfortable with people
• Examiner can repeat questions if necessary

Challenges of IELTS Speaking

• Some students feel nervous speaking face-to-face
• Requires confidence in live communication

TOEFL Speaking

In TOEFL, students speak into a microphone while responses are recorded and assessed later.

Tasks often include:

• Summarising reading passages
• Responding to lectures
• Giving opinions within strict time limits

Advantages of TOEFL Speaking

• No direct interaction with examiner
• Comfortable for students who prefer computers

Challenges of TOEFL Speaking

• Strong time pressure
• Requires quick note-taking and organisation
• Less natural conversation style

Some students strongly prefer one style over the other. Students who enjoy conversation often choose IELTS, while students comfortable with technology may prefer TOEFL.

Which Is Easier: IELTS or TOEFL?

A very common question is: Which is easier IELTS or TOEFL?

The answer is different for every student.

There is no universal “easier” exam because both tests evaluate advanced academic English skills.

IELTS May Feel Easier For Students Who:

• Prefer face-to-face speaking
• Are more comfortable with written answers
• Prefer varied question styles
• Are familiar with different native accents

TOEFL May Feel Easier For Students Who:

• Type quickly on computers
• Prefer multiple-choice questions
• Are comfortable with academic lectures
• Are familiar with American English accents

Important Factors to Consider

Computer Skills

TOEFL is strongly computer-based, so typing speed and digital comfort matter.

Speaking Confidence

Students who enjoy personal communication often prefer IELTS speaking interviews.

Listening Ability

TOEFL listening tasks can be longer and more academic.

Academic English Level

Both exams require strong reading and writing abilities.

Time Pressure

TOEFL tasks often involve strict timing and fast responses.

Students should avoid choosing an exam only because someone says it is “easier”. Instead, they should choose the format that best matches their learning style and strengths.

TOEFL vs IELTS for Study Abroad

When comparing TOEFL vs IELTS for study abroad, your destination country is an important factor.

USA

Universities in the United States commonly accept both IELTS and TOEFL. Historically, TOEFL has been more popular in America, but IELTS acceptance has grown significantly.

UK

The United Kingdom widely accepts IELTS for university admissions and visa purposes. IELTS is especially popular among students applying to British universities.

Canada

Canada accepts both exams. Many colleges and universities provide equivalent score requirements for IELTS and TOEFL.

Australia

Australia strongly recognises IELTS, although TOEFL is also accepted by many institutions.

Europe

Universities across Europe increasingly accept both IELTS and TOEFL as part of their study abroad English requirements.

Before registering for any exam, students should always check the official university website to confirm:

• Minimum required score
• Accepted exam types
• Validity period
• Programme-specific requirements

IELTS or TOEFL in Malaysia

Many international students choose Malaysia as a destination to study English and prepare for university entrance exams.

The country offers:

• Affordable living costs
• International environment
• English-speaking education system
• Convenient visa options for many students

Students researching IELTS or TOEFL Malaysia often discover that Malaysia has many authorised exam centres and English language schools.

IELTS Preparation in Malaysia

Malaysia has become a popular destination for English preparation because students can improve their language skills while living in an international environment.

One example is EMS Language Centre, an international language centre located in Kuala Lumpur.

Students at EMS Language Centre can:

• Study Intensive General English
• Improve academic English skills
• Prepare for IELTS
• Practise speaking and writing with experienced teachers

EMS Language Centre also provides IELTS preparation courses designed for students planning to study abroad.

Another advantage is that students can take the IELTS exam through the centre, making the preparation process more convenient for international students already studying in Malaysia.

For many teenagers and parents, studying English in Malaysia can also be less stressful and more affordable compared to some Western countries while still providing strong international exposure.

IELTS Score vs TOEFL Score Comparison

Universities usually provide equivalent IELTS and TOEFL score requirements.

Below is a simple comparison guide:

IELTS Score	Approximate TOEFL Score
IELTS 6.0	TOEFL 60–78
IELTS 6.5	TOEFL 79–93
IELTS 7.0	TOEFL 94–101

These comparisons are approximate because universities may use slightly different conversion standards.

For example:

• One university may require IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL 80
• Another may require IELTS 7.0 or TOEFL 95

 

The most important thing is to always check the official admission requirements directly with your chosen institution, as entry criteria may vary and can change over time. 

Conclusion

Understanding the difference between IELTS and TOEFL is an important step for students planning to study abroad.

Both exams are globally recognised English proficiency tests used by universities around the world. They assess the same core language skills but use different formats and testing styles.

In summary:

• IELTS includes face-to-face speaking interviews
• TOEFL uses computer-based speaking recordings
• IELTS is strongly associated with the UK, Australia, and Canada
• TOEFL has traditionally been popular in the USA
• Both are accepted by many international universities

The right choice depends on:

• University requirements
• Destination country
• Personal learning style
• Confidence with computers and speaking

Students should carefully compare both exams and choose the one that best matches their strengths and study goals.

For students interested in preparing for IELTS in Malaysia, EMS Language Centre offers English courses and IELTS preparation programmes in an international learning environment. Students can also take the IELTS exam through the centre, making it a convenient option for those planning their study abroad journey.