IELTS and TOEFL have significant differences in terms of test delivery options, time structure, breaks, speaking test, scheduling flexibility, question types, and available versions.
IELTS and TOEFL test sections, which include Listening, Reading, Speaking, and Writing, have their own specific duration, content, question types, tasks, and structure. These sections are designed to assess a wide range of language skills in various contexts. For instance, the IELTS reading practice test formats often include a mix of short-answer questions, multiple-choice questions, and matching exercises, which help evaluate comprehension and analytical abilities. Understanding these formats allows test-takers to prepare more effectively and improve their performance on the actual exam.
IELTS result is given through band scores from 1-9, with each test section receiving an individual band score. Meanwhile, TOEFL is scored in a range of 0-120 points, 0-30 for each section. The IELTS scoring system explained allows test-takers to understand their performance across listening, reading, writing, and speaking sections. Each band score corresponds to specific levels of English proficiency, providing a clear indication of a candidate’s abilities. In contrast, the TOEFL scoring system aggregates scores across four sections, emphasizing overall language comprehension and academic readiness.
IELTS is generally favored in the UK, Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore for both immigration, work, and studying purposes. On the other hand, TOEFL is preferred by American and Canadian academic institutions.
IELTS and TOEFL tests have varying frequency, sessions, structure, centers, result time, and registration method. The IELTS test is offered up to 365 days per year while TOEFL is accessible about 50 times a year.
IELTS test fee in Singapore is approximately SGD 388, with extra fees for additional score reports, rescheduling, and remarking. Alternatively, a TOEFL test cost SGD 365-385, with additional fees for score report requests past the free 4.
IELTS and TOEFL Singapore have available free and paid preparation resources in their official websites and apps.
Selecting between IELTS and TOEFL involves identifying your strengths and weaknesses, your available dates, exam type preferences, and the purpose of your result.
What Are the Key Differences Between IELTS and TOEFL?
IELTS and TOEFL differ significantly in test delivery options, time structure, breaks, speaking test, scheduling flexibility, question types, and available versions.
- Test delivery options: IELTS is available in both computer-delivered and paper-based formats, while TOEFL is primarily computer-based.
- Time structure: IELTS has a total duration of 2 hours and 45 minutes, while TOEFL lasts for 3 hour and 56 minutes.
- Breaks: There is no break between sections in IELTS, while there is a 10-minute break after Listening in TOEFL.
- Speaking test: IELTS Speaking is conducted face-to-face with an examiner, while TOEFL is held by speaking into a computer microphone.
- Scheduling flexibility: IELTS Speaking test can be booked 7 days before or after the other sections, while all TOEFL sections are completed in one day.
- Question types: IELTS has various question types like multiple choice, short answers, etc., while TOEFL is predominantly multiple-choice with integrated tasks.
- Available versions: IELTS offer Academic and General Training format, while TOEFL has only one version which focuses on Academic.
How Do IELTS and TOEFL Tests Compare Section by Section?
IELTS and TOEFL test sections such as Listening, Reading, Speaking, and Writing have distinct duration, content, question types, tasks, and structure.
Listening Test
To know the differences between IELTS and TOEFL Listening, be guided by the table below.
| Feature | IELTS Listening | TOEFL Listening |
| Duration | 30 minutes (+10 for paper test) | 41-57 minutes |
| Content | 4 sections, 40 questions total | 3-4 lectures, 2-3 conversations |
| Accents | Various (British, Australian, American, etc.) | Primarily North American |
| Question timing | During or after audio segments | After entire audio segment |
| Difficulty progression | Gradually increases | Consistently academic |
| Note-taking | Not emphasized | Encouraged |
| Special consideration | Audio played once only | Longer, more academic content |
Reading Test
To know the differences between IELTS and TOEFL Reading, be guided by the table below.
| Feature | IELTS Reading | TOEFL Reading |
| Duration | 60 minutes | 54-72 minutes |
| Content | Academic: 3 long passages from journals/books General: Multiple shorter texts | 3-4 academic passages from textbooks |
| Word count | 2,000-2,750 words total | About 700 words per passage |
| Question types | Varied (matching, short answers, true/false/not given, multiple choice) | Primarily multiple-choice |
| Approach | Tests various reading skills | More analytical, connecting ideas |
| Time management | No extra transfer time | Self-contained section |
Speaking Test
To know the differences between IELTS and TOEFL Speaking, be guided by the table below.
| Feature | IELTS Speaking | TOEFL Speaking |
| Format | Face-to-face interview | Computer-recorded responses |
| Duration | 11-14 minutes | 16 minutes |
| Structure | 3 parts: introduction, long turn, discussion | 4 tasks: 1 independent, 3 integrated |
| Scheduling | Can be on different day | Same day as other sections |
| Interaction | Conversational with examiner | No human interaction during test |
| Evaluation | One examiner, immediate assessment | Multiple raters review recordings |
| Style | Natural conversation | Structured response to prompts |
Writing Test
To know the differences between IELTS and TOEFL Writing, be guided by the table below.
| Feature | IELTS Writing | TOEFL Writing |
| Duration | 60 minutes | 50 minutes |
| Tasks | Academic: Visual description + Essay General: Letter + Essay | Integrated source-based task + Opinion essay |
| Time allocation | Task 1: 20 min, Task 2: 40 min | Integrated: 20 min, Independent: 30 min |
| Word count | Task 1: 150+ words, Task 2: 250+ words | Integrated: 150-225 words, Independent: 300+ words |
| Format | Handwritten (paper) or typed (computer) | Always typed |
| Focus | Task achievement and language skills | Source integration and academic writing |
| Unique challenge | Visual interpretation (Academic) | Synthesizing multiple sources |
How Do IELTS and TOEFL Scoring Systems Compare?
IELTS result is given through band scores from 1-9, with each test section receiving an individual band score. To get your overall score, you just need to take the average of the four sections. The IELTS result is typically available less than 2 weeks after the test, 3-5 days for computer-delivered test, and is valid for 2 years.
On the other hand, TOEFL is scored in a range of 0-120 points, 0-30 for each section. The final score is the sum of all test sections and is then converted to scale scores. TOEFL results typically become available in just 6-10 days after the test, with the result having a 2-year validity.
Where Are IELTS and TOEFL Tests Accepted and Recognized?
Both IELTS and TOEFL are universally accepted by academic institutions, but some countries have their preferences. IELTS is generally favored in the UK, Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore. Professional licensing in Singapore often specifies IELTS as the standard test. Meanwhile, TOEFL is preferred by American and Canadian academic institutions, and is commonly not accepted for immigration purposes.
How Do I Convert Between IELTS and TOEFL Scores?
The table below shows the IELTS to TOEFL iBT score conversion table.
| IELTS Band Score | TOEFL iBT Score Range |
| 9.0 | 118-120 |
| 8.5 | 115-117 |
| 8.0 | 110-114 |
| 7.5 | 102-109 |
| 7.0 | 94-101 |
| 6.5 | 79-93 |
| 6.0 | 60-78 |
| 5.5 | 46-59 |
| 5.0 | 35-45 |
| 4.5 | 32-34 |
| 0-4.0 | 0-31 |
What is the IELTS and TOEFL Test Availability in Singapore?
IELTS and TOEFL test availability in Singapore greatly varies in frequency, sessions, structure, centers, result time, and registration method.
| Aspect | IELTS | TOEFL |
| Test Frequency | Up to 365 days a year | 50 times per year |
| Test Sessions | About 3 sessions daily | Fixed schedule |
| Test Day Structure | Flexible, especially for speaking | All components on the same day |
| Test Centers | Multiple centers including British Council, IDP Education, RELC | Fewer centers |
| Result Time | 3-5 days for computer-delivered, 13 days for paper-based | 6-10 days |
| Registration Method | Online, phone, or in person | Primarily online via ETS website |
How Do IELTS and TOEFL Costs Compare in Singapore?
The latest IELTS test fee in Singapore is approximately SGD 388, with additional fees like rescheduling for SGD 80-100 and remarking for SGD 176. Moreover, 5 score reports can be sent for free and additional score reports cost approximately SGD 20.
Meanwhile, TOEFL test in Singapore costs approximately SGD 365-385. Late registration fee is approximately SGD 60 and rescheduling fee is approximately SGD 80. In addition, there are free score reports to 4 institutions and additional score report is priced at SGD 30 each.
What IELTS and TOEFL Preparation Resources Are Available in Singapore?
IELTS and TOEFL Singapore provide free and paid preparation resources in their official websites and apps.
The following are IELTS resources options available in Singapore.
- British Council Singapore
- IDP IELTS
- Cambridge Assessment English
- IELTS.org
The following are TOEFL resources options available in Singapore.
- ETS (Official Test Administrator)
- Princeton Review Singapore
- Kaplan International
How Should I Make My Decision: IELTS or TOEFL?
To choose which test suits your strengths and needs, be aware of your strengths and weaknesses then select what aligns more with IELTS or TOEFL. Consider researching the specific requirements and formats of each test, as a thorough understanding can significantly impact your preparation strategy. Additionally, if you’re also contemplating options like CELPIP, a detailed IELTS vs CELPIP comparison may help clarify which test better fits your language proficiency and future goals. Make sure to evaluate practice materials and sample questions to ensure you select the most suitable exam for your needs. Consider the test format, as IELTS typically includes a speaking component with an examiner, while PTE employs a computer-based system. Additionally, if you are contemplating an IELTS vs PTE comparison, take into account the scoring criteria and how each tests your language skills across different sections. Ultimately, choosing the right test will depend on your specific goals and the requirements of the institutions you are applying to.
Consider IELTS if you prefer the following.
- You prefer face-to-face interaction for the speaking test
- You want more flexibility in test scheduling
- You’re planning to immigrate or study to countries like Australia, Canada, or the UK
- You prefer a mix of question types rather than primarily multiple-choice
- You want the option of a paper-based test
- You’re more comfortable with British English
- You need the test for immigration or professional registration purposes
- You prefer shorter, more varied test sections
- You want faster results
Consider TOEFL if you prefer the following.
- You’re comfortable with computer-based testing
- You’re primarily applying to American universities
- You prefer multiple-choice questions
- You’re more comfortable with American English
- You excel at integrating information from multiple sources
- You prefer a consistent test format throughout