IELTS vs TOEFL: Which English Test Should You Take?

## Introduction Choosing between IELTS and TOEFL is one of the first decisions international students face when applying for scholarships and university admissions. Both tests measure English proficiency, but they differ in format, scoring, and acceptance. This guide compares **IELTS vs TOEFL** to help you choose the right test for your scholarship applications in 2026. --- ## Why English Tests Matter for Scholarships Most scholarships and universities require proof of English proficiency. Your score can: - **Determine eligibility** — many scholarships have minimum score requirements - **Strengthen your application** — high scores demonstrate academic readiness - **Open more opportunities** — some scholarships only accept specific tests - **Affect visa applications** — some countries require English scores for student visas --- ## IELTS vs TOEFL: Key Differences ### Format | Feature | IELTS | TOEFL iBT | |---------|-------|-----------| | Duration | 2 hours 45 minutes | 2 hours | | Sections | Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking | Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing | | Speaking | Face-to-face with examiner | Recorded responses on computer | | Writing | Handwritten or computer | Typed on computer | | Scoring | 0-9 band scale | 0-120 total score | | Cost | ~$250 | ~$200 | | Validity | 2 years | 2 years | ### Which Test Is Accepted Where? **IELTS is preferred in:** - United Kingdom - Australia - Canada (accepted alongside TOEFL) - Europe (most countries) - New Zealand **TOEFL is preferred in:** - United States - Canada (accepted alongside IELTS) - Some European universities **Both are accepted by:** - Most major scholarships (Chevening, Fulbright, DAAD, Commonwealth) - Most international universities worldwide --- ## Which Test Is Easier? Neither test is objectively easier — it depends on your strengths: **Choose IELTS if you:** - Prefer face-to-face speaking tests - Are more comfortable with British English - Like variety in question formats - Prefer reading shorter passages **Choose TOEFL if you:** - Prefer typing your essays - Are more comfortable with American English - Like speaking to a computer (less intimidating for some) - Prefer multiple-choice questions --- ## Score Requirements for Popular Scholarships | Scholarship | IELTS Minimum | TOEFL Minimum | |-------------|---------------|---------------| | Chevening | 6.5 (no band below 5.5) | Not specified | | Fulbright | 6.0-7.0 (varies) | 79-100 (varies) | | DAAD | 6.5 | 90 | | Commonwealth | 6.5 | 79 | | Gates Cambridge | 7.5 | 100 | | Erasmus Mundus | 6.5-7.0 | 90-100 | --- ## How to Prepare for Each Test ### IELTS Preparation - Practice all four sections equally - Focus on time management — especially in Reading - Practice speaking with a partner or tutor - Write practice essays by hand if taking paper-based test - Use official Cambridge IELTS practice tests ### TOEFL Preparation - Practice taking notes while listening - Get comfortable typing essays quickly - Practice speaking into a microphone - Familiarize yourself with the computer interface - Use official ETS practice materials --- ## Alternatives to IELTS and TOEFL If neither test works for you, consider: - **Duolingo English Test** — cheaper ($59), taken online from home - **PTE Academic** — computer-based, results in 2 days - **Cambridge English** — C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency - **Medium of Instruction Certificate** — free letter from your university > **See more:** [Scholarships Without IELTS](/blog/top-scholarships-that-dont-require-ielts) --- ## Tips for Getting a High Score - **Start preparing 3-6 months** before your test date - **Take a practice test first** to identify your weak areas - **Focus on your weakest section** during preparation - **Read English content daily** — news, books, academic articles - **Listen to English podcasts** and watch English media - **Practice writing essays** under timed conditions - **Book your test early** — popular dates fill up fast - **Aim higher than the minimum** — a higher score strengthens your application --- ## Use ScholarPath AI to Find Scholarships Not sure which scholarships match your English test score? **ScholarPath AI** factors in your test scores when matching you with eligible scholarships. {{SCHOLARSHIP_FINDER}} --- ## Frequently Asked Questions ### Can I submit both IELTS and TOEFL? Usually you only need one. Check the specific scholarship or university requirements. ### Which test has faster results? TOEFL results are available in 4-8 days. IELTS results take 13 days for paper-based and 3-5 days for computer-based. ### Can I retake the test? Yes, you can retake both tests as many times as you want. Your highest score will be used. ### Do some scholarships accept neither? Yes, some scholarships accept alternatives like Duolingo or MOI certificates. See our guide on [scholarships without IELTS](/blog/top-scholarships-that-dont-require-ielts). --- ## Conclusion Both IELTS and TOEFL are excellent tests accepted by most scholarships and universities. Choose the one that best suits your strengths and target destination. **Find scholarships that match your English score.** [Use ScholarPath AI](/scholarship-finder). > **Related Articles:** > - [Top 20 Scholarships Without IELTS](/blog/top-scholarships-that-dont-require-ielts) > - [How to Study in Canada Without IELTS](/blog/how-to-study-in-canada-without-ielts) > - [Best Fully Funded Scholarships Without IELTS](/blog/best-fully-funded-scholarships-without-ielts-2026)