Learners of English are often concerned with which language exam to go for. They would often ask, “Which exam is easier?” or “Which exam is better recognized?”.
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) and IELTS (International English Language Testing System) are two of the most commonly used English proficiency tests globally.
The main difference between TOEFL and IELTS is that TOEFL is mostly used by universities in North America, while IELTS is recognized by a wider range of institutions worldwide, including universities, governments, and employers.
TOEFL is computer-based and mainly used by students applying to universities in the United States and Canada, as well as some universities in Europe and Asia. On the other hand, IELTS is available in both computer-based and paper-based formats and is recognized by a broader range of institutions globally, including universities in the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand.
Which exam to choose depends on various factors, such as the country of the university or institution you are applying to, the requirements of the program, and your personal preferences. If you are unsure which test to take, it is best to research the requirements of the institution you are interested in and consult with an educational counselor.
Here is a great video comparing the two tests in terms of type of English used, type of tasks and required skills. Depending on whether or not you have a choice and which type of English you feel more comfortable with – British or American – there are certain things you should take into consideration before attempting any of them.