Which is Better IELTS or TOEFL for You in 2025: New Guide

Many students and professionals ask, which is better IELTS or TOEFL? Both exams are widely accepted, but choosing the right one depends on your goals and preferences. If you're wondering which is better to take IELTS or TOEFL, or which is better TOEFL or IELTS, this guide is for you. We'll help you decide which is better to take, IELTS or TOEFL, based on format, scoring, and global recognition.

Latest Facts & News About (2025): Which Is Better, IELTS or TOEFL?

Before you decide which test suits you best, take a look at these latest facts and updates for 2025 that highlight key differences between IELTS and TOEFL or which is better IELTS or TOEFL? in terms of acceptance, format, and student preferences.

• In 2025, IELTS will be accepted by over 12,500 organizations in 140+ countries; TOEFL by 13,000+ institutions in 160+ countries.

• Canada and the UK do not accept TOEFL for migration; IELTS is accepted by all major immigration departments worldwide.

• IELTS offers both paper-based and computer-based tests, while TOEFL is primarily computer-based.

• TOEFL iBT test duration is 195 minutes; IELTS General Training is 165 minutes.

• IELTS speaking is face-to-face with an examiner; TOEFL speaking is recorded via computer.

• IELTS scores are rounded to the nearest 0.5; TOEFL uses a raw-to-scaled system.

• TOEFL is preferred for US universities; IELTS is often required for the UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

• TOEFL Home Edition is available; IELTS does not offer a home version.

• 80% of students find IELTS easier than TOEFL, especially for speaking and listening sections.

• Minimum scores for top universities: IELTS 6.5–7.5, TOEFL 80–100.

Also Read: IELTS Score for Germany: Work & Study Requirements

Latest IELTS vs TOEFL: Understanding the Core Differences in 2025

In understanding which is better IELTS or TOEFL depends on the way the test is scored, its format, and its global recognition. Whether you wish to apply for migration or study at a university, understanding which is better IELTS or TOEFL will help get you in the right direction. In this section, we focus on the common features of both tests which will help answer the big question: which is better IELTS or TOEFL? Ultimately which is better IELTS or TOEFL depends on the motivation of test-takers in each case, their strengths, and the country to which they are headed. So let's explore and compare differences between IELTS and TOEFL on the basis of real-world facts.

Test Format and Structure for IELTS or TOEFL

Both IELTS and TOEFL assess the same four language skills like Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing but their test formats are quite different:

Scoring System: IELTS vs TOEFL

The way each test is scored also plays a big role in determining which is better, IELTS or TOEFL:

Global Acceptance and Recognition

Which is better IELTS or TOEFL? thus depends much upon the chosen destination.

• IELTS is, by some estimates, accepted by more than 12,500 organizations in 140 countries, including all major immigration departments.

• TOEFL is accepted by over 13,000 institutions in more than 160 countries but not accepted for migration to Canada or the UK.

• Thus, IELTS is more preferred for the UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

• In contrast, the United States universities normally require TOEFL.

Which Exam Is Better: IELTS or TOEFL for Your Goals? Latest Guide 2025

Some are better for university entrance, some for immigration, and some for professional registration. So if you want a proper explanation in choosing which one's better for you according to your purpose IELTS or TOEFL this is the suitable section. So let's get down to testing these waters about which is better IELTS or TOEFL, within the ambit of the different circumstances for which either one of them may be used. Knowing which is better IELTS or TOEFL can prevent a waste of time or money on any of the three pursuits considered. Read on to find out which is better TOEFL or IELTS.

For University Admissions From IELTS or TOEFL

If you're applying to colleges or universities, you may be wondering which is better TOEFL or IELTS for your academic goals. Both exams are widely accepted, but preferences vary by country and institution.

For Migration and Work Visas

When we talk about immigration, the choice of which is better IELTS or TOEFL?, becomes very much clear with reference to country-specific policies.

• Canada: Express Entry and other visa programs accept only IELTS General Training, whereas TOEFL is not accepted for immigration.

• UK: The UK Home Office accepts IELTS for UKVI and not TOEFL for immigration and work.

• Australia & New Zealand: Both tests are accepted, but the IELTS is much more widely used.

For Professional Certification

IELTS or TOEFL, which is more effective for certifications and licensures, often becomes a common question for professionals who belong to health, engineering, and other regulated industries requiring English proficiency certificates.

• For Nursing & Healthcare (UK, Canada, Australia): Broad acceptance for IELTS Academic.

• Engineering and Technology: Both tests may be accepted; however, regional bodies prefer IELTS in most cases.

• Legal and Government Jobs: Among the commonest tests for official government appointments, especially in the Commonwealth countries, is IELTS.

Also Read: Is 7.5 a Good IELTS Score? Here is the Truth

Latest IELTS vs TOEFL: Section-by-Section Breakdown 2025

An actual comparison of which exam is better TOEFL or IELTS, therefore, focuses on how the exam really judges and tests the English language of a candidate in all four areas of reading, listening, writing, and speaking. In that respect, both these tests have some common overlapping objectives, but the experience and nature of taking either test are quite different. Here is a breakdown of which exam is better TOEFL or IELTS? Regarding structure, question types, and delivery to give you clarity. Now, for easier comparison, let us see which exam is better TOEFL or IELTS? Based on difficulty, task type, and actual experiences of test takers, we have considered it in every section.

1. Reading

If you're confident in your reading skills but unsure about passage types of question formats, examining the Reading section is essential to decide which exam is better TOEFL or IELTS for your academic comprehension.

2. Writing

When it comes to expressing ideas in written form, it's important to look closely at the tasks and evaluation to determine which is better IELTS or TOEFL? your writing style and strengths.

3. Listening

If you struggle with different accents or real time audio, comparing Listening sections can help you decide which is better IELTS or TOEFL? for your hearing and comprehension abilities.

4. Speaking

The Speaking section is often a dealbreaker for many test-takers. Whether you prefer human interaction or a tech-driven format can help you choose which is better IELTS or TOEFL? for your speaking confidence.

Also Read: Minimum IELTS Score for Australia Work Visa: Latest Guide

Which Is Easier: IELTS or TOEFL? Latest Guide in 2025

Knowing which is better to take IELTS or TOEFL isn’t just about test difficulty—it’s about understanding what each exam is designed for. The right choice can save you time, money, and effort. So, let’s look at which is better to take IELTS or TOEFL depending on your purpose.

1. For Study Abroad

Considerations about which is better to take, IELTS or TOEFL, depending on region and university requirements since your aim is higher learning, especially in English-speaking countries:

• United States: In the U.S., most universities accept the TOEFL with a preference.

• United Kingdom: IELTS Academic is required by most schools and for student visa applications. 

• Canada: The Majority of institutions accept both, however, IELTS is preferred due to better alignment with visa processes. 

• Australia & New Zealand: Both are accepted, with a slightly higher number of IELTS-tested cases for the combined academic and immigration purposes. 

2. For Immigration and Work Visa

For immigration, the answer to take IELTS or TOEFL is much more explicit:

• Canada: Only IELTS General Training is accepted for immigration; TOEFL is not.

• UK: IELTS for UKVI is needed for almost all visa classes.

• Australia and New Zealand: Both are accepted, but IELTS is recommended by most immigration consultants. 

3. For Professional Registration

Knowing which is better to take, IELTS or TOEFL, is very important if you are applying for professional registration in health, engineering, or legal fields: 

• Healthcare (nurses, doctors, etc.): Normal practice demands IELTS Academic for professional registration in the U.K., Australia, and Canada.

• Engineering & Technology: Acceptable in both, yet IELTS is more in use in Commonwealth countries.

• Legal and Public Service: In Public Services and Legal fields, IELTS is a common requirement.

How to Choose the Right Test for You in 2025?

Making the comparison between which is better IELTS or TOEFL involves weighing the test structure, test scoring, test availability, and your comfort level with technology or a person's interaction. Ask yourself the key questions, and you will arrive at your answer as to which is better IELTS or TOEFL in your success. Here are five practical tips to find out which is better IELTS or TOEFL:

Also Read: Documents Required for IELTS Exam: Latest Checklist

Conclusion

Choosing which is better IELTS or TOEFL depends on your destination, purpose, and personal strengths. If you're still asking which is better TOEFL or IELTS, consider where you're applying, how you prefer to take the test, and what score you need. For migration, IELTS often wins; for U.S. universities, TOEFL may be the better fit. Ultimately, the answer to which exam is better TOEFL or IELTS comes down to your goals. Still unsure which is better to take IELTS or TOEFL? Review your options, check official requirements, and choose the test that aligns best with your future plans. TerraTern is always available to assist you in IELTS or TOEFL exam.