Planning to study overseas? One of your first hurdles will be proving your English language skills. Two names dominate this space: TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) and IELTS (International English Language Testing System). Both assess your ability to communicate in English, but they differ significantly in format, acceptance, and what universities expect from you.
In 2026, these differences matter more than ever. TOEFL recently introduced major scoring changes, and universities across the UK, USA, and Australia have specific preferences. Choosing the wrong test could delay your application or even affect your admission chances. This guide breaks down everything you need to know to make the right decision.
Understanding TOEFL and IELTS
TOEFL is an American-designed test managed by ETS (Educational Testing Service). It measures how well you can use and understand English in academic settings. Over 13,000 institutions worldwide accept it, with particularly strong recognition in North America.
IELTS, jointly owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge Assessment, comes in two versions: Academic (for university admission) and General Training (for immigration and work). More than 11,500 organizations across 140 countries recognize it, with dominant acceptance in the UK, Australia, and Commonwealth nations.
The key question is not which test is harder, but which one aligns with your destination, learning style, and timeline.
Test Format Comparison
Which Test for UK Universities?
The UK overwhelmingly prefers IELTS. Major institutions like Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial College London, and the London School of Economics have historically favored it. While many now accept both, IELTS remains the safer choice for UK applications.
For visa applications, the UK requires IELTS for UKVI (UK Visas and Immigration), a specific version with enhanced security measures. Regular IELTS Academic scores will not work for your student visa, so verify which version you need before booking.
Minimum requirements for UK universities typically range from 6.0 for undergraduate programs to 7.0 for competitive postgraduate courses. Some departments, particularly in humanities and law, may demand 7.5 or higher.
TOEFL or IELTS for USA?
American universities have traditionally leaned toward TOEFL, though acceptance of both tests is now standard at most institutions. Harvard, MIT, Stanford, and the entire Ivy League accept either, but TOEFL often integrates more smoothly with American admission systems.
The 2026 TOEFL scoring changes align the test with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), using bands 1-6 instead of the previous 0-120 scale. This makes score interpretation clearer for international students, though universities will publish updated minimum requirements throughout 2026.
Typical requirements sit around band 4 (equivalent to previous 60-78 TOEFL or 6.0 IELTS) for undergraduate admission, and band 5 (previous 94-101 TOEFL or 7.0 IELTS) for graduate programs. Top-tier programs in fields like journalism or public policy may require band 5.5 or 6.
English Test Requirements for Australia
Australia strongly favors IELTS, partly because it shares ownership of the test through IDP. The Group of Eight universities (Australian National University, University of Melbourne, University of Sydney, and others) all accept both, but IELTS is more commonly requested for visa processing.
For student visa applications, the Australian Department of Home Affairs requires specific evidence levels. Most courses demand an overall band score of 6.0 with no individual section below 5.5, though nursing, education, and social work programs often require 7.0 overall.
One advantage in Australia is the faster turnaround for computer-based IELTS, with results in just two days. Given tight application deadlines for February and July intakes, this speed can be crucial.
Score Comparison and Requirements
Making Your Decision
Your choice between these tests should depend on three factors: your destination, your comfort with test format, and your timeline.
Choose IELTS if you are applying to UK or Australian institutions, need visa compliance in these countries, prefer face-to-face speaking assessment, or want the flexibility of paper-based testing. The human-graded speaking section often feels more natural to students who perform better in conversations than recorded responses.
Choose TOEFL if you are targeting American universities primarily, prefer entirely computer-based testing, or need extremely fast results (72 hours in 2026). The new CEFR-aligned scoring may also make your results more internationally comparable.
Many students sitting for both tests is neither practical nor necessary. Research your target universities carefully, check their specific requirements, and commit to one test. Both assess the same core skills; your preparation strategy matters more than which test you choose.
FAQs
Can I take both TOEFL and IELTS?
Yes, but it is unnecessary for most students. Both tests evaluate the same language skills, and universities that accept one typically accept the other. Taking both doubles your preparation time and costs. Pick one based on your destination and focus your energy on achieving the best possible score.
Which test is easier?
Neither test is inherently easier; the difficulty depends on your learning style. IELTS may feel more comfortable if you prefer conversational speaking and varied question types. TOEFL suits those who excel at computer-based testing and prefer multiple-choice formats. Practice tests from both can help you identify which format plays to your strengths.
How long are scores valid?
Both tests have scores valid for two years from the test date. Plan your test timing carefully to ensure scores remain valid through your entire application and visa process. If you are applying for fall 2026 admission, take the test no earlier than fall 2024.
What changed in TOEFL scoring for 2026?
Starting January 21, 2026, TOEFL shifted from a 0-120 point scale to a 1-6 band system aligned with CEFR levels. This makes scores more comparable across different language tests globally. Universities will update their minimum requirements to reflect the new scale, so check recent admission pages for current standards.
Get Expert Guidance for Your Test
Overseas Education Lane offers specialized coaching for both TOEFL and IELTS with experienced trainers who understand the nuances of each test. We provide personalized study plans, regular mock tests, and ongoing support to help you reach your desired band or score. Our consultants can also assess your target universities and recommend the most strategic test based on your academic profile.
Contact Overseas Education Lane today for a free consultation and take the first confident step toward your study abroad goals.
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