How to choose your English language certificate
In order to undertake an undergraduate or postgraduate programme in an English-speaking country, you will need to demonstrate that you have a good level of written and spoken English with a language qualification.
The IELTS and TOEFL are the two English language proficiency tests most widely accepted by higher education institutions in in the UK and North America.
Both tests assess the four main linguistic skills: reading, writing, speaking, and listening, and they are both internationally recognised as valid qualifications to satisfy the English language requirements of universities, academies, and colleges.
The question that you may end up asking yourself is then – which test should I take? No worries – in this article you will find the three magic questions which can help you make your decision.
IELTS vs TOEFL
The IELTS lasts about 2 hours and 45 minutes, and it tests the four main language skills in this order: Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking. It has 9 level bands, and it is accepted by over 10,000 institutions across the world.
The TOEFL is usually 3 hours and a half long and it assesses the four main language skills in this order: Reading, Listening, Speaking and Writing. The score range goes from 0 to 120 and, just like the IELTS test, it is approved by over 10,000 institutions globally.
Now, what should you keep in mind while deciding which is the most appropriate English language qualification for you? Read the following three questions, answer to them and you will find out which is the best option for you.
THE THREE Qs
1. Does the institution give you any advice?
The great majority of institutions will include different language qualifications with which you can prove your level of language proficiency, but if the institution that you are applying to suggest a specific English language proficiency test, simply follow the advice!
2. Which exam gives you the best result?
It is useful to try and do some of the IELTS and TOEFL samples that are available online before deciding which test to take. Once you have the results of the samples, it is easy to know which is the exam form which suits you best.
In fact, each exam has its own characteristics – you just need to find the best option for you. For example, while the IELTS mainly presents open questions, the TOEFL is characterized by multiple-choice answers; moreover, the IELTS is paper-based, while the TOEFL is computer-based; and finally, the IELTS writing requirements are less (the first task of at least 150 words and the second tasks of at least 250 words) than the TOEFL ones (the first task of about 155-250 words and the second task of a minimum of 300 words).
So, try the online tests, check your result, and find out which is the exam which plays your strengths!
3. Which is the easiest language qualification to get?
Especially in these very complicated times, it is important to bear in mind the necessity to combine the best test with the easiest way to get it. In this respect, both IELTS and TOEFL provide different allocated dates in which you can take the exam. Check the scheduled exams dates and just go for the one that works for you!