IELTS vs TOEFL: Which Scholarship Test Score You Need
IELTS vs TOEFL: Which Scholarship Test Score You Need
You need an English proficiency test. But which one?
IELTS and TOEFL are both accepted. But they're different tests, with different costs, difficulty levels, and acceptance rates.
Choosing the wrong one can cost you time and money. In this guide, I'll help you choose wisely.
IELTS vs TOEFL: Quick Comparison
| Factor | IELTS | TOEFL |
|---|---|---|
| Format | Written + speaking (face-to-face) | Computer-based |
| Cost | $215-300 | $160-210 |
| Score Scale | 0-9 bands | 0-120 points |
| Prep Time | 8-12 weeks | 8-12 weeks |
| Validity | 2 years | 2 years |
| Easier for | Non-native speakers | Comfortable with computers |
Which Test Should You Take?
Choose IELTS if:
✅ You prefer speaking practice with a human ✅ You learned British English ✅ You're applying to UK/Australian universities ✅ You have strong speaking skills ✅ You want slightly lower barrier to entry
Choose TOEFL if:
✅ You're comfortable with computers ✅ You learned American English ✅ You're applying to US universities ✅ You have strong reading/writing skills ✅ Test centers are closer to you
Scholarship Requirements
Most scholarships accept BOTH. Common minimums:
- Chevening: IELTS 6.5+ OR TOEFL 92+
- DAAD: IELTS 6.0+ OR TOEFL 80+
- Fulbright: IELTS 6.5+ OR TOEFL 95+
Choose the test where you'll score highest. That test is YOUR test. 📝
