IELTS vs TOEFL: Which English Proficiency Test Should You Take?
Choosing between the IELTS vs TOEFL is a crucial first step for any student in Bangladesh aiming for higher education or immigration abroad. Both are globally recognized exams that measure your English proficiency, but their formats, scoring, and acceptance vary significantly. The right choice for you depends on your destination, preferred test style, and comfort level.
At Banglay IELTS, led by Founder Rashed Hossain, we don’t just teach the test; we help you choose the best path forward. Here is a clear, concise comparison to help you decide which exam aligns best with your goals.
Which English Test is More Accepted Globally: IELTS or TOEFL?
The acceptance of IELTS and TOEFL scores is broad, but specific countries and institutions often show a strong preference, which is a key factor for Bangladeshi students planning their future.
Answer: IELTS is globally accepted for both academic admission and immigration purposes in over 140 countries, making it the preferred choice for UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. TOEFL is widely accepted in over 160 countries but is historically favored by universities in the United States (US). Both are accepted by the majority of US institutions.
Key Structural Differences: IELTS vs TOEFL Test Format
Understanding the structure is essential for choosing the test you will perform best in. The differences lie mainly in the Reading, Listening, and especially the Speaking and Writing sections.
How is the IELTS Speaking Test different from TOEFL Speaking?
Answer: The IELTS Speaking test is a face-to-face, interactive interview with a human examiner, which takes place in a private room. In contrast, the TOEFL Speaking section is done by speaking into a microphone and recording your answers on a computer, typically alongside other test-takers.
| Feature | IELTS | TOEFL iBT |
| Test Duration | Approx. 2 hours 45 minutes | Approx. 2 hours |
| Speaking Test | Face-to-face with a human examiner (more natural conversation) | Computer-based recording (more structured and academic) |
| Question Types | Variety (Short answer, gap-fill, matching, multiple choice) | Predominantly multiple choice (especially Reading/Listening) |
| English Accent | Features a wide variety of English accents (UK, US, Australian, etc.) | Primarily focuses on North American (US) accents |
| Test Format | Option for Paper-Based or Computer-Delivered | Almost exclusively computer-based |
IELTS vs TOEFL Score Comparison: What Score Do I Need?
Both exams use different scoring scales. It’s important to know the corresponding score to set a realistic goal.
Answer: IELTS scores are reported on a band scale of 0 to 9, while TOEFL scores are reported on a total scale of 0 to 120. Generally, an IELTS Band 6.5 corresponds to a TOEFL score range of 79–93, and an IELTS Band 7.0 corresponds to a TOEFL score range of 94–101.
| IELTS Band Score | Equivalent TOEFL iBT Score (Range) | Proficiency Level |
| 9.0 | 118–120 | Expert User |
| 7.5 | 102–109 | Good User |
| 7.0 | 94–101 | Good User |
| 6.5 | 79–93 | Competent User (Common minimum for grad school) |
| 6.0 | 60–78 | Competent User |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Bangladeshi Students
Which exam is easier for a student from Bangladesh, IELTS or TOEFL?
Neither test is definitively easier; it depends on your comfort zone. IELTS is often perceived as more natural for conversational speakers due to the human Speaking test and variety of question types. TOEFL may be preferred by those who are comfortable with computer-based tasks, typing, and multiple-choice questions.
If I want to study in Canada or the UK, should I take IELTS or TOEFL?
You should take IELTS. The immigration departments of Canada and the UK do not accept TOEFL for immigration purposes, but they widely accept IELTS General Training and IELTS Academic.
Do I need to be familiar with a British accent for the IELTS exam?
No. The IELTS Listening test features a wide variety of global accents (British, American, Australian, etc.), reflecting the international nature of the English language.
Start Your Success Journey with Banglay IELTS
Choosing the right test is the first step toward securing your dream admission and scholarship. Whether you opt for IELTS vs TOEFL, the personalized teaching, practical strategies, and expert guidance offered by Banglay IELTS is your key to success.
Our Founder, Rashed Hossain, and our team of former international students are committed to providing you with an all-in-one solution: from specialized coaching to higher education consultancy and securing scholarships abroad.
Contact us today to get started.
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Visit: https://banglayielts.com/