For international students, choosing between IELTS and TOEFL can be confusing. Here's a practical guide.

TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language):

• Computer-based
• American English focused
• Academic context
• Scored 0-120
• Preferred by most US universities
• Integrated tasks (reading + listening + speaking/writing)

IELTS (International English Language Testing System):

• Paper or computer-based
• British English focused
• Academic or General Training versions
• Scored 1-9 (band scores)
• Preferred by UK, Australian, and Canadian universities
• Face-to-face speaking test with an examiner

Choose TOEFL if:

• You're primarily applying to US schools
• You're comfortable with computer-based testing
• You prefer typing your essays
• You're good at integrated tasks

Choose IELTS if:

• You're applying to UK/Australian/Canadian schools
• You prefer speaking to a real person (not a computer)
• You're more comfortable with British English
• You want the option of a paper-based test

Important: Most schools accept both tests. Check each school's specific requirements and minimum scores.

Score Equivalents (approximate):

• TOEFL 100 ≈ IELTS 7.0
• TOEFL 110 ≈ IELTS 7.5-8.0
• TOEFL 90 ≈ IELTS 6.5

Take a practice test for both and see which format suits you better.