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IELTS vs TOEFL: Which One Should You Take?

A Complete Comparison for Pakistani Students in 2026

Introduction

English proficiency tests are required for admission to universities in English-speaking countries and for many scholarships. The two most widely accepted tests are IELTS (International English Language Testing System) and TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language). This guide will help you decide which test suits your situation and goals.

Quick Comparison

Both tests assess the same four skills: Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking. However, their formats, scoring systems, and testing environments differ substantially.

IELTS Academic

  • Duration: 2 hours 45 minutes
  • Format: Paper-based or Computer-based
  • Speaking: Face-to-face with an examiner (11-14 minutes)
  • Score Range: 0-9 bands
  • Test Fee in Pakistan: Approximately PKR 55,000-58,000 (2026)
  • Results: Available in 3-5 days for computer-based, 13 days for paper-based
  • Score Validity: 2 years

TOEFL iBT

  • Duration: Under 2 hours
  • Format: Computer-based only
  • Speaking: Recorded responses to computer prompts
  • Score Range: 0-120 (30 per section)
  • Test Fee in Pakistan: Approximately USD 205 (PKR 57,000-60,000)
  • Results: Available in 4-8 days
  • Score Validity: 2 years

Where Each Test is Preferred

IELTS is Generally Preferred for:

  • United Kingdom universities and scholarships (Chevening, Commonwealth)
  • Australia and New Zealand (also required for immigration)
  • Canada (accepted widely, some programs prefer it)
  • European universities offering English-taught programs

TOEFL is Generally Preferred for:

  • United States universities and scholarships (Fulbright)
  • Some Canadian institutions
  • Programs that specifically request TOEFL

Tip: Most universities accept both tests. Always check your target institution's requirements before registering.

Which Test Suits Your Strengths?

Choose IELTS if you:

  • Prefer speaking directly with a person rather than into a microphone
  • Are comfortable with British English spelling and vocabulary
  • Want the option of taking a paper-based test
  • Prefer shorter reading passages with varied question types
  • Apply primarily to UK, Australian, or European institutions

Choose TOEFL if you:

  • Are comfortable with American English
  • Prefer typing your essays on a computer
  • Feel less nervous speaking to a computer than a person
  • Are familiar with multiple-choice question formats
  • Apply primarily to US institutions

Test Centres in Pakistan

IELTS is administered through the British Council and IDP at centres in major cities including Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, Peshawar, Faisalabad, Multan, and Hyderabad. Test dates are available throughout the year.

TOEFL iBT is conducted at ETS-authorized centres in major cities. Availability may be more limited than IELTS, so book your test date well in advance.

Score Requirements

Most graduate programs require:

  • IELTS: Overall band 6.5-7.5, with minimum 6.0-6.5 in each section
  • TOEFL: Total 80-100+, with section minimums varying by program

Preparation Resources

Free official resources:

  • IELTS: British Council website, IDP practice tests
  • TOEFL: ETS free practice tests, TOEFL Go! app

For Pakistani students, the British Council office libraries in major cities offer free IELTS preparation materials. The US Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) provides TOEFL resources.

Practical Recommendations

  • Check your target universities' requirements first
  • Take a practice test for both IELTS and TOEFL to gauge which format suits you
  • Register at least 2-3 months before your application deadline
  • Allow time to retake the test if needed
  • Request score reports to be sent directly to universities when registering

Important: Some scholarship applications have earlier English test deadlines than university applications. Plan accordingly.

Both IELTS and TOEFL are respected worldwide. Choose the test that matches your strengths and target destinations, then prepare thoroughly. Your English proficiency will serve you well beyond the application process.