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IELTS vs TOEFL: Which Exam to Choose for Admission Abroad in 2026?

19.09.2025 08:19

Planning to study in the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, or the UAE?

Any university abroad will require you to prove your English proficiency. The two most popular exams are IELTS (International English Language Testing System) and TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language).

What are the differences between them? Which one — IELTS or TOEFL — is better to take for admission in 2026? In this article, we compare the formats, scoring systems, and costs of both tests, explore the scores required by top universities, and see which exam is preferred in different countries.

What is IELTS?

IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is one of the most widely recognized English language exams for studying and working abroad.

Where it is accepted: IELTS is particularly valued in the UK, Australia, Canada, the UAE, and European countries, as it is highly adapted to the academic and immigration requirements of these regions.

Structure: The exam evaluates four skills — Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. The speaking section is conducted as a face-to-face interview with an examiner, which makes IELTS closely simulate real-life communication in English.

Scoring: 0 to 9 bands, with 0.5 increments. A score of 6.5 is often the minimum required for admission to reputable universities.

Recognition: According to the British Council, IELTS is currently recognized by over 12,500 organizations in more than 140 countries worldwide.

Format: IELTS is available in both paper-based and computer-delivered formats.

Cost (2025):

USA: around $250–$270
UK: around £195–£210
Canada: around CA$340
Australia: around AUD 390
UAE: around AED 1,050

What is TOEFL?

TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is an international English language exam administered by the American organization ETS (Educational Testing Service).

Where it is accepted: TOEFL is particularly popular in the USA and Canada, but it is also recognized by many universities in Europe, Asia, and Australia.

Structure and scoring: The exam consists of four sections: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing. Each section is scored from 0 to 30, with a total score ranging from 0 to 120.

Changes in scoring system: Starting January 2026, ETS will introduce a new six-point scoring scale for TOEFL, more closely aligned with the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages). During the transition period (until 2028), score reports will include both the old scale (0–120) and the new scale (1–6) to help universities and applicants navigate the results.

Format: TOEFL iBT (internet-based test) is the main format and is used almost universally.

Recognition: TOEFL is accepted by more than 13,000 higher education institutions and organizations in over 160 countries worldwide.

Cost (2025):

USA: $205
UK: $235
Canada: $245
Australia: $245
UAE: $245

IELTS vs TOEFL — Key Differences in 2026

Format: IELTS is available in paper-based and computer-delivered formats, while TOEFL is mostly online.
Speaking section: IELTS features a live interview (even in the computer-delivered test), whereas TOEFL uses recorded responses.
Scoring: IELTS 0–9, TOEFL 0–120 (from 2026 also 1–6).
Cost: IELTS ranges from $250–$270 in the USA, £195–£210 in the UK, CA$340 in Canada, AUD 390 in Australia, AED 1,050 in the UAE. TOEFL iBT costs $205–$245 depending on the country.
Availability: IELTS test centers are available in over 140 countries, TOEFL in 200+ countries and territories.

Minimum IELTS & TOEFL Scores Required by Top Universities (2026)

Harvard University (USA): IELTS 6.5+, TOEFL 80+
University of Oxford (UK): IELTS 7.5+, TOEFL 110+
University of Toronto (Canada): IELTS 6.5+, TOEFL 100+
University of Sydney (Australia): IELTS 6.5+, TOEFL 79+
NYU Abu Dhabi (UAE): IELTS 6.5+, TOEFL 90+

Which Exam Should You Choose in 2026?

If your goal is to study in the USA or Canada, TOEFL is usually more convenient.
For admission to the UK, Europe, Australia, or the UAE, IELTS is generally preferred.
However, in 2026, almost all top universities accept both certificates, so the choice should be based on the exam format you are most comfortable with.

Final Tips for Success

Start preparing at least 3–4 months before your exam date.
Use official practice tests and materials — they are the best way to understand the exam format.
Make a calendar of exam dates and university application deadlines.
Practice under realistic conditions: set a timer, simulate background noise, and limit resources.
If in doubt, take a mock test or consult an expert.

Still Unsure Which Exam to Take?

Consultants at ED-EX.com can help you check university requirements and create a personalized admission strategy.

Get individual guidance from our experts by submitting a request:

in your personal account,
on the page of your chosen university,
or by emailing us at support@ed-ex.com.

Read useful guides about applying abroad

The ED-EX.com team have compiled relevant and understandable guides for students so that you can focus on your preparation rather than wasting time searching.

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