Points to take into consideration:
US vs BRITISH ENGLISH
TOEFL is conducted in US English. So, if you’re more familiar with British English, IELTS may be a better choice for you.
Your choice may also depend on your future plans. While both academic tests are accepted by universities around the world, TOEFL is more often requested when applying for a place at a North American university. On the other hand, (the general, non-academic) IELTS is requested when applying for a visa in Australia.
TOO SHY TO TALK
If you’re not comfortable with talking to strangers, you might want to try TOEFL as in this exam, you only need to speak into a microphone.
Choose IELTS if you enjoy real-life interaction and would prefer to have a chat with the examiner. While having to talk to him or her may seem intimidating to you, I think this type of testing will always reflect your abilities more accurately. Remember that communication is a two-way skill and this way you get a chance to impress the examiner with your real-time answers.
TASKS
The questions is: Do you like multiple choice questions? If you do, go for the TOEFL.
If you are good at other types as well, you might want to try IELTS. This exam has a wider range of question types: multiple choice, gap fill, word formation, matching exercises, true/false etc.
SOME MORE THINGS TO CONSIDER
If you’re not used to handwriting, you might prefer the TOEFL. In this is exam, you’re asked to type your essays. If, on the other hand, you can’t type very fast, you may feel more comfortable taking the IELTS where you are required to handwrite your essays.
How big is your attention span? How long can you focus? The IELTS is much shorter than the TOEFL: it takes less than three hours. TOEFL takes about four hours. So, if you lose focus easily, you know which one to choose!
PREPARATION
Please keep in mind, that most materials you find in our posts and the recommended links are perfectly suitable to prepare for both exams. Your goal is to expand your vocabulary and deepen your understanding of grammar. You know, you can do so anytime by surfing our blog!
TIPS FOR TOEFL
See this posts for extra tips and links, including tips on learning Academic Vocabulary!
TOEFL Exam Preparation Tips and Course
TOEFL Word List with Meaning!
Essential Academic Writing Examples and Phrases!
TIPS FOR IELTS
See this extensive list of general and academic vocabulary with sentence examples.
English Vocabulary for IELTS Speaking Test
How do I prepare for IELTS?
8 English Learning Websites You Need to Become Proficient
Practise multiple choice questions.
And very importantly, visit the official site.
DON’T FORGET TO HAVE FUN
This is my last tip. It will make learning much easier. Visit our Facebook page for a chat or share your tips with us here in the comment area.
