What is TOEFL and IELTS?


TOEFL

Test of English as a Foreign Language is a Standardized test that evaluates the English Proficiency of people whose native language is not English. TOEFL is a mandatory test to be taken for admission to any course in the USA and Canada. Some universities in the UK and New Zealand also accept the TOEFL score.

TOEFL measures the ability of non-native speakers of English to use and understand North American English as it is spoken, written, and heard in college and universities. In India the test is available in computer based format.

The TOEFL is developed and administered by the US-based "Educational Testing Service" (ETS). For the conduct of the test, ETS has appointed Testing Agencies in Sri Lanka. Registering at least three days in advance is mandatory.

TOEFL test has four sections:
Listening section:
(30 - 50 quetions, Duration: 40 - 60 min)
Listening section measures the ability of the test taker to understand spoken English.
Structure section:
(20 - 25 questions, Duration: 15 - 20 min)
Structure section measures the ability of the test taker to recognize standard written English.
Reading section:
(44 - 60 questions, Duration: 70 - 90 min)
Reading section measures the ability of the test taker to understand short passages that are similar to the formats used in the academic texts.
Writing section:
(1 Essay, Duration: 30 min)
Writing section measures the ability of the test taker to write in English on the given topic.

IELTS

International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is one of the mandatory tests required to be taken for admission in Australian, New Zealand, USA, Canada, UK Colleges/ Universities (at any level). Earlier, TOEFL was also accepted. IELTS is also a must for obtaining the Australian visa.

With effect from 1st March 2002, all the universities in Australia require only IELTS score in place of TOEFL. This test is also an alternative test to TOEFL for admission into UK, Canadian and New Zealand universities.

All candidates have to take the same Listening and Speaking Modules. If you are planning to undertake academic study it is recommended that you sit for the Academic Reading and Writing Modules. If you are planning to undertake non-academic training or apply for immigration to Australia or New Zealand it is recommended that you sit for the General Training Reading and Writing.

The IELTS exam contains four sections:
Listening - 30 Minutes
Reading - 60 Minutes
Writing two essays - 60 Minutes
Speaking - 10 - 15 Minutes