TOEIC vs. TOEFL, IELTS

You want to take a test to check your knowledge of the foreign language, but you are confused because of the different tests available. Don’t panic, the thing is that the purpose of you taking the test usually determines the kind of test you would pass. The two fundamental tests that measure your command of a foreign language are the TOEFL, IELTS and the TOEIC.
The tests differ in a number of factors.

Purpose of the Test

IELTS checks the ability of using language for different purposes ( depends on whether you want to study, work or migrate.)

TOEFL determines the level of one’s command of English for the potential further academic study (at some educational institution).

TOEIC evaluates the level of one’s command of English appropriate for the further work in the sphere of business (global workplace).

Reasons to Take the Test

IELTS is used:

- to assess the language ability of candidates who need to study or work where English is used as the language of communication;

- to apply for an entry to university in the UK and other countries;
- to assess the progress achieved after the course completion;
- to measure the effectiveness of the program;

TOEFL is used
- to fulfill language requirements for school/college admission or graduation requirements;
- to apply for an exchange program or scholarship;
- to assess the progress achieved after the course completion;
- to measure the effectiveness of the program;

TOEIC is used
- to help employers decide on whether or not to hire or promote certain employee(s);
- to help employers measure the readiness of the workers to participate in any training conducted in English;
- to evaluate learning progress in corporation’s training courses;
- to measure program effectiveness and the progress made during the course (for English language business-oriented courses/schools/programs).

Who Takes the Test?
IELTS is recognized by universities and employers in many countries, including Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, the UK and the USA. It is also recognized by professional bodies, immigration authorities and other government agencies.
TOEFL is taken by the students who are interested in obtaining scholarships or participating in the exchange programs, foreign students wanting to enter a college or a university abroad (not only in the English-speaking countries), and college/university students who are fulfill certain language requirements.

TOEIC is usually taken by the job applicants and potential employees of the international firms and corporations where the knowledge of the language is a primary requirement; by students or students-to-be of the business, trade and vocational schools, colleges and programs.

Who Uses the Results?
The results of IELTS are accepted by more than 6000 organizations worldwide, including universities, immigration departments, government agencies, professional bodies and multinational companies.
The results of the TOEFL test are important for the colleges and universities who accept foreign students or offer exchange programs, as well as for the students themselves.

The results of the TOEIC test are used by the training, human resources managers, recruiters at some international corporations, employees who apply for a job position in such corporations and different language schools/programs.

Test Levels
In IELTS there is: Multi-level. You get a score between 1 and 9 ( “Non user” to “Expert User”).

In TOEFL there are:

• Pre-TOEFL ITP – high beginning to intermediate
• TOEFL ITP – low intermediate to advanced.

In TOEIC there are

• TOEIC Bridge – high beginning to intermediate
• TOEIC IP – low intermediate to advanced

Characteristics of the Test

TOEFL checks the command of academic and spoken English language. It consists of 140 multiple-choice questions, for which one can receive a score of 310-677 points in total (including 30-68 for listening comprehension, 30-68 for grammar in use, 30-67 for reading comprehension). The test lasts 115 minutes.

TOEIC focuses on the English language, which prevails in the business sphere and global workplace. It consists of 200 multiple-choice questions, which are to be answered in 2 hours. The possible score results vary from 10 to 990 (5-495 for listening comprehension and 5-495 for reading comprehension).
IELTS incorporates the following features: A variety of accents and writing styles have presented in text materials in order to minimize linguistic bias. The speaking module is a key component of IELTS. This is conducted in the form of a one-to-one interview with an examiner. The examiner assesses the candidate as he or she is speaking, but the speaking session is also recorded for monitoring as well as re-marking in case of an appeal against the banding given.

Scores

TOEFL scores are usually ready to be handed in after 3 to 5 days from the test completions (up to 7 days in the US). There is a possibility of urgent score calculation when needed for the extra fee. Scores may come in individual score reports as well as institution score reports and rooster.

TOEIC results can also be turned back in the form of individual score reports, score roosters or even certificates if an additional payment is provided. The scores come in 3 to 5 days and the process of score calculation may be facilitated (on demand with the additional fee provided).

IELTS test report forms are issued to all candidates within 13 days after taking the test. Results will be mailed to the address given on the application form or can be picked up in person after 1pm on the 13th day. No results will be given out over the telephone, by fax or email.