IELTS or TOEFL: Which English Test Should You Choose for Migration?
If you’re planning to move abroad for work or permanent residency, choosing the right English language test is a crucial first step. Two of the most popular options are IELTS and TOEFL, but when it comes to migration purposes, one of them clearly leads the way.
Let’s explore how they compare and which one is better suited for your migration goals.
Immigration Acceptance: IELTS Leads the Way
One of the key differences between these two tests is which governments accept them for immigration.
- IELTS is approved by immigration authorities in Canada, the UK, Australia, and New Zealand.
- TOEFL is not accepted for immigration to Canada or the UK. In Australia, only the TOEFL iBT is accepted—and not for every visa type.
That makes IELTS the safer, more universally accepted option for anyone applying for a visa or permanent residency.
More Ways to Take IELTS
Another reason IELTS is preferred? It gives you options.
- You can take the IELTS test on paper or computer, depending on what you’re more comfortable with.
- TOEFL is available only in computer-based format in most places.
If you’re someone who feels more confident writing on paper, this flexibility can make a big difference.
Test Duration and Structure
When it comes to test length and format, IELTS also tends to be more user-friendly.
- IELTS General Training (used for migration) takes about 165 minutes.
- TOEFL iBT is longer—about 195 minutes.
IELTS also includes a variety of question types like:
- Multiple choice
- Matching headings
- Sentence completion
- Diagram labelling
This can make it feel more engaging and less repetitive than TOEFL’s computer-only format.
Real Conversations vs Talking to a Screen
Perhaps the biggest difference is in the Speaking test:
- IELTS features a face-to-face interview with an examiner who understands different accents and can interact with you naturally.
- In TOEFL, you’re talking into a microphone, in a room with other test takers.
Most people find it easier to have a real conversation than talk to a screen—especially in a noisy room.
Scoring Simplicity
- IELTS scores are given in bands from 0 to 9, rounded to the nearest 0.5 (e.g. 6.75 becomes 7.0).
- TOEFL uses a raw and scaled score system out of 120, which can feel complicated to interpret.
If you’re aiming for clarity in how your test is scored, IELTS keeps it simple.
IELTS vs TOEFL for Migration
| Feature | IELTS | TOEFL iBT |
|---|---|---|
| Accepted by Canada/UK immigration | Yes | No |
| Test formats | Paper-based & Computer-based | Computer-based only |
| Test duration | 165 minutes | 195 minutes |
| Speaking component | Real examiner | Speaking into a microphone |
| Score rounding | Yes (e.g. 6.75 → 7.0) | No |
| Global popularity | 3.5 million+ tests annually | 2.3 million+ tests annually |
The Verdict: IELTS Is the Better Choice for Migration
Whether you’re headed to Canada, Australia, the UK, or New Zealand, IELTS is the most widely accepted English test for immigration. It offers flexibility, a human touch in the speaking section, and simpler scoring—making it a smart and stress-free choice for test takers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Can I use TOEFL for Canadian PR?
No, Canada accepts IELTS and CELPIP only for immigration purposes.
Q2. Which IELTS test should I take for migration?
You’ll need IELTS General Training, not Academic, for most migration applications.
Q3. Is TOEFL accepted for UK visas?
No, TOEFL is not accepted by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).
Q4. Is paper-based IELTS available everywhere?
Most IELTS centres offer both options, but it depends on the location. Always check in advance.
Q5. Which is easier: IELTS or TOEFL?
It depends on your strengths, but many test takers find IELTS more flexible and easier to manage, especially the speaking section.
Planning to migrate?
Book your IELTS General Training test today and take your first step toward living and working abroad with confidence.