TOEFL, IELTS and TOEIC: understanding the differences between these English tests

The ability to understand English has become an indispensable skill for students and professionals wishing to study, immigrate or work abroad. To assess their English skills, many candidates take standardized English tests, such as the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) and the Test of English for International Communication (TOEIC). Recognized worldwide, they are used by higher education establishments, companies and public bodies to assess the English language skills of future applicants. We take a closer look at each of these tests, the different stages of the test, the required scores, preparation strategies to help candidates pass the exam successfully, and the differences between these three most commonly used tests.

How to take the IELTS test without paying the fees: free resources and financial aid programs

Main differences between TOFEL and EILTES and TOEIC

The three English language tests TOEFL, IELTS and TOEIC have important differences in their content, format and use. Here are some of the main differences between these tests:

1. Content and format TOEFL focuses on academic English, with sections assessing listening, reading, speaking and writing. IELTS is similar to TOEFL, but also assesses the ability to communicate in English in everyday situations. TOEIC, on the other hand, focuses on English used in international business and professional contexts, with sections to assess listening and reading comprehension.
2. Use and recognition TOEFL and IELTS scores are generally used for admission to university programs, while TOEIC is often used. for employment and professional certification. TOEFL and IELTS scores are generally recognized worldwide, while TOEIC recognition may vary from country to country.
3. Score and rating TOEFL and IELTS are scored on a scale of 0 to 120 and 0 to 9 respectively, while TOEIC is scored on a scale of 10 to 990. TOEFL and IELTS scores are used to determine a candidate's level of English proficiency, while TOEIC scores are used to determine the ability to communicate in English in a professional context.

TOEFL: the test for studying at an English-speaking university

The TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is often used to assess the English language skills of international students wishing to study at English-speaking universities. It is administered by the ETS (Educational Testing Service) organization and is usually taken online. The test is divided into four sections: reading, listening, writing and speaking. TOEFL takes around 4 hours to complete.

TOEFL is designed to measure students' ability to understand and communicate in an academic context. Test questions are based on academic texts and lectures, and speaking and writing skills are also assessed. TOEFL is often used as an admission criterion at English-speaking universities, and is generally required for undergraduate and postgraduate programs.

IELTS: the academic and general test

IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is another test used to assess the English proficiency of non-native English speakers. It is jointly administered by the British Council, IDP Education and Cambridge Assessment English. Like TOEFL, there are two types of IELTS test: academic and general.

The academic test is generally used by international students wishing to study at an English-speaking university, as is the TOEFL. The general test is used by those looking to work or immigrate to an English-speaking country. IELTS is also divided into four sections: reading, listening, writing and speaking. The test lasts around 2 hours and 45 minutes.

TOEIC: the test for professionals

The TOEIC (Test of English for International Communication) is a test used to assess the English language skills of people working in professional contexts. It is administered by the ETS organization and is divided into two sections: listening comprehension and reading comprehension. The test is usually administered as a paper-and-pencil test, and lasts around 2 hours.

TOEIC is often used by employers to assess the English language skills of employees or job applicants. Test questions focus on common work situations, such as business correspondence, meetings and presentations. Listening and reading skills are assessed, but speaking and writing are not.

TOEIC is designed to assess the ability of candidates to communicate in English in a professional context. TOEIC scores are often used to assess employees' English proficiency, and to make promotion and assignment decisions.

The TOEFL test in detail

The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is a standardized English language test that is widely used to assess the English proficiency of non-native English speakers. Here is some detailed information about the TOEFL test:

Test format TOEFL is administered in two different formats: TOEFL iBT and TOEFL ITP. The TOEFL iBT (Internet-Based Test) is administered online and is the most commonly used format. The TOEFL ITP (Institutional Testing Program) is administered on paper and pencil, and is generally used for classroom exams or placement tests.

Test content The TOEFL iBT consists of four sections: listening, reading, writing and speaking. The listening comprehension section assesses candidates' ability to understand spoken English in a variety of contexts, including conversations, lectures and announcements. The reading comprehension section assesses candidates' ability to understand written English in a variety of contexts, including articles, reports and announcements. The writing section assesses candidates' ability to write in English on a given topic. The speaking section assesses candidates' ability to speak in English on a range of topics.

Test duration TOEFL iBT takes around 4 hours and 30 minutes, while TOEFL ITP takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes.

Evaluation and rating TOEFL is scored on a scale from 0 to 120 for TOEFL iBT, and on a scale from 310 to 677 for TOEFL ITP. The scores for each section are then combined to give an overall score. Scores are valid for 2 years from the date of the test.

Test administration TOEFL iBT is administered at approved test centers around the world. Candidates can choose a test date and test center at their convenience. TOEFL ITP is administered in educational institutions that have agreements with ETS (the organization that administers TOEFL).

Using the test TOEFL is used for admission to university programs, professional certification, visa applications, employment and other situations where proficiency in English is required.

TOEFL test costs varies according to several factors, such as location, type of test and optional extra charges. In general, the cost can vary between 180 and 300 US dollars. The exact cost of the test depends on the location and type of test chosen. For example, the TOEFL iBT (Internet-based test) is the most common type of test and can cost between 180 and 300 US dollars. However, the Paper-delivered TOEFL test is less expensive, costing between 160 and 250 US dollars. Candidates can register online on the official ETS website and select a test center.

The IELTS test in detail

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a standardized English language test that is widely used to assess the English proficiency of non-native English speakers. Here is some detailed information about the IELTS test:

Test format The IELTS test is administered in two different formats: IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training. IELTS Academic is generally used for admission to university and vocational programs, while IELTS General Training is generally used for employment, immigration and other situations where English proficiency is required.

Test content The IELTS test consists of four sections: listening, reading, writing and speaking. The listening section assesses candidates' ability to understand spoken English in a variety of contexts, including conversations, lectures and announcements. The reading comprehension section assesses candidates' ability to understand written English in a variety of contexts, including articles, reports and announcements. The writing section assesses candidates' ability to write in English on a given topic. The speaking section assesses candidates' ability to speak in English on a range of topics.

Test duration : The IELTS test takes about 2 hours and 45 minutes.

Evaluation and rating The IELTS test is graded on a scale of 0 to 9 for each section. The scores for each section are then combined to give an overall score. Scores are valid for 2 years from the date of the test.

Test administration The IELTS test is administered at approved test centers around the world. Candidates can choose a test date and test center at their convenience.

Using the test The IELTS test is used for admission to university programs, professional certification, visa applications, employment and other situations where proficiency in English is required.

Exact cost of the IELTS test depends on the location and type of test chosen. Typically, the IELTS Academic test and the IELTS General Training test can cost between US$215 and US$250. Candidates may pay additional fees for services such as additional score reports, test cancellation or postponement, or access to additional preparation resources.

The TOEIC test in detail

The Test of English for International Communication (TOEIC) is a standardized English language test that is widely used to assess people's English proficiency in international business and professional contexts. Here is some detailed information about the TOEIC test:

Test format The TOEIC test consists of two sections: listening and reading. The listening comprehension section assesses candidates' ability to understand spoken English in different contexts, including conversations, lectures, announcements and telephone messages. The reading comprehension section assesses candidates' ability to understand written English in a variety of contexts, including e-mails, reports and announcements.

Test content The TOEIC test focuses on English used in international business and professional contexts. Test topics include business, finance, international trade, marketing, human resources and other subjects relevant to the business world.

Test duration The TOEIC test takes about 2 hours.

Evaluation and rating The TOEIC test is scored on a scale from 10 to 990. The scores for each section are then combined to give an overall score.

Test administration The TOEIC test is administered at approved test centers around the world. Candidates can choose a test date and test center at their convenience.

Using the test The TOEIC test is used for employment, professional certification, career advancement and other situations where proficiency in English is required in an international business and professional context.

The TOEIC Listening and Reading test (oral and written comprehension) is available for cost between US$85 and US$160. Employers may also pay for their employees' test fees, and candidates may pay additional fees for services such as sending additional score reports, cancelling or rescheduling the test, or accessing additional preparation resources.

TOEFL, IELTS and TOEIC test-taking tips

Here are some strategies candidates can use to improve their chances of success (a more detailed article with free online resources for each test is available on the site):

• Prepare well: Start preparing several weeks or months in advance. Use online resources, preparation courses and practice exams to familiarize yourself with the format and content of each test.
• Familiarize yourself with the test format: Understand the sections of the test, the types of questions and the time allowed for each section. This will help you manage your time effectively during the test.
• Improve your English skills: In addition to specific test preparation, practice your English as much as possible. Read articles, listen to podcasts and watch films in English to improve your understanding of the language.
• Listen carefully to the instructions: Make sure you understand the instructions before starting each section of the test. Errors can often be avoided by listening carefully to the instructions.
• Manage your time efficiently: Use the time allotted for each section of the test efficiently. If you have difficulty with a question, move on to the next one and come back to it later if you have time.
• Stay calm and confident: Stay calm and confident during the exam. Don't let difficult questions discourage you, and keep focused on your goal.

How to take these tests for free

It is possible to take the TOEFL, IELTS and TOEIC tests free of charge in certain circumstances, although this is relatively rare. Here are just a few of the ways you can take these tests for free:

• Some universities and institutions offer free preparation courses for TOEFL, IELTS or TOEIC, which often include a practice or mock test. However, these courses are generally reserved for registered students or staff of the institution.
• Some companies or organizations may offer free TOEIC tests to their employees, in particular to assess their English proficiency in a professional context.
• Some scholarships for university or post-graduate studies may include free TOEFL or IELTS registration fees.
• In some countries, government programs or educational initiatives may offer free or discounted TOEFL, IELTS or TOEIC tests for students or professionals.

These opportunities are generally limited, and most candidates have to pay a registration fee to take the tests. Candidates can find information on free or discounted testing opportunities on the official websites of each test or by contacting authorized test centers. A detailed article on each test, with details of how to take the test free of charge, is available on the website.