Scope: IELTS has a wider scope and is used for study abroad, occupational purposes, and immigration, while TOEFL is primarily used for academic purposes. Types: IELTS has two main variations - Academic and General Training, while TOEFL has no major variations. Locations Available: IELTS is available in over 140 countries at around 1,600 locations, while TOEFL has testing centers in more than 165 countries at over 4,500 locations. Popularity: IELTS is estimated to be taken by over 3.5 million candidates annually, while TOEFL is taken by over 2.3 million aspirants. Interaction with Examiner: IELTS includes a face-to-face speaking section with an examiner, while TOEFL is a computer-based exam with recorded speaking responses. Scoring: IELTS is graded on a band system ranging from 1 to 9, while TOEFL is scored out of 120 points. Exam Duration: IELTS takes 2 hours and 45 minutes to complete, while TOEFL iBT lasts for 3 hours. Frequency: TOEFL iBT is scheduled over 60 times a year, while IELTS can be taken up to once a week. Result Declaration: TOEFL scores are available within 6-10 days, while IELTS test results are released within a week (online) or 13 days (offline). Comparing the Nature of IELTS and TOEFL Exams Both IELTS and TOEFL assess the same four areas of English language proficiency: Reading, Listening, Writing, and Speaking. However, there are differences in the approach to assessment and the types of questions asked. IELTS Exam Pattern & Syllabus In the IELTS exam, students are required to pass four sections - Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing. The exam includes tasks such as reading passages and answering questions, listening to audio recordings and answering questions, speaking on various topics, and writing essays. The duration of the exam is 2 hours and 45 minutes. TOEFL Exam Pattern & Syllabus The TOEFL exam also consists of four sections - Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing. Students are tested on their ability to read and understand academic texts, listen to and comprehend lectures and conversations, speak about familiar topics, and write essays. The duration of the exam is 3 hours. IELTS vs. TOEFL: Which Exam is Better for Eldoret Students? Choosing between IELTS and TOEFL depends on several factors. Here are some considerations for Eldoret students: Acceptance by Universities: Check the English proficiency requirements of the universities you are interested in. While both exams are widely accepted, some institutions may have a preference for one over the other. Test Format: Consider your comfort level with the exam format. If you prefer a computer-based exam with recorded speaking responses, TOEFL may be a better choice. If you prefer face-to-face interaction with an examiner, IELTS may be more suitable. Test Center Availability: Check the availability of test centers in Eldoret for both exams. Choose the exam for which the test center is easily accessible and offers convenient test dates. Cost: Compare the costs of both exams in Eldoret and consider your budget. Both exams generally cost around $200-$250, but prices may vary depending on the country. Test Preparation: Explore the availability of test preparation resources for both exams. Look for online courses, practice tests, and study materials that can help you prepare effectively.