IELTS vs TOEFL: Choosing the Right English Test for your Masters

The IELTS and TOEFL are both widely accepted English language proficiency tests for postgraduate study, but they differ in format and regional preference. IELTS is available as either a paper-based or computer-based exam and includes a face-to-face speaking interview with an examiner. TOEFL is entirely computer-based, including the speaking section, which is recorded. IELTS is scored on a 0–9 band scale, while TOEFL is scored out of 120. If you’re applying for a Masters in the UK, Ireland, Australia or Canada, IELTS is often preferred. For the USA, TOEFL is typically the default.

If you're an international student applying for a Masters course taught in English, proving your language proficiency is almost always a requirement. Two of the most widely accepted English language tests are the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) and the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language).

Both are recognised by thousands of universities across the globe, but they differ in format, scoring, and suitability depending on where you want to study. In this guide, we'll break down the key differences between IELTS and TOEFL specifically for Masters-level study — and help you decide which test is the better fit for your academic goals.

The IELTS Academic test is designed to assess your readiness for university-level English. It’s accepted by universities in the UK, Ireland, Australia, Canada, and increasingly in the USA.

Key features:

• Available as a paper-based or computer-based test
• Includes a face-to-face speaking interview
• Uses a band scoring system (from 0 to 9)

It's often the preferred choice for UK institutions and is the standard option for students applying for UKVI (UK Visa and Immigration) sponsored degrees.

The TOEFL iBT (Internet-Based Test) is entirely computer-based and designed to evaluate your academic English skills in a university context. It’s the most popular English test for American universities, but it’s also accepted by institutions in Canada, Europe, and Asia.

Key features:

• Completed entirely on a computer
• Speaking section is recorded via microphone
• Scored out of 120 points

If you're applying to a US-based university for your Masters, TOEFL is usually the default option.

The answer depends largely on where you plan to study and how you prefer to be assessed.

• Planning to study in the UK, Ireland or Australia? Go with IELTS Academic — especially if applying for a UK student visa.
• Applying to a US university? TOEFL is often the more natural choice and may even be the default.
• Comfortable speaking face-to-face? IELTS.
• More at ease typing and working on a screen? TOEFL would suit you better.

Always double-check the English language requirements of your chosen university and course — some universities accept both tests, while others may have a strong preference for one over the other.

Choosing between IELTS and TOEFL is about matching the exam format to your strengths and your study destination. If you’re someone who performs better with live interaction, IELTS might feel more natural. Prefer typing over handwriting and don’t mind speaking into a mic? TOEFL could be your ideal pick.

Always check what your chosen universities actually accept — and if they accept both, go with the test that plays to your strengths. Remember, your English test score isn’t just a formality — it can affect your offer, your visa application, and even scholarship eligibility.

Pro tip: Take a free practice test for each to see which format you're more comfortable with before you commit. Good luck!