Studying abroad is a dream of many. Thousands of students between the age of 18 and 35 apply each year for universities abroad and they work hard for this. There are multiple steps and each university and country has its own system for international scholars coming to their shores. However, preparing for IELTS and TOEFL is one of the common steps that every student has to take to start their study abroad journey. 

But the question arises, what are IELTS, TOEFL exams and why are they important and from where students can prepare for them?

If you have the same questions as I have, then you have reached the right place. In this blog we will talk about the importance of IELTS and TOEFL in your study abroad journey, how you can prepare for them and what are the official sites and ways you can get maximum results. 

What are IELTS and TOEFL?

When someone decides to go for a study abroad option, the first thing they search is always what is IELTS and TOEFL. Thousands of blogs and sites explain well what they are and why you would need them. However, we have also made a comprehensive guide on what these tests are and what their alternatives are, you can read this log here “TOEFL and IELTS Alternatives: Which Test is Right for You? Check out this blog and get the information that you need. 

This blog will also provide you with information on what other tests are out there that you can take as an alternative to IELTS and TOEFL. However, if you have already decided to take these two tests specifically, then here is a detailed guide

Why is IELTS and TOEFL important?

IELTS and TOEFL draw their importance from the fact that almost all English-speaking countries prefer these two tests over all others when it comes to showing English proficiency. 

Almost every university in the USA, UK, Canada and Australia prefers and demands English proficiency certificates and prefers these two tests. So having them is a clear advantage and is the most important first step in that direction. 

From where can you prepare for these two tests?

As IELTS and TOEFL are official English proficiency certificates, there are organisations such as the British Council, and Education Testing Service for such tests. 

These organisations are responsible for taking exams and grading them as per their performance. Any news and updates related to tests can be obtained from these sites. 

However, there are many private organisations and academies such as Uni-guide that provide professional IELTS and TOEFL preparation services. The preparation materials are often provided with coaching to ace exams. 

There are also online options such as Youtube where there are many channels that provide free-of-cost services and coaching through pre-recorded videos. These are self-paced courses that require planning and time management. 

Which one is better? IELTS or TOEFL?

Many students ask which test they should opt for when applying for international study abroad scholarships or opportunities. Should they go for IELTS or TOEFL? 

The answer to this question depends on the type of degree that you are pursuing and the university that you want to apply to. IELTS and TOEFL almost always serve as alternate versions of each other, and institutions accept one in place of the other.

Furthermore, there is an assumption that STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields require TOEFL, while IELTS is necessary for all degrees.

Bonus Tip:

Always ask your study abroad consultant to inform you about the exact tests you need to take and the bands or scores needed for your university of choice.