Is EF SET Equivalent to IELTS? | Comprehensive Comparison
Is EF SET equivalent to IELTS? Discover the key differences, recognition, and when to choose each English proficiency test. Learn more and get your free EF SET certificate.
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Is EF SET Equivalent to IELTS? A Complete Comparison Guide
In today’s globalized world, having an English language certificate is often a requirement for education, immigration, or employment. Two popular English proficiency tests are the EF SET (EF Standard English Test) and IELTS (International English Language Testing System). But is EF SET truly equivalent to IELTS? Let’s break it down.
What Is EF SET?
The EF SET is a free online English test developed by Education First (EF). It aligns with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), ranging from A1 (Beginner) to C2 (Proficient).
It is free and accessible to everyone.
The test takes about 50 minutes.
It provides a certificate aligned with CEFR levels.
The certificate is downloadable and easy to share.
If you want to try a free EF SET-aligned English course with a certificate, check this out:
👉 https://tutorspeak.com/free-english-course
What Is IELTS?
IELTS is a globally recognized and standardized English test accepted by more than 11,000 institutions worldwide, including universities, immigration authorities, and employers.
IELTS offers two main modules:
Academic IELTS for higher education applications.
General Training IELTS for work or migration purposes.
It tests four language skills — Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking — and is usually taken in official test centers under supervision.
Is EF SET Equivalent to IELTS?
Recognition
IELTS is widely accepted globally by governments, universities, and employers. EF SET, on the other hand, is mainly used for self-assessment and recognized by fewer institutions and online platforms with less formal requirements.
Verdict: IELTS holds much stronger global recognition than EF SET.
Test Format
IELTS includes a live speaking test, essay writing, and is administered in person or under supervised conditions. EF SET is a fully automated online test with multiple-choice questions and no live speaking component.
Verdict: IELTS is more comprehensive and rigorous.
CEFR Alignment
Both EF SET and IELTS map their results to CEFR levels, providing a standardized way to understand language proficiency. However, IELTS scores are widely trusted and externally verified, while EF SET certificates mainly serve informal and personal use.
When Should You Choose EF SET?
If you want a free English certificate to showcase your level.
If you are applying for non-academic or online jobs with flexible language requirements.
If you want to self-assess your English skills conveniently.
If you want a certificate to add to your LinkedIn profile or resume.
Start your free English course and get a certificate here:
🔗 https://tutorspeak.com/free-english-course
When Should You Choose IELTS?
When applying to universities abroad.
When immigrating to English-speaking countries.
When needing an English certificate for professional licenses or official employment.
When you require a widely accepted and official English credential.
Pros and Cons of EF SET
Pros:
Completely free and accessible.
Results aligned with CEFR levels.
Fast and easy to take online.
Cons:
Not widely accepted for official purposes.
No live speaking or writing assessment.
Limited use in formal academic or immigration settings.
Final Thoughts
EF SET is an excellent free tool for English learners to evaluate their level and obtain a certificate for informal use. However, it is not equivalent to IELTS in terms of recognition, test format, and acceptance by institutions worldwide.
For formal education, immigration, or professional purposes, IELTS remains the gold standard. Use EF SET as a stepping stone, but plan to take IELTS if you need an internationally recognized certificate.
