Is TOEFL Easier Than IELTS?

Many English learners preparing for an international English test ask the same question:
Is TOEFL easier than IELTS?

The honest answer is: neither test is objectively easier. The easier test depends on your English level, learning style, and strengths. This article compares TOEFL and IELTS clearly so you can decide which one is easier for you.

Understanding TOEFL and IELTS

Both tests measure your ability to use English in real academic and professional contexts. They assess the same four skills:

• Reading

• Listening

• Speaking

• Writing

However, the test format, accent, question style, and scoring system are different — and this is where “difficulty” changes from person to person.

Why Some Learners Find TOEFL Easier

TOEFL may feel easier if you:

✅ Prefer Computer-Based Tests

TOEFL is fully computer-based. Speaking responses are recorded into a microphone, not spoken to a person. Many learners feel less nervous this way.

✅ Are Comfortable With American English

TOEFL uses American English accents, vocabulary, and spelling throughout the test.

✅ Like Academic Contexts

Most TOEFL texts and listening tasks are university-style lectures and academic discussions.

✅ Prefer Multiple-Choice Questions

TOEFL reading and listening sections rely heavily on multiple-choice questions.

Why Some Learners Find IELTS Easier

IELTS may feel easier if you:

✅ Speak Better Than You Write

The IELTS speaking test is a face-to-face interview with a real examiner, which feels more natural for many learners.

✅ Are Familiar With British English

IELTS includes British, Australian, and international accents.

✅ Prefer Shorter Texts

IELTS reading passages are often shorter and more varied than TOEFL academic texts.

✅ Want Simpler Writing Tasks

IELTS writing tasks can feel more straightforward, especially for general English learners.

TOEFL vs IELTS: Difficulty Comparison

| Feature | TOEFL | IELTS |

| ------------------------------------- | ---------------------------------------- | ----------------------------------------- |

| Test format | Fully computer-based | Paper or computer |

| Speaking | Recorded responses | Live interview |

| Accent | American English | British & international |

| Reading style | Academic & long | Mixed & practical |

| Writing | Integrated tasks | Structured tasks |

| Scoring | 0–120 | Band 0–9 |

Which Test Is Easier for Beginners?

• TOEFL may be easier for learners with strong listening and reading skills.

• IELTS may be easier for learners with strong speaking and real-life communication skills.

If you are at B1–B2 level, IELTS often feels more accessible.
If you are at B2–C1 level, TOEFL may suit you better.

So, Is TOEFL Easier Than IELTS?

🔹 There is no universal answer
🔹 TOEFL is easier for students who like computers and academic English
🔹 IELTS is easier for students who prefer human interaction and practical English

The “easier” test is the one that matches how you think, learn, and communicate.

How to Prepare for Either Test

No matter which exam you choose, success depends on strong English foundations:

• Grammar accuracy

• Academic vocabulary

• Listening comprehension

• Speaking confidence

Before focusing on exam strategies, build your core English skills with a structured course.

👉 You can start with a free English foundation course here:
https://tutorspeak.com/free-english-course

Final Thoughts

Instead of asking “Which test is easier?”, ask:
“Which test suits me better?”

Choose wisely, prepare consistently, and either TOEFL or IELTS can become your success story 🎯