TOEFL iBT vs TOEFL Essentials: Which is Better?
TOEFL
When it comes to proving your English language proficiency, especially for academic purposes, the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) offers two main options: TOEFL iBT and TOEFL Essentials. Both tests serve different needs and cater to various levels of English proficiency. This article will explore the differences between these two tests, helping you decide which one is better suited for your goals.
The TOEFL iBT is the traditional test that many universities around the world accept. It checks your ability to use English in an academic setting through four sections: reading, listening, speaking, and writing. This test is best for students who want to apply for higher education programs where a thorough assessment of their English skills is needed.
On the other hand, the TOEFL Essentials test is newer and is meant for those who may not need a full evaluation of their academic English. It focuses on basic language skills that are useful in everyday life and some academic situations. This test is shorter and easier, making it suitable for beginners and intermediate learners. The structure of TOEFL Essentials is also shorter, taking about 1.5 hours compared to the 3-hour duration of TOEFL iBT, making it less demanding overall. In this article, we will look at the main differences between TOEFL iBT and TOEFL Essentials, including how they are structured, how they are scored, where they are accepted, and which one might be better for you.
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| Benefits of the TOEFL iBT Special Home Edition Test during COVID -19 |
TOEFL iBT Testing Continues Seamlessly Despite COVID-19 Pandemic |
What is TOEFL iBT?
The TOEFL iBT Test is a popular English proficiency test that measures a student’s ability in listening, reading, speaking and writing skills in the classroom. The TOEFL exam helps millions of students proven they have what it takes to succeed in an English-speaking academic environment. English language scores (TOEFL iBT, IELTS and PTE) are a mandatory requirement for admission to English-speaking countries abroad for Indian students.
- Purpose: Primarily for students applying to universities or colleges in English-speaking countries.
- Difficulty Level: Intermediate to advanced.
- Test Format: Comprehensive assessment of academic English skills.
What is TOEFL Essentials Test?
The TOEFL Essentials Test is a high-quality exam launched in the face of the pandemic for candidates looking to appear for the TOEFL test from the safety of their homes. The TOEFL Essentials Test like the TOEFL iBT test measures the test taker’s four core language skills: listening, reading, writing and speaking. However, the TOEFL Essentials Test has a shorter test duration and engages students with tasks related to both academic situations and everyday life.
- Purpose: Suitable for students looking to assess their basic English skills or for those applying for jobs or other non-academic purposes.
- Difficulty Level: Beginner to intermediate.
- Test Format: Shorter and more focused on essential language skills.
TOEFL iBT vs TOEFL Essentials
While the TOEFL iBT test and the TOEFL Essentials test are similar at a surface level, however, it is only when you dig deeper that you will understand the stark difference between the two. In his section, we will be discussing the difference between TOEFL iBT and TOEFL Essentials Test.
| Factors |
TOEFL iBT Test |
TOEFL Essentials Test |
|---|---|---|
| Delivery |
Students can register for the TOEFL iBT from a test centre, or opt to take it at home with the TOEFL iBT Home Edition and the recently started TOEFL Test on the Paper format of the test. |
Students looking to register for the TOEFL Essentials Test are required to take the TOEFL exam from home or from a test conducive environment, using the same platform, technology, and security as the TOEFL iBT Home Edition. |
| TOEFL Test Pattern |
The TOEFL iBT exam pattern has four (4) sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking |
The TOEFL Essentials Test pattern has four (4) scored sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking and a 5-minute personal video statement (not scored). |
| Duration of the test |
The total duration of the TOEFL iBT test is 3 hours. |
The total duration of the TOEFL Essentials Test is 1.5 hours. |
| What does the test measure? |
The TOEFL iBT test measures communication language ability in an academic context. |
The TOEFL Essentials Test measures the foundational elements of English proficiency in both academic and non-academic contexts. |
| Content |
The TOEFL iBT test evaluates 100% academic English. |
The TOEFL iBT test evaluates 50% academic English and 50% general English. |
| Exam Fee |
The TOEFL iBT exam fee costs INR 16,900. |
The TOEFL Essentials Test costs US$120 (Around INR 10,000) |
| Scoring |
The TOEFL iBT test is scored in the range of 0 – 30 for each section and a total TOEFL iBT score of 0 – 120. |
The TOEFL Essentials test is scored in the range of 1 – 12 for each section and an overall (total) TOEFL score between 1- 12 |
| Score Review |
Candidates appearing for the TOEFL iBT test can request a TOEFL score review of their Writing and/or Speaking sections up to 30 days after having taken the test. |
Candidates appearing for the TOEFL Essentials Test do not have the option to request score rechecking. |
| Score Reporting |
Candidates registering for the TOEFL iBT test can select up to four free official TOEFL score reports to be sent to the institutions. Additional score reports would be sent at a price of US $20 for each report. |
Candidates registering for the TOEFL Essentials Test can select up to 20 free official TOEFL score reports to be sent to the institutions. |
TOEFL iBT vs TOEFL Essentials in 2024: Which is better?
Now coming to our question. While the acceptance of the TOEFL Essentials test is increasing rapidly, however, it is a long way from reaching the stature of the original TOEFL iBT test. Candidates are required to check the admission requirements of the university/visa before registering for their preferred test. Personally, I would suggest students opt for the TOEFL iBT test with test centres resuming in full swing. Currently, the TOEFL iBT scores are accepted by over 11,500 universities and counting.
Candidates can get in touch with us in the comments below. And for assistance with university admissions get in touch with our Shiksha Study Abroad Counsellors.
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TOEFL iBT vs TOEFL Essentials FAQs
Q. Is TOEFL Essentials easier than TOEFL iBT?
A. Yes, TOEFL Essentials is generally considered easier than TOEFL iBT. TOEFL Essentials is designed for beginners and intermediate learners, focusing on essential English skills like vocabulary and grammar. In contrast, TOEFL iBT assesses more advanced academic English skills across four sections: reading, listening, speaking, and writing.
Q. What is TOEFL iBT and Essentials?
A. TOEFL iBT (Internet-Based Test) is a widely recognized English proficiency test that measures a person's ability to use and understand academic English. It consists of four sections—reading, listening, speaking, and writing—and is accepted by over 11,500 universities in more than 160 countries.
On the other hand, TOEFL Essentials, introduced more recently, measures essential English language skills at a basic level. It includes two main sections—reading and listening—and an optional speaking section. This test is intended for those who may not need a comprehensive assessment of their English skills but still want to demonstrate their proficiency.
Q. Which TOEFL type is best?
A.The best type of TOEFL test depends on your specific needs and goals. If you are planning to apply to universities or colleges that require a thorough understanding of academic English, TOEFL iBT is the better option due to its comprehensive assessment and wider acceptance. However, if you are looking for a quicker assessment of your basic English skills or if you are at a beginner or intermediate level, TOEFL Essentials may be more suitable for you.
Q. Is TOEFL Essentials accepted?
A. TOEFL Essentials is accepted by some institutions and programs, but its acceptance is not as widespread as that of TOEFL iBT.
Q: Â Which is better among TOEFL and IELTS?
Q: Â How to prepare for UK 10th board exam 2025?
Those who are preparing for the UK Class 10 exam 2025 are recommended to follow the tips below.
- Know the exam pattern
- Make a proper time table as per the syllabus
- Solve previous year question papers
- Make short notes of important formulas and theorems
- Revise regularly
- Figure out weaker areas and learn them well
With proper planning and hard work, students can easily clear the UK 10th board exam.
Q: Â What rank is Wolverhampton University in UK?
The University of Wolverhampton is one of the best universities in the United Kingdom. The university is consistently ranked among the best universities nationally and globally. For nearly 200 years, the University of Wolverhampton has been consistently providing a quality of education to students and producing highly skilled graduates. The national rankings of the University of Wolverhampton are given below:
| Ranking Body | Ranking |
|---|---|
| The Guardian University Guide 2024 | #101 |
| The Complete University Guide 2024 | #117 |
Q: Â How can I get admission in the University of Manchester?
The application process at the University of Manchester may vary depending on the course and level of study. However, here is the application process for UG and PG courses:
The Undergraduate Application Process:
Step 1: You can apply through the UCAS common application portal.
Step 2: Go to the website and select the course you are interested in.
Step 3: Ensure you meet the Entry requirements (Academic qualifications, English proficiency, etc.
Step 4: Once you decide on the course, submit documents such as SOP, Transcripts and personal statements.
Check out: tips to improve your SOP.
Step 5: You can track the application's progress through your given credentials by UCAS.
Step 6: Once the applicant submits the application to UCAS, it forwards to the University, and the admission teams carefully analyse the application document.
Step 7: The university will send you an offer letter once selected. Hence keep checking your UCAS portal for your application status.
The Postgraduate application process:
Step 1: Select the postgraduate course you are interested in from the University of Manchester.\
Step 2: Ensure you meet the entry requirements for the chosen program, as they vary depending on the course.
Step 3: Complete the online application by providing your personal information.
Step 4: Upload the required documents, such as Academic transcripts and proof of English language proficiency ( TOEFL/ IELTS). experience in your fields and references (depending on the course). You also may require Two LORs depending on the course.
To make your admission better, check out the following: How Admission Officers Evaluate your application.
Step 5: If your application is successful, you will receive an offer from the University of Manchester.
Q: Â Is TOEFL easier than IELTS?
Candidates should note that both TOEFL and IELTS are English language tests that have been designed for the benefit of students wanting to study in English speaking country abroad. These English proficiency tests will examine the English proficiency skills of the applicant and inform the university whether the candidate is fit for the curriculum. Hence, both exams have been created at par with each other.
Q: Â Why indian students choose to study at Hult International Business School - UK?
Indian students choose to study at Hult International Business School in the UK for several reasons, including its highly ranked programs, global outlook, and career support. Hult offers a range of full-time master’s degrees, immersive bachelor's programs, and MBA options that prepare students to excel in the global job market. The school is the largest and top-ranked global business school, providing students with an incomparable universal outlook. Additionally, Hult's focus on experiential learning, extensive career support, and the opportunity to study at multiple campuses around the world are attractive to Indian students seeking a global business education. Furthermore, the school's emphasis on innovation and meeting the needs of students and employers may also contribute to its appeal to Indian students
Q: Â Is getting part time jobs easy while studying at Hult International Business School - UK?
Q: Â How good is Coventry University (UK)?
Coventry University is one of the renowned universities popular for its rankings, academic structure, facilities, research opportunities, and location. The university offers over 130 UG and 100 PG programs across four faculties. Coventry University also ranked no. 1 for student-staff ratio in midlands as per 'The Complete University Guide 2025' and rated gold for student experience as per the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF 2023).
Raushan Kumar is a skilled writer and a Study Abroad Expert in the Editorial Team at Shiksha. He oversees various aspects of studying abroad, including educational opportunities, entrance exams, colleges, latest new... Read Full Bio
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The "better" test depends on your specific needs and goals. Both TOEFL and IELTS are widely accepted English proficiency tests, each with its own strengths and weaknesses.
The TOEFL exam is widely accepted in all the universities present in major study-abroad destinations such as the USA, the UK, Canada, Ireland, Australia and New Zealand. The mode of the TOEFL exam is computer-based and it focuses more on the academic English. The exam takes 2 hours to complete in which it assesses all four skills of the test taker namely - speaking, listening, reading and writing.
On the other hand, the IELTS exam covers modeules from both academic English and general training English. However, the IELTS exam format differ entirely from that of the TOEFL exam. The IELTS exam takes a total of 3 hours to get completed in two different sittings. Students have to take the speaking section (11-14 minutes, with a real examiner) of the test up to 7 days either before or after taking the main IELTS exam in which the reading, listening and writing skills are assessed in the time frame of 2 hours and 44 minutes.
The other main points of difference between the IELTS and TOEFL exams are given below. Students can choose the exam that suits them the best based on the following and above-mentioned information.