When to Start Preparing for IELTS or TOEFL?
TOEFL
Talk to ExpertWhen to start preparing for the IELTS and TOEFL exams is a matter of interest for most students seeking higher education abroad. A good score in either of these exams can help students get admitted to the university of their dreams and the course they want. For that reason, preparing enough and starting your preparation well in advance becomes important.
If you belong to a country where English is not the native language, you will be required to take the IELTS or TOEFL if you wish to study, shift, or apply for a PR in a country where English is spoken. The question is when should you do it? When to start preparing for the same? How long should you prepare for these exams? What is the best time to write the exam?
When Should You Start Preparing for IELTS and TOEFL Exams?
To start answering one or all of the above, let us quickly recap the important aspects of the two exams.
|
|
IELTS |
TOEFL |
|---|---|---|
| Conducted by |
International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is conducted by British Council, IDP IELTS Australia, and Cambridge English Language Assessment. |
Test of English as a Foreign Language is conducted by Educational Testing Services (ETS) |
| Accepted by/ for |
Across Europe, Australia, Canada as well as USA and Singapore. |
Across the USA and also in Europe, Australia, Canada but might vary from institute to institute |
| Test Structure |
IELTS Academic Divided into 4 sections: |
TOEFL is also broadly divided into Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking |
| Score Range |
IELTS is scored on a band range of 0 - 9 with 9 being an expert user. |
TOEFL Internet-based test (iBT) is scored on a range of 0 - 120 |
| Score Validity |
Valid for 2 years |
Valid for 2 years |
| Repetitions |
Can be taken multiple numbers of times (on the days given) |
Can be repeated multiple numbers of times provided there is a gap of 3 days between two consecutive attempts |
Summarily, both the tests are similar in manner and content, and test the candidates in the same areas. As far as repeating them is concerned, they are similar too and hence would necessarily require a similar timeline. So, when should you start preparing and when should you write the exam?
Predict your IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE in just 4 steps!
The important point to note about both exams is the validity of 2 years as against the validity of a GMAT / GRE score that is for 5 years. Moreover, since a normal timeline for study abroad aspirants – from deciding to go abroad to actually going abroad, is about 18 months, this validity is of great importance. In addition, while some courses would require you to prove efficiency in the language, in some courses you might have to provide the score for visa purposes. Again, for admission processes, you would have to have the scores at least 12 months to 8 months ahead of the planned intake. For visa purposes, on the other hand, you might require it only at the time of applying for a visa, which would be about 4 months before the session begins.
You must be clear when you have to provide your IELTS score or TOEFL score. What we recommend is that you should be ready with the scores 12 months before the intended sessions. This provides the candidate with the option of applying to various session intakes across different countries where the scores are valid. Taking it too early could necessitate a re-take, and too late might cause unnecessary stress. Moreover, different universities have different timelines. In order to meet those timelines, you must be prepared with your application documents well before time.
If the course, that you are applying to, does not require you to provide an IELTS/ TOEFL score, and you only need it for visa purposes, we suggest you keep it till the time you have started with the application process. Once the letters start to arrive, you can always register and write the exam. A word of caution though…do not keep it for the last minute. You might not get a date and the delay might cause a delay in your visa application as well. Hence, either way, a 12-month window before your intended departure is suitable. We always recommend that if you are planning to study abroad, starting early is the mantra for success.
Having said all this, it is safe to say that the day you decide to go abroad for your studies is when you should ideally start preparing for these exams. Unless and until you have taken up a course which removes the necessity of a language proficiency test, these tests might be asked of you at any point. Hence, you can start preparing for these exams. Moreover, since the exams are necessarily about learning the language, preparing for them can never truly go to waste. Just brush up your language, pay more emphasis on understanding the nuances, and make it a point to communicate – both verbal and written, in the language. So, even if you are still years from your intended study abroad journey…start working on your language.
If you have doubt about which test to choose, you might want to read the following articles:
When to Start Preparing for IELTS or TOEFL FAQs
Q. How long does it take to prepare for IELTS or TOEFL?
A. The time needed to prepare for IELTS or TOEFL varies depending on several factors. Generally, most students spend 1-3 months preparing intensively. However, some may need 6 months or more, while others with advanced English skills might be ready in just a few weeks. Typically, your preparation schedule must involve:
- 2-3 hours of daily study
- Weekly practice tests
- Focused work on weaker areas
Q. What are the IELTS and TOEFL exam fees for Indian students?
A. The IELTS exam fee and the TOEFL exam fee vary slightly for Indian students. The IELTS exam fee for Indian students is ₹17,000 while the TOEFL exam fee for Indian students is ₹16,900.
Q: How can I prepare for TOEFL at home?
One searching for TOEFL preparation startegy without taking help of any coachings.
Self-Study Resources: Utilize online platform like ETS, and practice questions and study materials.
Listening Practice: Listen to English podcasts, lectures, and audiobooks to improve comprehension.
Reading Practice: Read academic articles or textbooks to familiarize yourself with academic vocabulary and structure.
Speaking Practice: Record yourself speaking on various topics and review your pronunciation and fluency.
Writing Practice: Write essays and seek feedback form any experts.
Q: How long should I study for the TOEFL?
The ideal duration depends on the TOEFL test taker's English proficiency and target score. Generally, dedicating 3-6 months with consistent practice sessions should yield the desired TOEFL scores. TOEFL test takers are further advised to analyze their practice test scores and identify areas needing improvement to tailor their study plan.
Q: Can I pass TOEFL online?
There is no such thing as failing or passing the TOEFL exam. The TOEFL exam is held online at a test centre near you and is also being conducted in the safety of your home via the online method. Candidates who have prepared for the TOEFL would qualify for the exam. Candidates should note that higher TOEFL scores would automatically increase their chances of securing a seat in the university and also make them a front runner for any scholarships being offered by the university. A low TOEFL score would require the student to re-take the exam to improve his/her performance.
Q: Is the TOEFL difficult for Indian students?
Yes, the TOEFL exam is relatively difficult than other English tests. However, the difficulty is subjective and depends on your current English proficiency level and preparation. While challenges like vocabulary gaps and adapting to the computer format (for the iBT) are common, dedicated preparation can help Indian students excel. Utilize official ETS resources like practice tests and study guides, supplement with free online tools and consider coaching classes if needed. Remember, consistent practice and addressing specific weaknesses are key to success.
Q: Which book is best to prepare for TOEFL exam?
The best book to study for your TOEFL exam is the one that has been published by ETS. The ETS is the conducting body of the TOEFL exam, hence, the books and study material available on the official ETS TOEFL website should be your only source of preparation for your TOEFL exam.
Q: 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: 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: What is a Good TOEFL Score?
TOEFL Scores: There are no good or bad scores when appearing for the TOEFL test. Candidates would be required to meet the TOEFL score decided by the universities. anything above would increase their chances of getting admission into the university and any score below the range could serve as a roadblock in the admission process.
However, to make your test experience more personal and for you to understand your score better ETS has provided 4 to 5 proficiency levels for each skill. So where your score falls within that range tells you your proficiency for that skill. This will give you a fair idea about your performance, your strengths, sections that need improvement, and so on. Test takers can look at the table below to understand their TOEFL iBT Scores better.
Skill/ Score Range | Level* |
|---|---|
Reading Score Range 0–30 | Advanced (24–30) |
Listening Score Range 0–30 | Advanced (22–30) |
Speaking Score Range 0–30 | Advanced (25–30) |
Writing Score Range 0–30 | Advanced (24–30) |
Total Score | These are added together for a total score of 0–120. |
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