In TOEFL iBT and TOEFL Essentials tests, which test to choose, it is confusing, especially if you are not sure which one is accepted by the universities or jobs you are targeting. We have compared the two tests in detail, format, duration, scoring, cost, and acceptance, so you can decide which TOEFL test is better for your study or work goals.
When it comes to proving your English language proficiency, especially for academic purposes, the ETS 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 designed for people who don't need a full academic English test. 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 approximately 2 hours 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.
Predict your IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE in just 4 steps!
- What is TOEFL iBT?
- What is TOEFL Essentials Test?
- TOEFL iBT vs TOEFL Essentials
- TOEFL iBT vs TOEFL Essentials: Which is better?
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. |
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 116 minutes. |
The total duration of the TOEFL Essentials Test is 1.5 hours. |
| What does the test measure? |
The TOEFL iBT test measures language communication 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 USD 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: Which is better?
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. In short, TOEFL iBT is best for full-time university programs and is accepted worldwide. TOEFL Essentials is easier and faster, but not yet accepted everywhere.
Candidates are required to check the admission requirements of the university/visa before registering for their preferred test. 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 13,000 institutions in more than 160 countries worldwide.
Need help? Talk to our Shiksha Study Abroad Counsellors or join our free TOEFL prep classes to start your journey.
Related Reads
TOEFL iBT (Internet-Based Test) is a widely recognised 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.
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.
Statement of Purpose
Letter of Recommendation
Student Visa Application
Admission Essay Writing
Student Curriculum Vitae
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.