The Ultimate Guide to TOEFL iBT to IELTS Conversion

Taking a variety of language competence tests is a common first step on the path to foreign education or professional opportunities. For many non-native English speakers, two prominent tests stand out: the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) iBT and the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). 

IELTS and TOEFL are key exams for non-native English speakers, offering access to top universities, career growth, and relocation opportunities. So, while you are preparing for IELTS and have a sample score, you might consider estimating your TOEFL score, which is also crucial for a comprehensive understanding of your English skills. This is where conversion charts can assist you and guide you in test choice and boost your confidence for applications and preparation. 

Before moving on to the specifics of score conversions, it's crucial to step back and examine both the IELTS and TOEFL from a broader perspective.

IELTS vs TOEFL iBT: A Quick Look at the Differences

TOEFL iBT and IELTS are two prominent English language proficiency tests, each with distinct features. In order to choose the best test option, you need to analyse these differences and find which one suits you the most. The table below lists the contrasts and offers a quick recapitulation.

Since the main concern is about the IELTS and TOEFL iBT score, it should be good for you to check the difference in score calculation of these exams.

How are the IELTS vs TOEFL iBT Scores Different?

While both TOEFL iBT and IELTS share the common goal of assessing proficiency in the fundamental language skills, they have some notable distinctions in the way the scores are calculated.

In the TOEFL iBT exam, you are scored individually on four skills –Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking – each on a scale from 0 to 30 with 1-point increments. These scores collectively contribute to a total TOEFL score, which ranges from 0 to 120. Suppose you score 28 in Reading, 25 in Writing, 29 in Listening, and 27 in Speaking, your overall TOEFL score would be the sum of these individual scores, resulting in a total of 109 out of 120.

On the other hand, in the IELTS, you are assessed with separate band scores for Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking, each ranging from 0 to 9 with half-point increments. Moreover, the total IELTS band score is not the sum but the average of these four scores, also on a 0-9 scale. Therefore, if you score 8 in Reading, 6 in Writing, 8 in Listening, and 7 in Speaking, the average score will be 7.25. As the total IELTS scores are always rounded to the nearest half-point, your final score will be 7.5.

Now that you have got a clarity on the difference between IELTS and TOEFL iBT scoring, let’s explore the five conversion tables - one for total score and four for section-wise insights - that will guide you to convert TOEFL iBT to IELTS scores and choose the best option for you!

Comparing Total Scores of TOEFL iBT and IELTS 

Converting scores between TOEFL iBT and IELTS isn't a cakewalk. They use different scoring systems, making it a bit tricky to compare them directly. 

The most common approach of TOEFL iBT to IELTS conversion is to use a conversion chart followed by most institutions and agencies. These charts typically provide a rough estimation of equivalent scores, allowing test-takers to better understand where they stand in terms of IELTS proficiency based on their TOEFL iBT results. 

However, you should keep in mind that these conversions are approximations, and the actual score requirements may vary among institutions. Take a look at the table below to get a clear picture of how TOEFL iBT total scores align with IELTS Academic overall band scores. This will help you make sense of the connection between the two.

TOEFL iBT to IELTS Conversion: Section-Wise Comparison Made Easy

IELTS grades each section from 0 to 9, but TOEFL iBT goes with a 0 to 30 scale. Since there's a pretty big scoring difference, you will want to lean on those conversion tables to make sense of it all, especially for each section. This is especially significant for institutions and organisations that may have specific minimum requirements for individual section scores.

So, learn more on how the scores are compared in each section for the TOEFL iBT and IELTS exam in the tables given below.

TOEFL iBT to IELTS Conversion: Reading

In TOEFL iBT, the reading section assesses the ability to comprehend and analyse academic texts. On the IELTS test, the reading module evaluates similar skills but includes a broader range of general and academic reading materials.

Check out the table below highlighting IELTS to TOEFL iBT conversion, with a particular focus on reading scores.

TOEFL iBT to IELTS Conversion: Listening

It is important to note that both tests assess listening skills, but there are subtle differences. While TOEFL iBT often incorporates academic lectures and discussions, IELTS includes a mix of general and academic audio materials. 

Check out the IELTS to TOEFL iBT conversion chart tailored to present the Listening scores.

TOEFL iBT to IELTS Conversion: Writing

TOEFL iBT's writing tasks centre around combining information from reading and listening materials and presenting your opinion, while IELTS requires you to express opinions and ideas coherently based on a question. 

Check out the IELTS to TOEFL iBT conversion table specifically presenting the Writing scores.

TOEFL iBT to IELTS Conversion: Speaking

The speaking section in TOEFL iBT involves responding to academic tasks, while IELTS speaking tasks cover a broader range of everyday situations. Converting scores in the speaking section involves recognizing the test focus differences, with TOEFL iBT emphasising academic contexts and IELTS spanning everyday communicative scenarios.

Take a look at the dedicated table for IELTS to TOEFL iBT conversion, outlining the scores specific to the Speaking section.

What Does the TOEFL iBT to IELTS Conversion Charts Mean for You?

This is one of the common questions asked by most TOEFL iBT and IELTS candidates. So, without further ado, let us take a closer look at the benefits of familiarising yourself with these five important TOEFL iBT to IELTS conversion tables.

• Score Translation: The TOEFL iBT to IELTS conversion charts act as a guide for you to translate your scores accurately between the two tests. Since the scoring systems for TOEFL iBT and IELTS differ, these charts will help you understand how your performance on one test aligns with the expectations of the other.
• Program Compatibility: Many academic programs and institutions accept both TOEFL iBT and IELTS scores. The conversion charts will provide clarity for you aiming for such programs, ensuring you can confidently present your language proficiency using the appropriate scale.
• Sectional Insights: Beyond total scores, the conversion charts offer insights into section-wise performance. This breakdown is invaluable for students like you and institutions alike, allowing a better understanding of their strengths and weaknesses in areas such as reading, listening, speaking, and writing.
• Informed Decision-Making: Armed with the knowledge from these charts, you can make informed decisions about which test to take based on your strengths and the requirements of your desired programs. This strategic approach enhances your chances of success in the application process.
• Language Proficiency Consistency: The conversion charts contribute to maintaining consistency in presenting language proficiency. Therefore, you can confidently submit scores knowing that your performance is accurately reflected, irrespective of whether you took the TOEFL iBT or IELTS, fostering a fair and transparent evaluation process.

Well, now that you are familiar with the charts to convert TOEFL iBT to IELTS scores as well as their benefits, it is high time you begin your exam preparation in full swing!