IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is an English language proficiency test for non-native English speakers, which is designed to test the language ability of a person who is planning to study or work in a country where English is used as the language of communication. IELTS is accepted by more than 11,000 employers, universities, schools, and immigration bodies around the world. The test assesses your ability to read, write, listen, and speak in English, the test is graded on a scale of 1-9 bands.
- The reading section of the test evaluates your ability to comprehend written English material through passages from books, articles, and other sources. The section consists of 30 – 40 questions and takes 50 – 60 minutes.
- The listening section of the test evaluates your ability to understand spoken English through recordings of conversations, lectures, and classroom discussions. The test has 3 academic lectures with 6 questions each and 2 campus conversations with 5 questions each.
- The writing section of the test evaluates your ability to write English with academic proficiency, wherein candidates are required to write 2 different essays.
- The speaking section of the test evaluates your ability to speak and communicate effectively in English by responding to different speaking tasks.
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is a standardized test that measures the English language proficiency of non-native English speakers who are planning to study, work, or apply for a visa application in an English-speaking country, especially in the United States of America. TOEFL scores are reported on a scale of 0 – 120, with each of the four sections (Reading, Listening, Writing, and Speaking) scored on a scale of 0 – 30. TOEFL is generally used for academic purposes for admissions and scholarship applications, but can also be required for immigration and professional certification in some cases.
- The reading section measures your ability to understand and analyze written material through reading passages from various sources, such as academic articles, books, and newspapers.
- The listening section measures a candidate’s ability to understand and follow spoken English and answer questions from a variety of audio recordings, such as lectures, conversations, and discussions.
- The writing section of the test assesses a candidate’s ability to write English through two tasks: an integrated writing task and an Independent writing task.
- The speaking section of the task evaluates a student’s ability to communicate effectively in spoken English by answering questions about lectures and conversations and expressing your opinion on various topics.
English communication or spoken English has become very important nowadays, it is a bridge that connects people across cultures and continents and is a universal language. English can be used in everyday conversations, academic pursuits, or professional endeavors. Speaking English is important in the modern world as it enhances both personal growth and career opportunities. English is also vital for negotiation, decision-making, and building strong business relationships with professional backgrounds, and ensuring clarity in transactions.