Both of these tests for English as a foreign language are crucial in deciding whether or not you will be studying at the college of your choice. Scores of either one of the exams, or both in some cases, go into forming a student’s aggregate and deciding whether or not they will get into the colleges they aspire for.
Each of these examinations is designed to test a student’s English language skills. This is done keeping in mind that English will be the language in which the student will be taught as well as the primary language spoken around them. No college abroad will accept a student without the requisite IELTS/TOEFL scores. Students with low scores are often advised to attend remedial classes or asked to take the test again at a later date. This often wastes precious time of the student. It is always imperative to clear these tests on the first go and with the highest possible marks because not only are they simple, they ensure you are adept at the language you are going to be immersed in.
IELTS
Called the International English Language Testing System, this test assesses the proficiency in English among students. It tests all four skills regarding the use of the language, listening, reading, writing and speaking. This makes sure that the student is ably prepared to face an environment with English as its primary language. Depending upon their requirements, be it for visa or educational goals, the test takers can choose either an Academic IELTS test or a General Training IELTS test. The listening and speaking components for all the students stay the same however the reading and writing components differ for both these versions. This test has a nine band score system with nine being the highest you can get and showing the most amount of proficiency in the language.
IELTS Academic examination measures a student’s proficiency in English considering their higher education aspirations and tests them accordingly. On the other hand IELTS General Training measures the comfort one displays with English language in a practical, day-to-day context. This form of a test is also mandatory during visa requirements for English speaking countries like Australia, UK, Canada, and New Zealand.
TOEFL
The full name of this test is, the Test of English as a Foreign Language. It is one of the most important parts of getting an admission in a university abroad. Most colleges and universities in many countries of Europe along with Canada and the USA use the scores of these tests to evaluate the English proficiency of candidates. This test helps them understand how, and to what extent, is the individual able to communicate in English.
Students whose native tongue is not English are usually required to take this exam during the process of applying for their student visa as well as a settlement visa or work visa. Accepted by over 8000 institutions across 140 countries, this is one of the most widely accepted English language test. This score is valid for two years. With a total score of 120, the test is divided into four different segments namely reading, writing, speaking and listening.
Both of these tests for English as a foreign language are comprehensive and widely accepted. To score well in any of these requires dedicated effort and an understanding of the subject at hand, English. We’ll talk more on how to score the most in these examinations in the next installment.
Source:http://raooverseas.com/blog/index.php/the-importance-of-ielts-and-toefl/