Choosing between the IELTS in Sri Lankaand TOEFL depends on your goals, preferences, and circumstances. Here is a quick comparison to help you decide.
IELTS (International English Language Testing System):
Format:
Listening: 30 minutes
Reading: 60 minutes
Writing: 60 minutes
Speaking: 11-14 minutes (face-to-face interview)
Test Versions:
Academic: For higher education or professional registration.
General Training: For immigration or work purposes.
Scoring:
Scored on a band scale from 1 to 9.
Acceptance:
Widely accepted in the UK, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand.
Format Preferences:
Some people prefer the face-to-face speaking test.
The paper-based format may be more comfortable for those who prefer traditional methods.
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language):
Format:
Reading: 54-72 minutes
Listening: 41-57 minutes
Speaking: 17 minutes (computer-based)
Writing: 50 minutes
Scoring:
Scored on a scale from 0 to 120.
Acceptance:
Widely accepted in the US, Canada, and many other countries.
Format Preferences:
The test is computer-based, which might be preferable for those comfortable with digital formats.
The speaking test is done via computer, which can be less intimidating for some.
Considerations:
Location: Check which test is more commonly accepted in the countries or institutions you are interested in.
Format: Consider whether you prefer a computer-based or paper-based test and whether you are comfortable with a face-to-face interview or a computer-based speaking test.
Preparation: Look at the materials and resources available for preparation and see which test you feel more prepared for.
Both tests are widely accepted and well-regarded. It is worth considering which format suits you best and where you plan to use your test results.
Preparatory classes for IELTS & TOEFL
Preparatory classes for both IELTS and TOEFL are designed to help you become familiar with the test formats, improve your English language skills, and develop test-taking strategies. The IELTS Sri Lanka course fee, as well as those for TOEFL, are diverse, but quite affordable. Here is what you can typically expect from each:
IELTS Preparatory Classes
Format Familiarisation:
Listening: Practice with audio recordings similar to the test’s format.
Reading: Work on various types of texts and practice answering different question types.
Writing: Focus on task 1 (describing visual information) and task 2 (writing essays), with feedback on structure, grammar, and coherence.
Speaking: Participate in mock interviews and practice answering questions on various topics.
Skills Development:
Enhance vocabulary, grammar, and overall writing and speaking proficiency through IELTS classes.
Learn techniques for skimming, scanning, and understanding different types of reading passages.
Test Strategies:
Practice time management and strategies for each section of the test.
Learn how to approach different question types effectively.
Mock Tests:
Take practice tests under timed conditions to simulate the test environment and get used to the pressure with IELTS online classes.
Feedback:
Receive feedback on your performance, particularly in writing and speaking, to identify areas for improvement.
TOEFL Preparatory Classes
Format Familiarisation:
Reading: Practise reading passages and answering questions similar to the test format.
Listening: Work with recordings and practice answering questions based on the content.
Speaking: Practise responding to prompts within the allotted time and improve your speaking fluency and coherence.
Writing: Focus on integrated and independent writing tasks, with feedback on essay structure, grammar, and argumentation.
Skills Development:
Build vocabulary and improve grammar for academic English.
Develop note-taking skills for the listening section and integrate information effectively in the speaking and writing sections.
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