English proficiency exams become mandatory while applying for jobs or education abroad. Additionally, there are exams such as TOEFL and TOEIC, whose scores can fetch luck. Hence, learn the major differences, advantages and disadvantages of both the exam here.
Admissions or a job in a foreign country is often exhilarating. However, while thinking about admissions or a job outside India, taking the English language proficiency test becomes necessary. Two such tests are TOEFL and TOEIC: further, learning the difference between TOEFL and TOEIC is mandatory. Considering all the value of a degree from a foreign country can add a new dimension to the career aspect. Besides, bagging a job is equally enthralling.
In addition, TOEIC and TOEFL are pursued for different purposes. While the former yields high job value, the latter mainly opts for academic admissions. Besides, the examination varies concerning pattern, duration, preferences.
Therefore, before jumping to the conclusion of which exam to seek, let us learn the difference between TOEIC and TOEFL.
Difference Between TOEFL and TOEIC
There is often this conundrum between TOEIC and TOEFL, which is better. As discussed above, one is for admissions to colleges outside India, and the other is for jobs outside the country.
Nevertheless, most of the colleges and universities abroad accept TOEFL scores. Therefore performing well in the exam is vital for admissions. The basic knowledge of English is tested.
The TOEIC test examines the reading and writing skills of the candidate. Many MNCs hire candidates based on the score.
Therefore, let us now divulge the basic differences between TOEIC and TOEFL exam patterns:
| Particulars | TOEFL | TOEIC |
| Abbreviation | Test of English as Foreign Language | Test Of English International Communication |
| Organizing Body | Educational Testing Service (ETS) | Same as TOEFL: Educational Testing Services |
| Type of the Exam | Language test | This too is a language test |
| Exam Level | International | International examination |
| Frequency | Multiple Times a Year | |
| Duration | 190 to 240 Minutes | 220 Minutes |
| No of Question | 140 | 200 |
| Question Pattern | MCQs | |
| Score Range | 310-677 scale | 10-990 scale |
What is the Difference Between TOEFL, TOEIC, and IELTS?
The common factor that categorises the three in the same discipline is English Language proficiency tests. In contrast, TOEFL enhances the academic aspect and TOEIC job. Meanwhile, IELTS scores open opportunities for both academic and professional purposes.
IELTS stands for International English Language Testing System and the British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia and Cambridge Assessment English jointly own IELTS. Furthermore, the IELTS exam is used to evaluate the candidate's ability to communicate in English. The exam is conducted over 2 hours and 45 minutes.
What Are the Main Differences Between TOEIC and TOEFL?
We already know that the conducting authority, exam type, exam level, and question pattern is similar. Hence, let us now assess some more differences between the TOEIC and TOEFL.
| Particulars | TOEFL | TOEIC |
| What is the purpose of the test? | The TOEFL test scores are useful for academic admissions. | The scores of TOEIC are helpful for obtaining a job in foreign country. |
| Institutions accepting the scores | Universities and Colleges located abroad. | They are accepted by international companies, HR departments, recruiters. |
| What is the focus area of the test? | Listening, writing, speaking, and reading. | Listening and Reading capabilities. |
| Who opts for the test most often? | Candidates who want to complete their education from colleges/ universities outside India. | Mostly, candidates searching or travelling abroad for job purposes opts for this exam. |
Advantages of TOEIC and TOEFL
Certainly, there are some common advantages of TOEIC and TOEFL. Both the exams are quite popular in their respective fields. Additional advantages are as follows:
- The same authority both conducts TOEIC and TOEFL. Thus, candidates gauge the exam pattern.
- Both are international exams, follow an MCQ type of question pattern, and can be taken any time of the year.
- TOEIC is considered easier than TOEFL. Thus, candidates who have prepared for the TOEFL can easily appear for the TOEIC.
Disadvantages Between TOEIC and TOEFL
With advantages come disadvantages. Therefore, let us discuss the disadvantages that the candidates often face.
- TOEFL is widely popular and accepted, while TOEIC has less famous.
- The availability of TOEIC is less compared to TOEFL. The testing sites for TOEIC is limited to 50. Further, International testing sites are not even listed on the ETS website.
- TOEFL enhances the prospect of candidates both academically and for sustaining life on campus. TOEIC is only for passing to secure a job. Thus, TOEFL is always preferred.
- Although, TOEIC is quite a demand for most of the business schools abroad. It is also less expensive than TOEFL.
Best Books for TOEIC and TOEFL
Here is the list of books that are suitable for the preparation of TOEIC and TOEFL. These books are widely available and popular for the mentioned examination.
| Books | Author/ Publishers |
| TOEIC | |
| Cambridge Grammar and Vocabulary for the TOEIC Test | Jolene Gear |
| How to Prepare for the TOEIC Test | Lin Lougheed |
| Columbia 1000 Words You Must Know for TOEIC | Richard Lee |
| How to Build a Strong Vocab, Think Straight Magical Book (A to Z) | Dinesh Kumar Goyal |
| TOEFL | |
| The Official Guide to the TOEFL iBT Test | ETS |
| TOEFL Preparation Book | Test Prep Books |
| TOEFL 5lb Book of Practice Problems | Manhattan Prep |
FAQs Related to Difference Between TOEFL and TOEIC
1. Among TOEFL and TOEIC, which one is tougher?
As discussed earlier, TOEFL is considered to be more difficult than TOEIC. It is because TOEFL focuses on broad domains such as listening, writing, speaking, and reading. Meanwhile, TOEIC concentrates on listening and reading.
2. Does the TOEIC score yield the same value as TOEFL?
No, TOEIC scores are particularly accepted for jobs, while TOEFL scores are valid for educational purposes.
3. Which is costlier among TOEFL and TOEIC?
The fees for each exam varies. However, TOEIC is cheaper than TOEFL.
4. Are the question papers similar?
No, the question paper is not the same. Besides, both the exams serve different purposes.
5. What is the bare minimum eligibility for TOEFL?
Candidates must pass 10+2 and must be 18 years old to apply for TOEFL.
