The TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) tests the candidate’s level of English proficiency and is generally required for you to study or work in English-speaking countries. The test is done on a computer and contains four sections: Reading, Listening, Writing and Speaking.

The Reading section includes texts with multiple choice comprehension and vocabulary questions. The Listening section tests understanding in informal situations and academic lectures. The Speaking section involves responding to several prompts, and there are two essay tasks in the Writing section.

The maximum score for each section is 30 points, adding to a total of 120 points for the four sections.

IELTS

For students wishing to study in the UK, the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is required to show English proficiency. IELTS is also accepted in the USA and other English-speaking countries.

The test contains four sections: Reading, Listening, Writing and Speaking. The Reading, Listening and Writing sections can be done on paper or on a computer, while oral proficiency is tested face to face with an interviewer.

The Reading section tests comprehension of texts and vocabulary through multiple choice and short answer questions. The Listening section tests the candidate through conversations between students or excerpts from academic lectures. In the Writing section involves writing two essays, and the Speaking section requires candidates to talk about a wide range of subjects.

Each section is worth 9 points. The final score, also out of 9, is the average of the four sections.