For most job seekers in 2026, IELTS tends to be slightly tougher than TOEFL—especially in writing and speaking. But which exam feels hardest depends on your background, your English skills, and which employers or countries you target. Both tests will open doors, but one may fit your goals better.
If your career depends on a solid English score, it’s worth sharpening your understanding of how these tests differ. Employers in both the UK and US are scrutinizing language results more closely. Before you plan your next move, click here to test my English and see where you stand for global job applications.
IELTS vs TOEFL Difficulty: Key Differences for Job Seekers [2026 Table]
IELTS and TOEFL both measure real-world English, but the way they do it feels different. IELTS has face-to-face speaking, shorter texts in reading, and diverse accents. TOEFL is fully computer-based, tests longer texts, and uses American English. Some people say IELTS is like sprinting across a series of short hurdles. TOEFL feels more like a marathon—longer, more intensive reading and listening. Employers in Europe and Australia lean into IELTS, while US firms trust TOEFL more. To illustrate the comparison, here’s a focused breakdown:
| Exam | Format | Scoring System | Speaking Section | Major Employer Recognition | Skill Focus |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IELTS | Paper/Computer | Bands 1–9 | Live Interview | UK, Australia, Europe | Balanced |
| TOEFL | Entirely Computer | 120 points | Recorded | USA, Canada | Academic |
| International English Test (IET) | Online Adaptive | CEFR A1–C2 | Online Interview | Global (Emerging) | Practical |
| PTE Academic | Computer Adaptive | 10–90 points | Recorded | Australia, UK | Integrated |
For the real test day, IELTS’s speaking can feel like facing a job interview panel. TOEFL? You’ll speak to a computer—less pressure for some, but harder for others who find it unnatural. Reading and listening in TOEFL will demand deep focus over a longer stretch. Writing is where IELTS tips the scale for many—it expects precision, clarity, and fast brainstorming.
- IELTS—Trusted for immigration and UK/EU career moves
- TOEFL—Essential for US/Canada academic and tech roles
- IET—Gaining traction worldwide for general job skills
How Test Difficulty Affects Job Applications and Recruitment
Hiring managers treat language scores like a passport. In banking and consulting, a band 7.0 in IELTS or 100+ in TOEFL puts you on the shortlist. Healthcare, hospitality, and tech firms review English credentials carefully—especially for client-facing jobs or cross-border teams. Think of your English exam score like your driving license: The higher it is, the more doors it opens, but certain roads require a specific grade.
Lately, company HR teams are using smart online testing platforms to judge applicants before an interview—and they’ll often check both the English exam certificate and your current language level. For insights on these systems, see the Best Online English Assessment Platforms for HR Teams and Recruiters resource, which outlines what top employers look for in language screening.
- IELTS is the default for government or legal jobs in the UK and Australia.
- TOEFL dominates tech, research, and engineering hiring in the US and Canada.
- Scores from 110+ (TOEFL) or Band 8+ (IELTS) set candidates apart for leadership roles.
The tough part? If your score is below the local cut-off, most companies won’t even read your resumé. Raising your English grade is like refueling for a long-haul flight—if you land short, you’re not getting to your destination.
Visa, Migration, and Work Permit Requirements for IELTS and TOEFL
Governments around the world treat English language tests as a litmus test for skilled professionals. Australia, Canada, and the UK set clear minimums—sometimes as high as IELTS 7.0 or TOEFL 95, depending on job type. If you’re chasing a work permit or skilled migration pathway, your exam choice and score can mean the difference between approval and frustration. It’s like the right key fitting a lock; use the wrong one, and the door stays closed.
- IELTS: Required or highly recommended for all skilled worker UK/Australia visas
- TOEFL: Accepted for US visas (limited), key for student and researcher permits in North America
- PTE and IET: Mostly accepted in Australia, New Zealand, growing in other markets
Minimum scores change by sector. Healthcare workers and teachers face tougher standards. Always double-check if your job target country has specific score lists for your occupation. With digital testing now mainstream, it’s easier to pick the exam you’ll perform best in—but it still pays to compare recent migration policies before booking.
If you’re unsure which test highlights your strengths, try timed practice sessions in both IELTS and TOEFL formats today—back-to-back. This reveals which exam style is more comfortable under pressure and can shape your final choice long before you pay for the official test.
FAQ
Is IELTS or TOEFL easier for non-native speakers?
IELTS is generally harder for those who struggle with face-to-face speaking. TOEFL’s longer texts and American accents challenge other test takers more, so it depends on your environment and skills.
Which test do employers prefer in 2026?
UK, EU, and Australian employers often ask for IELTS, while US and Canadian firms look for TOEFL. Some industries accept both, but always check the job description.
Can I use my IELTS or TOEFL score to migrate?
Yes, both are accepted for skilled migration, but the required score can vary by country, job role, and sector. Research current visa lists for up-to-date information.
How long are IELTS and TOEFL scores valid?
Normally, scores remain valid for two years from the test date. Some employers or agencies may request more recent results for applications.
What happens if I don’t meet the minimum score?
You’ll need to retake the exam or focus on further English study. Most employers and visa agencies won’t accept applications below their minimum requirements.