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Which English Test Do Universities Prefer in 2026: IELTS or TOEFL?

Updated: Jan 21

For students planning to study abroad in 2026, one of the first questions that comes up is surprisingly simple—but very important: Should I take IELTS or TOEFL?

Parents ask it. Students worry about it. And often, confusion delays applications.

The truth is, both IELTS and TOEFL are widely accepted, but universities do have preferences depending on the country, course, and even teaching style. Choosing the right test early can save time, money, and unnecessary stress.


Why English Language Tests Matter More Than Ever in 2026

English proficiency tests are no longer just a visa requirement. Universities now use these scores to assess whether a student can:

  • Understand lectures

  • Participate in discussions

  • Write academic papers

  • Handle real-world communication

With universities becoming more focused on student success and retention, English test scores play a bigger role in admissions decisions than before.

That’s why choosing the right test, not just any test, matters.


IELTS and TOEFL: A Quick Overview

Before comparing preferences, let’s understand what each test is designed for.

IELTS (International English Language Testing System)

  • Available in Academic and General Training

  • Uses British English (but accepts all accents)

  • Tests listening, reading, writing, and speaking

  • Speaking is conducted face-to-face with an examiner

TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)

  • Internet-based (TOEFL iBT)

  • Uses American English

  • Tests reading, listening, speaking, and writing

  • Speaking is done via computer

Both tests assess similar skills, but the test experience and scoring style differ.


Which Test Do Universities Prefer in 2026?

The Short Answer

Most universities accept both IELTS and TOEFL in 2026.

The Practical Answer

Preferences vary by:

  • Country

  • University

  • Course type

  • Mode of instruction

Let’s break it down.


IELTS: Where It Is Strongly Preferred

In 2026, IELTS continues to be the most commonly accepted English test worldwide.

Universities often prefer IELTS because:

  • It reflects real-life academic communication

  • The speaking test evaluates natural conversation skills

  • Scores are easier to interpret across institutions

IELTS is especially popular in:

  • The UK and Ireland

  • New Zealand

  • Asian and Middle Eastern universities

  • Many private and public universities worldwide

IELTS is also widely accepted for:

  • Undergraduate programs

  • Postgraduate programs

  • Professional and vocational courses


TOEFL: Where It Still Has an Edge

TOEFL remains a strong option, especially for:

  • Universities following a US-style academic system

  • Research-oriented institutions

  • Students comfortable with computer-based testing

TOEFL is commonly accepted by:

  • Universities in the United States

  • Institutions with strong research and STEM focus

  • Universities that prefer structured, standardised testing formats

In 2026, TOEFL is still widely recognised—but some universities now list IELTS as their primary or preferred option, with TOEFL as an alternative.


Why Many Universities Lean Toward IELTS in 2026

Over the past few years, universities have observed that students with IELTS scores often:

  • Adapt faster to classroom discussions

  • Communicate better in group work

  • Handle presentations and seminars more confidently

Because IELTS speaking is conducted with a real person, it reflects practical communication ability, not just test performance.

For this reason, many universities mention:

“IELTS preferred” even when TOEFL is accepted.


Course Type Also Influences Test Preference

The course you choose matters as much as the country.

Courses That Often Prefer IELTS

  • Business & Management

  • Healthcare & Allied Sciences

  • Humanities & Social Sciences

  • Education & Teaching programs

These courses require strong interpersonal communication, making IELTS a better fit.

Courses That Commonly Accept TOEFL

  • Engineering

  • Computer Science

  • Data & Technology programs

  • Research-focused degrees

These fields rely more on reading, listening, and structured responses, where TOEFL works well.


IELTS vs TOEFL: Which Is Easier for Indian Students?

There is no “easy” test—but many Indian students find IELTS more comfortable.

Why Students Often Prefer IELTS

  • Familiar accent exposure

  • Face-to-face speaking reduces anxiety for some

  • Flexible test formats (computer or paper)

  • Widely available test dates

When TOEFL May Suit You Better

  • You prefer speaking into a microphone

  • You are comfortable typing essays quickly

  • You plan to apply mainly to US-based universities

The right test depends on your comfort level, not just university acceptance.


Score Requirements in 2026: What Universities Expect

While exact scores vary, common expectations are:

IELTS

  • Undergraduate: 6.0 – 6.5

  • Postgraduate: 6.5 – 7.0

  • Competitive programs: 7.0+

TOEFL iBT

  • Undergraduate: 70 – 85

  • Postgraduate: 80 – 95

  • Competitive programs: 95+

Some universities also require minimum section-wise scores, especially in writing and speaking.


Can You Switch Tests If Needed?

Yes—but it’s not always ideal.

Students sometimes start with one test and later realise a university prefers the other. This leads to:

  • Extra exam costs

  • Delayed applications

  • Increased stress

That’s why choosing the right test at the planning stage is crucial.


How Admissiongyan Helps You Choose the Right Test

At Admissiongyan, we don’t recommend IELTS or TOEFL blindly.

We evaluate:

  • Your target countries

  • Shortlisted universities

  • Chosen course and career path

  • Your language strengths and test comfort

Based on this, we guide you toward the test that gives you maximum acceptance with minimum risk.

Our goal is not just admission—but smooth academic success abroad.


Final Verdict: IELTS or TOEFL in 2026?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer.

But in 2026:

  • IELTS is more universally preferred

  • TOEFL remains strong for specific academic systems

  • Universities increasingly value real communication skills

The best test is the one that:

  • Matches your university list

  • Aligns with your course

  • Fits your personal strengths

Plan Your English Test the Smart Way

Confused about whether to choose IELTS or TOEFL? Not sure what your shortlisted universities prefer?

Let Admissiongyan guide you with clarity—not guesswork.

📌 Get personalised guidance based on:

  • Your study abroad goals

  • University preferences

  • Course requirements

👉 Book a free counselling session with Admissiongyan today and take the first confident step toward your 2026 study abroad plan.


 
 
 

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