Busting Myths About IELTS & TOEFL

Most of the students dream of studying abroad. But for studying abroad, there are different tests that a student needs to undergo. What are those tests?. Well, the English language proficiency tests should necessarily be taken by the students. This tests the language ability of the students, level of accuracy of language, how well the individual can use the language as a medium of communication, etc. The different entrance tests include IELTS, TOEFL, Pearson PTE, Cambridge English Language Assessment.

Myths & facts about different proficiency tests

Myths about IELTS

Myth 1: IELTS is very difficult to crack

Fact: Well, the difficulty of IELTS depends on individual proficiency in English language. IELTS is mainly divided in four sections that can be done well if the preparation and command is good. It is not difficult as it seems.

Myth 2: Speaking in British accent is one of the best ways to clear IELTS

Fact: Accent is not important for appearing for the IELTS. It is not a part of the evaluation process. More important is use of grammar, punctuations, pronounication, fluency and coherance, argument and conversational skills. A better way to prepare for fluency in the language is practice reading aloud, converse in English on a day-to-day basis, watch English content online.

Myth 3: Voicing out personal opinion is not permitted

Fact: IELTS has been encouraging the test takers to express their opinions through writing, especially in the essay section. The candidate can voice out their opinion and support the same with relevant examples and arguments. Also, it does not mean that candidates need to agree with each and every point as it is. The exam evaluates the fluency in conversation along with good grammar, pronounciation and suitable phrases.

Myth 4: Knowing the British culture is necessary

Fact: IELTS is purely designed to test the English language proficiency of the candidate and not testing the cultural kowledge. Though the test can be taken by people from various cultural backgrounds.

Myth 5: There is a pass and fail system in IELTS

Fact: IELTS does not have a passing and failing system. The exam provides a band score of 0 to 9 for each section along with a overall band score. Various institutions set their minimum pass grade for IELTS. With this, IELTS does not have any minimum score.

Myths about TOEFL:

Myth 1: TOEFL tests can be taken only once

Fact: The truth about TOEFL is that there is no limit on the number of times one can take the exam. The students have the choice to reappear for their exams for improvising their scores.

Myth 2: TOEFL scores are accepted in every other university

Fact: Partially, the myth is true. The test is accepted across most of the universities. But, the native speakers are on the benefit side that makes it challenging for everyone. There are different minimum scores for different universities that makes it a test with no minimum or maximum score.

Myth 3: TOEFL is a very expensive test

Fact: TOEFL is an exam that does not charge any registration fees and the costing part might vary as per the location. Apart from this, additional fees will be charged for various services including rescheduling or score reporting. TOEFL often involves research, development and maintainance to ensure smooth functioning.

Myth 4: TOEFL scoring is very similar to other proficiency tests

Fact: Though scoring in TOEFL might be a bit similar, TOEFL stands out different. The total score for TOEFL iBT (internet-based test) is 120 points. Unlike other tests, TOEFL too is divided into sections. Each section has certain marks allotted to it.

Myth 5: TOEFL exam is easier in few nations

Fact: This is a complete hoax. TOEFL, all across the globe is a standardised test. This means that the paper pattern and the content inside will be the same irrespective of the candidate’s location. In terms of checking, a standard method is followed. After the exam, all the responses are sent to New Jersey. Post this, the same is sent to graders all over the globe. However, there is no significant basis that makes TOEFL easier for some nations and tougher for other nations.

Major countries accepting TOEFL

The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is widely accepted across many universities, colleges, and institutions around the world in major countries of the world.

Some of the major countries accepting TOEFL are as follows:

•       UK

•       USA

•       Canada

•       Australia

•       New Zealand

•       Singapore

•       Germany

Major countries accepting IELTS

Unlike TOEFL, The International Language Testing System (IELTS) too is widely accepted by universities, colleges from across the world as a proof of English Proficiency. The nations accepting IELTS are as follows:

•       Canada

•       Australia

•       UK

•       USA

•       New Zealand

•       Ireland

•       Germany

•       Singapore

For further assistance or queries students can contact us, Edwise International and avail our wide range of services for students on destinations like Study in UK, Study in USA, Study in Canada, Study in Australia, Study in New-Zealand, Study in Singapore, Study in Ireland, and many other countries.