test written on a board

IELTS vs TOEFL: Which Is Easier? Alternatives for Int’l Students

Taking an IELTS or TOEFL test is often mandatory for foreigners looking to study in or relocate to an English-speaking country. The English language proficiency requirement demonstrates proficiency in speaking, writing, listening, and reading. However, you can still secure admission into a university in Canada, the United States, or any country whose official language is English without meeting this requirement.

Several universities and countries, such as the UK, waive the English language proficiency requirement for international students or allow them to fulfil this criterion through other means. The thing is, many prospective internship students are often doubtful about taking this exam, with concerns about whether to take the IELTS or TOEFL exam. For some students, passing either of the exams is the hardest part, while for others, their main concern is choosing which one has a higher reputation.

Read on to explore further details about these two English language tests and how we, at DexTravl, can help you ace them.

Why IELTS or TOEFL is necessary?

  • It’s a vital requirement for international students to study abroad in many English-speaking countries. With your text report, you can show that you’ve met the admissions and visa requirements.
  • Taking the exam shows whether you may struggle starting an English-taught program overseas.
  • Your test results may also qualify you for jobs with some employers in the country where you’re studying.

Countries that accept international students without IELTS or TOEFL

To study in any of the countries listed below, you won’t have to take an IELTS or TOEFL exam:

1. Canada

Top recommended universities:

  • University of Saskatchewan
  • Brock University
  • Memorial University of Newfoundland
  • University of Winnipeg

2. France

Consider applying to:

  • University of Paris
  • American Business School Paris
  • EBS Paris
  • University of Strasbourg
  • INSEEC Business School

3. USA

Top universities to choose from:

  • University of New Orleans
  • Drexel University
  • University of Arkansas
  • Portland State University
  • University of Colorado

4. Norway

Best options:

  • University of Bergen
  • Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU)
  • University of Oslo

5. Germany

Great university options:

  • University of Siegen
  • University of Kaiserslautern
  • Ruhr University Bochum

Alternative ways to satisfy English proficiency test requirements

Some countries and universities have various ways for students and prospective immigrants to meet the language proficiency requirement, as follows:

1. O’level results, like your WAEC or NECO result:

If you have a good grade in your WAEC or NECO English language course, many universities can waive the IELTS or TOEFL requirements for you. Just make sure you score at least C6 or above in English.

2. Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate:

You can also request an MOI certificate from one of the previous institutions you attended in place of taking the IELTS or TOEFL test. The certificate proves that your already obtained degree or certificate was conducted entirely in English.

3. Other standardised tests:

IELTS and TOEFL are not the only language tests to demonstrate English skills proficiency. You can register online for the Pearson Test of English (PTE) or Duolingo English Test.

4. Internal assessments:

Depending on availability at the institution, you may need to participate in their own English proficiency tests or interviews. It is often part of the admission process, making it an effortless way of meeting the English language proficiency requirement.

When you work with a trusted study abroad agency like DexTravl, meeting the English language proficiency requirements will no longer cause you hassles. We’ll provide guidelines on passing the IELTS or TOEFL exam.

Our education consultants will also assess your documentation and eligibility for other alternatives.