TOEFL iBT vs TOEFL Essentials: Which One is Best for You in 2025?

Administered by ETS, the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) iBT and TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) Essentials are two distinct English proficiency tests, each catering to different academic and professional needs. 

As of 2025, over 13,000 institutions globally accept the TOEFL iBT, making it an essential factor for university admissions. 

Meanwhile, the TOEFL Essentials test, introduced more recently, offers a shorter, adaptive format blending 50% academic and 50% general English content. This helps learners who are seeking flexibility and efficiency. 

Below is a structured comparison of TOEFL iBT vs TOEFL, their exam pattern, scoring, acceptance, and suitability.

TOEFL iBT vs TOEFL: A Comprehensive Overview

TOEFL iBT is the traditional version of the test. It's widely accepted by universities worldwide and is considered a comprehensive measure of your English proficiency. It tests all four skills, reading, writing, speaking, and listening, over 2 hours. 

In contrast,  TOEFL Essentials has been introduced to offer a more accessible testing option for students. The test takes only about 1.5 hours to complete and is designed for students who don't need to meet the high-stakes requirements of the iBT.

Key Differences:

1. Test Duration: TOEFL iBT takes roughly 4 hours, while TOEFL Essentials lasts about 1.5 hours.
2. Score Reporting: The iBT provides detailed scores for each section; TOEFL Essentials gives a more general score range.
3. Acceptance: TOEFL iBT is accepted by all universities and institutions that require English proficiency. TOEFL Essentials is accepted by fewer universities, mostly for undergraduate programs.

Let's break down these tests in more detail to help you decide which one fits your goals.

What is TOEFL iBT? Key Insights

The TOEFL iBT evaluates your ability to use and understand English at a university level, ensuring that you can succeed in an academic environment where English is the primary language of instruction.

Its exam syllabus is designed to mimic real-life academic tasks. Understanding the test's structure, availability, and logistics is essential for anyone planning to take the exam.

Below are the details of the TOEFL iBT exam:

Criteria	Component	Details
Test Format and Skills Tested	Four sections:  Reading Listening Speaking Writing	Assesses academic English skills through integrated tasks reflecting real-life university situations The total test time is about 2 hours.
Availability and Cost	Offered more than 170 times a year worldwide	Available throughout the year. Fees vary by country as of 2024.
	Registration fee	Typical fees range from INR 16,900 to INR 5,900
Location of Test Centers	Global network of test centers and at-home option	Over 4,500 test centers in 200 countries; also available as Home Edition in most regions for added convenience.

On the other hand, TOEFL Essentials is a newer, shorter, and less expensive version of the TOEFL iBT. Let's take a closer look at its details.

What are TOEFL Essentials? An In-Depth Review

Designed with flexibility, TOEFL Essentials evaluates the same four skills, but in a more condensed format, making it an appealing choice for those seeking a faster and more affordable option.

It is geared towards students applying to undergraduate programs or institutions that don't require the full TOEFL iBT scores. It’s also perfect for students who need a less demanding test format but still want a credible language proficiency assessment.

Here are the in-depth details of the TOEFL Essentials:

Criteria	Component	Details
Test Format and Skills Tested	Listening (21-34 min, adaptive)	Short conversations and academic talks adjust difficulty based on responses.
	Reading (22-33 min, adaptive)	Academic and general texts  Multiple-choice questions Adaptive format
	Writing (24-30 min, 2 tasks)	Writing sample (build a sentence) and a longer response (75-100 words).
Availability and Cost	Speaking (13 min, 3 tasks)	Personal ideas  Role-play scenarios Academic summaries
	Exam Conduction	Available frequently as an online test (Home Edition only).
	TOEFL Essentials Exam Fee	INR 8,300- INR 10,000 (varies by country).
	Location of Test Centers	Conducted online from home; no physical test centers required.
Countries	Not applicable (online only)	Accessible globally.
Cities in India	Not applicable (online only)	It can be taken from any location with reliable internet.

Now that you've covered the exam structures, fees, and exam centers, let's specifically compare TOEFL iBT vs TOEFL Essentials to help you decide which test is right for you.

Difference Between TOEFL iBT and TOEFL: Key Distinctions

Accepted by over 13,000 institutions across 200+ countries, including the USA, UK, Canada, Spain, Japan, and France, the TOEFL exam has opened doors to a wide range of English-speaking programs. 

With more than 40 million test-takers globally, it is a trusted benchmark for English proficiency. When deciding between TOEFL iBT vs TOEFL Essentials, understanding the distinct differences in examination structure, scoring, duration, fee, delivery mode, and reporting is essential. 

These factors can significantly affect which test better suits your goals. Let’s explore each key area and break down the comparison with detailed tables for a clearer understanding.

TOEFL iBT Vs TOEFL: Examination Structure

The structure varies depending on the exam pattern you choose. TOEFL iBT has a 2-hour duration and is the most widely used version. Both exams feature a specific sequence of sections and question types designed to measure academic English skills. 

Here's how they differ based on examination structure:

Parameter	TOEFL iBT	TOEFL (Paper Edition)
Sections	Reading Listening Speaking Writing	Reading  Listening Writing Speaking
Speaking Section	Included (4 tasks)	NA
Task Complexity	Advanced academic tasks	Simplified tasks suitable for undergraduates
Question Types	Integrated and independent tasks	Only independent tasks

Now, let's explore the differences in evaluation, including the score range and calculation methods.

TOEFL iBT Vs TOEFL: Scoring and Evaluation

Scoring in TOEFL iBT and TOEFL Paper Edition follows a standardized system to assess performance in each section and overall proficiency. Understanding ETS's score calculation and reporting helps candidates set realistic goals and interpret their results accurately.

Here's how they differ based on scoring and evaluation:

Parameter	TOEFL iBT	TOEFL
Score Range	Scored out of 120 points	A total score on a scale of 1–12.
Section Scoring	Each of the four sections contributes 0-30 points to the total score	Each section is scored from 1-12
Overall Score	The overall score ranges from 0 to 120	The overall score ranges from 1 to 12
Evaluation Method	Aims to directly and comprehensively measure communicative language ability in an academic setting.	Certified human raters initially evaluate writing and speaking tasks.
Score Validity	2 years	2 years
Result Time	4–8 days	5-6 days

TOEFL iBT Vs TOEFL: Time Duration

The duration of the two tests reflects their overall complexity and depth. TOEFL iBT lasts significantly longer, typically around 4 hours, whereas TOEFL Essentials is designed for a faster experience, usually taking about 1.5 hours.

Here's how they differ:

Aspects	TOEFL iBT	TOEFL Essentials
Total Duration	About 2 hours	About 1.5 hours
Breaks	10-minute break	No break
Section Duration	60-100 minutes per section	10-20 minutes per section

You also need to convert your TOEFL scores to meet certain admission requirements. The TOEFL to TOEFL iBT Score Calculator helps you convert your score, expanding your university options effortlessly!

TOEFL iBT Vs TOEFL: Fee Structure

The TOEFL exam fee for both is critical for students, especially when considering a more affordable option. TOEFL iBT is the more expensive test due to its comprehensive nature and longer duration.

TOEFL Essentials is cheaper and designed for students who want a more budget-friendly option. Here’s how the fee structure works for both:

Feature	TOEFL iBT	TOEFL Essentials
Test Fee	Typical fees range from INR 16.9K to INR 5.9K	INR 8.3K- INR 10K (varies by country).
Additional Fees (Score Reports)	INR 1,000 per report (additional reports)	Lower additional report fees

TOEFL Essentials can be a viable alternative for students on a tight budget, providing a valid English proficiency score without the hefty price tag of the traditional TOEFL iBT.

TOEFL iBT vs TOEFL: Test Format and Mode of Delivery

Both TOEFL iBT and TOEFL Essentials are delivered online, but the overall format and question types differ.  TOEFL iBT requires a computer and headset to complete the test, whereas TOEFL Essentials can be completed on a computer or other devices with the appropriate setup.

Here’s the comparison in detail:

Feature	TOEFL iBT	TOEFL Essentials
Mode of Delivery	Online (computer-based)	Online (computer-based, flexible device usage)
Test Structure	More academically based tasks	Simplified, general tasks
Technical Requirements	Computer, headphones, mic	Same, but a more flexible setup

TOEFL iBT vs TOEFL: Score Review Policy

TOEFL iBT offers the option to request a score review if you’re not satisfied with your performance. TOEFL Essentials generally does not allow for the same detailed review process. 

Score reviews can be crucial for students who feel their performance was affected by technical issues or stress during the test. 

Have a look at how policy differs for both:

Feature	TOEFL iBT	TOEFL Essentials
Score Review Availability	Available within 3 months of the test	Not available
Cost for Review	Additional fee (INR 5K approx.)	N/A

TOEFL iBT vs TOEFL: Score Report Sending Options

Both TOEFL iBT and TOEFL Essentials allow you to send your scores to universities, but the sending options and fees differ.

TOEFL iBT allows you to send your scores to up to four institutions for free, with additional reports costing extra. TOEFL Essentials offers fewer free score reports, with additional fees for extra report requests.

Here’s how it differs based on the report sending choices:

Feature	TOEFL iBT	TOEFL Essentials
Free Score Reports	4 institutions (initially)	2 institutions (initially)
Additional Score Reports	INR 1,000 per report	Lower cost for additional reports

After comparing how TOEFL iBT and TOEFL differ in their exam methods, let's examine how they apply to visa applications.

TOEFL iBT vs TOEFL: Which One is Better for Visa Applications?

If you're applying for immigration, TOEFL iBT is the better choice, especially for countries like Canada, where it is accepted for permanent residency (PR) and work visas. The TOEFL, on the other hand, is mainly accepted by universities for obtaining a study visa.

Here's how TOEFL iBT vs TOEFL differ in visa applications:

Parameter	TOEFL iBT	TOEFL
Visa Types Accepted	Accepted for a wide range of visa types, including student visas	Accepted for some students and other visa types, but not as widely recognized as the TOEFL iBT.
Immigration Approval	Widely accepted for immigration purposes in countries like Canada and Australia.	Not widely accepted for immigration purposes.
Test Type for Visa	A primary English proficiency test for visa applications, including student, work, and PR visas in multiple countries.	Primarily recognized for academic admissions rather than visa applications. Limited use for visa purposes.
Government Recognition	Recognized by governments worldwide, including the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.	Limited government recognition for visa or immigration purposes.
UK Student Visa Requirement	Accepted for UK Student Visa (Student Route, formerly Tier 4) under specific conditions.	Not accepted for UK Student Visa (Student Route) applications.

After exploring their features, structure, and role in migration, let's see which countries accept the TOEFL iBT and the TOEFL.

TOEFL iBT vs TOEFL Essentials: Where Are These Tests Accepted?

The TOEFL iBT, widely accepted for academic, visa, and immigration purposes, is recognized by over 13,000 institutions globally. In contrast, TOEFL Essentials is mainly used for academic admissions and has limited recognition for official processes.

Below is a detailed overview of the TOEFL accepted countries:

Which Countries Accept TOEFL iBT?

The TOEFL iBT is widely accepted for academic admissions, visa applications, and immigration in countries such as the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand. Minimum score requirements range from 80 to 90 in the U.S. and 72 to 90 in the UK, depending on the university and program.

Here are some countries accepting the TOEFL iBT:

Country Accepting TOEFL iBT	Minimum Score for Undergraduate	Minimum Score for Postgraduate
United States	80 (varies widely; some universities require 61-100)	90 (varies; top universities often require 100+)
United Kingdom	72-80 (often aligned with CEFR B2 for visa purposes)	80-90 (higher for competitive programs)
Canada	80-86 (varies by university; often 20 per section)	90-100 (higher for graduate programs)
Australia	72-79 (varies; often tied to visa requirements)	80-90 (higher for professional degrees)
New Zealand	72-80 (aligned with university and visa standards)	80-90 (varies by program)
Ireland	72-80 (often CEFR B2 equivalent for admissions)	80-90 (higher for research programs)
Germany	72-80 (varies; some programs may require less)	80-90 (often higher for English-taught programs)
Singapore	80-85 (varies by university)	90-100 (higher for competitive programs)
UAE	61-80 (varies by institution)	80-90 (higher for graduate studies)
France	72-80 (for English-taught programs)	80-90 (varies by program)

Note: The listed scores are general benchmarks and may not be applicable to all institutions or programs. Some universities or visa processes may require higher scores or specific section minimums.

Which Countries Accept TOEFL Essentials?

The TOEFL Essentials is necessary for university admissions in countries like the U.S. and Canada. Top institutions like MIT and Harvard accept it for competitive programs, such as computer science. 

Here are some countries accepting the TOEFL: 

Country Accepting TOEFL Essentials	Minimum Score for Undergraduate	Minimum Score for Postgraduate
United States	8.0-9.0 (varies by universities, broadly accepted for admissions)	9.0-10.0 (varies by universities; higher for competitive programs)
United Kingdom	8.0-9.0 (limited acceptance by universities; not for visa)	9.0-10.0 (limited acceptance; varies by program)
Canada	8.0-9.0 (accepted by some universities)	9.0-10.0 (varies by institution)
Australia	8.0-9.0 (limited acceptance by universities)	9.0-10.0 (varies by universities; limited use)
New Zealand	8.0-9.0 (accepted by select institutions)	9.0-10.0 (varies by program)
Ireland	8.0-9.0 (limited acceptance by universities)	9.0-10.0 (varies by universities; limited use)
Germany	8.0-9.0 (accepted by some universities for English-taught programs)	9.0-10.0 (varies by program)
Singapore	8.0-9.0 (limited acceptance by universities like NUS)	9.0-10.0 (higher for competitive programs)
UAE	8.0-9.0 (accepted by some institutions)	9.0-10.0 (varies by program)
France	8.0-9.0 (limited acceptance for English-taught programs)	9.0-10.0 (varies by institution)

Note: The scores and acceptance listed are based on general trends and may not apply to all institutions or programs. Many universities in these countries may not yet accept TOEFL Essentials or may require additional tests

After listing the countries that accept TOEFL iBT and TOEFL, let's now explore the key factors influencing which exam might be easier for you.

TOEFL iBT vs Essentials: How to Choose the Right One

Choosing between TOEFL iBT vs TOEFL Essentials depends on several factors, such as your academic goals, budget, and the specific requirements of your target institutions.

If you plan to apply to highly competitive graduate schools, TOEFL iBT is often the better choice because it provides a more detailed assessment of your English skills. The right choice isn’t always straightforward, so weighing some critical factors carefully is essential.

Here is a snapshot of factors to consider when choosing between TOEFL iBT vs TOEFL Essentials:

Factor	TOEFL iBT	TOEFL Essentials
Academic Goals	Ideal for students aiming for graduate or competitive programs.	Suitable for undergraduate programs and less competitive institutions.
Test Duration	2 hours (more comprehensive).	1.5 hours (faster, more streamlined).
Cost	16.9K to INR 5.9K (higher fee).	INR 8.3K- INR 10K (more affordable).
Required Score	Higher scores may be required for top universities.	Generally, less demanding in terms of score.
Availability & Acceptance	Accepted by all institutions worldwide, including top-tier ones.	Accepted by fewer institutions, mainly undergraduate programs.

Now that you have a clearer idea of the factors to consider while choosing one, let’s see which might be the easiest.

Which One is Easier? TOEFL iBT or TOEFL Essentials?

When choosing between TOEFL iBT vs TOEFL Essentials, ease is subjective. It all depends on your goals, academic requirements, and what you aim for in terms of your future career or educational path.

While TOEFL iBT is more comprehensive, TOEFL Essentials is designed for students who want a quicker and more affordable test. So, what’s easier for one student might be a different story for another.

Look for a balanced perspective: 

• TOEFL iBT is undoubtedly more challenging, but it's also a better fit for students planning to study at top universities or pursue competitive academic programs abroad. 
• TOEFL Essentials offers a faster and less expensive alternative, making it a good choice for those applying to universities with less stringent English proficiency requirements.

Who Should Consider TOEFL iBT?

• Students applying for graduate programs or top-tier universities.
• Those aiming for highly competitive fields such as medicine, law, or business.
• Students who need a detailed score breakdown for specific academic strengths and weaknesses.

Who Should Consider TOEFL Essentials:

• Students applying to undergraduate programs or less competitive institutions.
• Those with a limited budget or time constraints.
• Students looking for a simpler, faster, and cheaper option that still demonstrates basic English proficiency.

Eventually, both tests, administered by ETS, assess English proficiency but cater to different needs and can be accepted in varying contexts. 

Next, let's explore other available English proficiency tests.

Is it Possible to Study Abroad Without TOEFL iBT or TOEFL Essentials?

Over 5,500 universities and institutions worldwide now list the Duolingo test as an option, and many schools in popular study destinations like the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia, Germany, and the Netherlands recognize it.

Thus, studying abroad is possible without taking the TOEFL iBT or TOEFL Essentials. However, the feasibility depends on your destination, institution, program, and personal circumstances. 

Common Alternatives to TOEFL iBT and TOEFL:

• IELTS (International English Language Testing System): Accepted in the UK, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and many other countries. Over 4,000 universities worldwide accept IELTS scores.
• PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English): Widely accepted in Australia, the UK, and increasingly in the US and Canada.
• Cambridge English Exams: Includes CAE (C1 Advanced) and CPE (C2 Proficiency). Recognized by many universities in Europe and the UK.
• Duolingo English Test (DET): Accepted by over 4,000 institutions globally, including some top U.S. and Canadian universities.

Note:
The feasibility of skipping TOEFL depends on:

• The admission policy of the university
• The country’s visa rules
• Whether the program is taught in English
• If you have prior education in English (some universities waive the test in such cases)

Now, let’s explore alternative exams you can take besides the TOEFL, which isn’t necessary.

Which Countries Don't Require TOEFL iBT or TOEFL?

Other than TOEFL accepted countries, many other countries and universities worldwide accept alternative English proficiency exams like IELTS, PTE, and more, for academic admissions and, in some cases, visa applications. 

These alternatives are recognized by numerous institutions across English-speaking and non-English-speaking regions that offer English-taught programs.

Here are some countries that do not require the TOEFL iBT or TOEFL:

Country	University	Alternative ELP Exams
United States	Harvard University	IELTS Duolingo English Test (limited programs)
	University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)	IELTS Duolingo English Test
United Kingdom	University of Oxford	IELTS Cambridge English (CAE/CPE)
	University College London (UCL)	IELTS PTE Academic Cambridge English
Canada	University of Toronto	IELTS PTE Academic Duolingo English Test
	University of British Columbia (UBC)	IELTS CAEL Duolingo English Test
Australia	University of Melbourne	IELTS PTE Academic
	Australian National University (ANU)	IELTS PTE Academic Cambridge English
New Zealand	University of Auckland	IELTS PTE Academic Cambridge English
	University of Otago	IELTS PTE Academic
Ireland	Trinity College Dublin	IELTS Duolingo English Test Cambridge English
	University College Dublin (UCD)	IELTS PTE Academic
Singapore	National University of Singapore (NUS)	IELTS PTE Academic
	Nanyang Technological University (NTU)	IELTS PTE Academic
UAE	Khalifa University	IELTS PTE Academic
	American University of Sharjah	IELTS Duolingo English Test
France	Sorbonne University (English-taught programs)	IELTS Cambridge English

Note: Exam acceptance varies by program and may change. Always check with the university or its official website. Visa rules may require specific tests.

Though optional in many countries, TOEFL/TOEFL iBT is still widely accepted, making preparation key. Here’s how upGrad helps you score high.

How Can upGrad Help You Prepare for TOEFL iBT and TOEFL?

upGrad offers structured TOEFL iBT and Essentials prep with expert guidance, tailored strategies, and real test simulations. Along with career counseling and study-abroad insights, you'll get the support needed to align your scores with university requirements. You can also explore the right test option through personalized one-on-one sessions.

Confused about choosing between TOEFL iBT and TOEFL Essentials for studying abroad? upGrad's free one-on-one counselling session helps you choose the right exam or explore alternatives based on your target universities and scores. Get expert guidance to maximize your chances of admission!