IELTS vs TOEFL for the USA: Which Test Should You Choose?
US universitiesAdmissions offices
- IELTS
- AcceptedWidely accepted
- TOEFL iBT
- Accepted
US universities widely accept both tests. A US student visa does not require an English test.
University Acceptance in USA
Over 3,400 US institutions accept IELTS, including all Ivy League universities. However, TOEFL remains the more commonly requested test. Typical requirements: IELTS 6.5-7.0 or TOEFL iBT 80-100. Top-tier universities (MIT, Stanford, Harvard) often require IELTS 7.0+ or TOEFL 100+.
Score Requirements in USA
University admission: IELTS 6.5-7.0 or TOEFL iBT 80-100. Graduate programs: IELTS 7.0+ or TOEFL 100+. Community colleges: IELTS 5.5-6.0 or TOEFL 61-79.
Typical published requirements. Programmes and visa routes change, so confirm yours on the official site.