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IELTS or TOEIC - What is the Difference


There is often some confusion about what distinguishes these two courses. Here we attempt to explain the differences to help students make their decision between the two:

IELTS is an internationally recognised English proficiency assessment required for university entrance to English speaking universities worldwide, and tertiary institutions in English speaking countries. The results are also required for residency purposes by Immigration New Zealand. The exam tests all four skill areas: reading, writing, speaking and listening.

TOEIC is quite different as it is an assessment designed to show a persons ability to use and understand English in a workplace situation. The results are the entrance requirements in many international high schools in Korea and are often required by Asian employers. TOEIC tests only your reading and listening skills.