A common concern among international applicants is whether US universities prefer TOEFL or IELTS. The short answer is: most accept both, and neither is universally favored. However, historical trends and institutional habits can influence perception.
The question often arises because the TOEFL was developed in the US and has long been the default English proficiency test for American institutions. As a result, some admissions offices are more familiar with TOEFL scoring. That said, over 4,000 US universities—including Ivy League schools like Yale, Columbia, and Stanford—officially accept both the scores without preference.
Factors Influencing Acceptance and Perception
When evaluating, universities focus on whether the score meets their minimum requirement—not which test you took. For example, a TOEFL iBT score of 80–100 typically aligns with an IELTS band of 6.5–7.0. Both demonstrate sufficient English proficiency for academic success.
However, subtle differences exist. The formats vary: TOEFL is fully computer-based with multiple-choice questions, while IELTS includes a face-to-face speaking interview and handwritten essays (in the paper version). Some students perform better on one format due to personal strengths.
A few universities—often smaller liberal arts colleges or specialized programs—may list only TOEFL on their websites. But this usually reflects tradition, not policy. Always verify directly with the admissions office. In most cases, submitting TOEFL or IELTS will not disadvantage your application.
It is also worth noting that some institutions now accept alternative tests like Duolingo English Test, especially post-pandemic. Still, TOEFL and IELTS remain the gold standards for credibility.
In conclusion, US universities generally do not have a strong institutional preference between TOEFL or IELTS. Choose the test that suits your communication style and preparation strengths. Focus on achieving a competitive score, as that matters far more than the test name.