If my parents prefer the US, should I give TOEFL again since it is easier than IELTS for a Master's?
No, you should not retake TOEFL because your parents prefer the US, since almost all US universities accept TOEFL and IELTS equally. Only retake it if your score falls below the cutoff, typically 80 to 100 for TOEFL or 6.5 to 7.5 for IELTS, or you find its format easier.
Your parents' preference for the US should guide your target university list, not which English test you take. Almost every US university treats TOEFL and IELTS as interchangeable, so the real question is your current score, not the country.
TOEFL Versus IELTS For US Master's Programs
| Factor | TOEFL | IELTS |
|---|---|---|
| Format | Fully computer-based, academic listening and reading, American English | Face-to-face or video speaking interview, mix of global accents |
| University acceptance | Accepted by almost 100% of US universities | Accepted equally by almost 100% of US universities |
| Typical cutoff scores | Around 80 to 100 | Around 6.5 to 7.5 |
| Validity | 2 years | 2 years |
When A Retake Actually Makes Sense
- Retake if your current score is below your target universities' minimum cutoff
- Retake if you genuinely prefer typing answers and avoiding a live speaking interview
- Do not retake if you already have a valid, competitive score from either test
- Do not switch tests purely because the US is now your destination
My Advice
Check your existing score against your shortlisted universities' cutoffs before you book anything, since a valid IELTS score within the last 2 years works exactly as well as TOEFL for US admissions. Only spend money on a TOEFL retake if your current score is genuinely short, or if you know from experience that its format suits you better than a live speaking interview.
IELTS, PTE or Duolingo: which should you take?
Find out which test your universities accept, and which is easiest for you.
More IELTS questions
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- What are the chances of getting a conditional offer letter requiring IELTS even if I have a good 12th standard score?
- Can I study in the UK without IELTS, and which universities accept other English tests?
- Would you suggest me to give IELTS first before starting the application process in Germany/Italy for a Master's?
- Do I need to score well in GRE, GMAT, or IELTS to get good scholarships in top business schools for a MBA?
- Is it possible to get an IELTS exemption if my transcript states that my medium of instruction was English?
- Can I still take IELTS as a paper-based test?
- Will you help with the IELTS application process and provide guidance on the required documents and deposits?