IELTS or TOEFL? Convert Your Test Score Instantly
For Nigerian students applying to universities abroad and at home
Select Conversion Type
Live UpdateYour Converted Score
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Equivalent Score
Approximate range: 90-100
University Acceptance Level
English Proficiency Level
Enter your score above to see the converted equivalent
IELTS TOEFL Score Conversion Result
Generated from DeyWithMe.com/ielts-toefl-converter
Note: This conversion uses official ETS and IELTS concordance tables. Always verify with your specific university requirements.
How IELTS and TOEFL Scores Convert
As a Nigerian student applying to universities in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, or even Nigerian universities with international programs, you often face a critical question: “Should I take IELTS or TOEFL?” What makes it more confusing is that universities list requirements for both tests. This converter gives you instant clarity.
The Conversion Formula
While there’s no perfect 1:1 conversion (both tests measure English proficiency differently), the official concordance tables from ETS and IELTS provide this reliable formula:
TOEFL iBT ≈ (IELTS Band × 13.33) + 10
This formula approximates the relationship, but our calculator uses the official concordance table for precise conversions.
Who Needs This Converter?
If you’re in any of these situations, this tool was built for you:
- Nigerian students in Lagos, Abuja, or Port Harcourt deciding which English test to take for overseas applications
- Nigerian professionals in the US or Canada who took IELTS but need to understand TOEFL requirements for graduate school
- Parents in Nigeria helping their children understand university requirements in the UK or Australia
- University applicants who already have one test score and want to know if they should retake the other test
Important Tip for Nigerian Students
American universities generally prefer TOEFL, while UK, Australian, and Nigerian universities often prefer IELTS. However, most accept both. Always check your specific program’s website for their exact requirements, as some departments have higher standards than the university minimum.
When Should You Use This Conversion?
Timing matters in your application journey. Here’s when this conversion is most useful:
- Before choosing which test to take: Compare your practice test scores to see which test might give you a better result
- When university websites confuse you: Some list only IELTS or only TOEFL requirements. Convert to understand both
- After receiving your scores: Quickly check which additional universities you now qualify for
- When considering a retake: Determine if taking the other test might yield a better score
Where Do These Conversions Apply?
These conversions are recognized internationally, but their importance varies by country:
| Country | Preferred Test | Typical Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| United States | TOEFL (but IELTS accepted) | TOEFL 80-100 / IELTS 6.5-7.0 |
| Canada | Either (varies by province) | TOEFL 88-100 / IELTS 6.5-7.0 |
| United Kingdom | IELTS (but TOEFL accepted) | IELTS 6.0-7.5 / TOEFL 78-110 |
| Australia | IELTS (TOEFL for some courses) | IELTS 6.0-7.0 / TOEFL 60-94 |
| Nigeria (Int’l Programs) | IELTS (sometimes TOEFL) | IELTS 5.5-6.5 / TOEFL 70-90 |
Why Can’t Universities Just Accept One Score?
This frustration is common among Nigerian applicants. The reason is historical and practical. American universities developed TOEFL, while British and Commonwealth countries developed IELTS. Both tests have become global standards, but each has its strengths:
- TOEFL focuses on academic American English, with more multiple-choice questions and integrated tasks
- IELTS includes British and Australian accents, and has a face-to-face speaking component
- Some students perform better on one format, so universities accept both to attract diverse applicants
How to Use Your Converted Score Effectively
A converted score isn’t just a number; it’s strategic information. Here’s how to use it:
For Shortlisting Universities
If you have IELTS 6.5 (TOEFL 95), you can safely apply to universities requiring TOEFL 90-100. This expands your options without guessing.
For Test Preparation Strategy
If you’re stronger at speaking than multiple-choice, IELTS might be better. Convert your practice scores to confirm before registering.
Table of Common Score Conversions
Use this table to quickly reference common score conversions and understand what they mean for your applications:
| IELTS Band | TOEFL iBT | Proficiency Level | University Category |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9.0 | 118-120 | Expert User | Top Tier (Ivy League) |
| 8.0 | 110-114 | Very Good User | Highly Competitive |
| 7.5 | 102-109 | Good User | Most Universities |
| 7.0 | 94-101 | Good User | Most Universities |
| 6.5 | 79-93 | Competent User | Many Universities |
| 6.0 | 60-78 | Competent User | Some Universities |
| 5.5 | 46-59 | Modest User | Foundation Programs |
Final Advice for Nigerian Applicants
Remember that while this converter gives you accurate equivalencies, your actual test choice should consider:
- Your strengths: Good at interviews? IELTS speaking might be better. Prefer multiple-choice? Consider TOEFL
- Test availability: Check centers in Lagos, Abuja, or your current city abroad
- Cost and timing: Factor in test fees and result delivery times
- Specific requirements: Some programs (like Law or Medicine) might have higher requirements
Use this tool as your starting point, then verify with your target universities. Your English proficiency score is just one part of your application, but getting it right removes unnecessary stress from your study abroad journey.
