TOEIC to IELTS: How to Convert Your Score Accurately

TOEIC and IELTS are among the most widely recognized English proficiency tests worldwide. While both exams assess English language skills, they differ in format, scoring system, and purpose. IELTS is graded on a 9.0-band scale, whereas TOEIC has a maximum score of 990. This raises an important question: How can you convert a TOEIC to IELTS or vice versa? If you're trying to determine your equivalent IELTS score based on your TOEIC results, this article from prepedu.com has all the answers.

I. Comparing TOEIC and IELTS: Similarities & Differences

Both TOEIC and IELTS have their distinct characteristics, despite both being English proficiency tests. Additionally, each TOEIC score equivalent to ielts is determined based on the difficulty level of the tests. However, with proper guidance, converting TOEIC to IELTS can be quite straightforward, making it easier for you to set appropriate goals. Let's look at their similarities and differences.

1. Similarities

• Both are important exams that evaluate language proficiency across all four skills: Listening, Speaking, Reading, and Writing.

• Both certificates are valid for two years from the date of the examination.

• Both use internationally standardized scoring systems to assess test-takers' skill levels.

2. Differences

The International English Testing System, commonly known as IELTS, focuses on testing candidates' English proficiency in an academic environment. IELTS is particularly important in technology, medicine, and environmental fields. It's generally the best choice for undergraduate or postgraduate students.

Test of English for International Communication, or TOEIC, is an English communication test. Therefore, TOEIC candidates shouldn't focus too heavily on academic aspects. Instead, they should concentrate on developing communication skills in fields such as business, economics, and commerce. All these professions require strong communication skills and creative expression.

Additionally, there are four main differences between IELTS and TOEIC:

• Standardized scoring systems and evaluation criteria

• Target audiences

• Test structures

• Time regulations and examination fees

Despite these differences, TOEIC to IELTS score conversion methods have been researched based on both scoring scales and proficiency levels. 

II. Scoring Methods for TOEIC and IELTS

1. TOEIC Scoring Method

The standard TOEIC exam structure includes two sections: Reading and Listening. The combined listening and reading scores determine the final test score. The maximum score for the entire TOEIC test is 495 + 495 = 990 points. The maximum score for the Listening section is 495, and the maximum score for the Reading section is also 495.

Your TOEIC score isn't reduced for incorrect answers, so you shouldn't leave any questions blank. TOEIC scores are determined by the number of questions you answer correctly. Generally, the more correct answers you provide, the higher your score.

Furthermore, although the TOEIC scale is 990 points, the scores from two separate tests aren't always comparable. According to ETS (the organization that develops TOEIC exams), each test contains both simple and difficult questions, so naturally, different questions carry different point values: correctly answering an easy question earns fewer points than correctly answering a difficult one.

2. IELTS Scoring Method

You should know that there's no pass or fail in the IELTS exam. Instead, each candidate receives a Certificate of Results, clearly showing the overall score and average scores for each test section.

The overall test score is based on the average of the four skills—Listening, Speaking, Reading, and Writing—on the IELTS scale, which ranges from 1 to 9. The result sheet clearly displays the score for each test section for easy reference.

When averaging the four skills:

• If the average has a decimal of .25, it will be rounded up to .5.

• If the average has a decimal of .75, it will be rounded up to 1.0.

There are two IELTS test options: Academic and General Training. The difficulty levels differ between these two types. Therefore, the scoring scale also varies depending on the format.

III. Latest TOEIC to IELTS Conversion Chart

1. TOEIC to IELTS Score Conversion Chart for 2023

First, we need to clarify that there's no absolute comparison or conversion method from TOEIC to IELTS. In terms of testing format, duration, and content requirements, these two certification tests are completely different. Therefore, the TOEIC to IELTS conversion chart below is for reference only. Of course, you can also use this chart to convert IELTS to TOEIC scores if needed.

The highest TOEIC score is 990, and the highest IELTS score is 9.0. Now let's look at the most updated guide on how to convert TOEIC scores to IELTS:

2. Can a TOEIC Certificate Replace an IELTS Certificate?

In practice, the choice between IELTS and TOEIC certificates depends on your purpose and where you intend to submit your language certificate. Some places accept both, which means you can take either one, and TOEIC can replace IELTS if you don't have an IELTS certificate. You can then use the TOEIC to IELTS score conversion chart to determine an appropriate goal for yourself.

You should identify your objectives, current proficiency level, and future direction to make an easier decision. What will you do with that certificate? What level are you currently at? How long will it take you to master English?

• For domestic university admissions: Both TOEIC and IELTS are accepted. Currently, if you have a TOEIC certificate with a score of 450-650 (depending on the educational institution), you may be exempted from studying and taking English exams at some universities in Vietnam. However, you should review the policies and registration regulations of each school to update information and prepare for the appropriate certificate exam.

• For studying abroad or immigrating: IELTS certificates are still preferred in these cases. Students can choose between IELTS Academic or IELTS General Training, depending on whether their goal is immigration or studying abroad.

  • IELTS Academic: This is an entry certificate accepted worldwide for undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. Therefore, you need IELTS Academic if you wish to study and research abroad.

  • IELTS General Training: This certificate doesn't have high knowledge requirements as it assesses the ability to communicate in English in everyday life. Therefore, this certificate is suitable for people preparing to go abroad to pursue lower-level higher education, such as high school, vocational training, or immigration.

• For applying to multinational companies or positions requiring foreign language skills: In Vietnam, most businesses only require TOEIC; however, if you want to work for a foreign company or a global corporation, a strong IELTS score will attract more recruiters.

So, between TOEIC and IELTS, which is better for job interviews? Each test has its strengths, depending on the purpose as well as individual needs, academic abilities, and financial capacity. If you're still unsure whether to study for TOEIC or IELTS, you can check out prepedu.com's TOEIC courses and IELTS courses.

In conclusion, both TOEIC and IELTS certificates have their own value and purpose. There are places where you can substitute IELTS with TOEIC because they accept both certificates. You can use the TOEIC to IELTS conversion chart to set a target score similar to what they require. But there are also cases where only one of the two is accepted, and you simply have to accept this and arrange time to study and take the test.

Thus, prepedu.com has shared guidelines for converting TOEIC to IELTS scores in cases where you want to evaluate your ability and the purpose of using both certificates. If you have any questions about how to convert TOEIC to IELTS, please leave them in the comments, and PREP will provide detailed and specific answers. We wish you a successful exam that meets your expectations!