TOEFL and IELTS are two kinds of English tests that are recognized internationally. They test the proficiency of a person’s ability to speak English. In other countries, IELTS and TOEFL are required from students that are from other countries in order to see how well they can speak English. Other companies that take in Online English Teacher would prefer to hire someone who already passed the IELTS and the TOEFL.

But what are these anyway? What do the IELTS and TOEFL do for you? Is it required? How do the TOEFL and IELTS give you a competitive edge?

What is IELTS?

IELTS stands for International English Language Testing System which tests people who don’t have English as their native language. For those who are planning to work abroad where English is the native language, they need this in order to be considered for a job. International companies that offer English lessons to foreign language students also require this as to certify that the person is truly capable of speaking English.

What is TOEFL?

TOEFL is known as the Test of English as a Foreign Language. For those who are planning to study abroad in a place where English is a native language, they have to take this. This is also to make sure that during the transition into another university there will be little miscommunication. Also, this will help in legalizing documents and a person’s stay in that particular country.

Why do some Filipinos still have to take these tests even if they grew up speaking English?

By law, the Philippines’ native language is Filipino. Legally speaking, this would mean that a Filipino student still needs to take the TOEFL or IELTS as a means to verify their capacity to speak English. Some countries such as Britain still need that particular test to see if the student can adjust to the culture. Also, there are different kinds of English. Filipinos grew up with the American system of English which can be quite confusing with certain spellings. For example, in America – the word color is spelled without an “u” whereas in Britain there is. For those planning to work in a job that involves writing, this can affect SEO and the article’s ability to drive in traffic.

How do IELTS and TOEFL give you a competitive edge?

Asides from it helping you to live abroad, it gives you an extra edge for you when you apply to international companies. In the Philippines, there are many international companies. And some of these international companies look for English teachers. When a person applies, they will ask if someone has a TOEFL or an IELTS. Though not necessarily a requirement, it’ll help in the screening process and give you a better chance of getting the job.

Some jobs such as being an English teacher in Japan require you to take the TOEFL and IELTS. Since the Japanese are competitive about how good your English is, they will look at your scores there as a standard measurement as to how good your English is.

How do you apply to take the TOEFL or the IELTS?

Before you take the TOEFL or IELTS, you have to register on the website. Check out the links for both the TOEFL or the IELTS:

TOEFLIELTS

Here in AHEAD, we offer reviews for those who want to take the exam. Whether it’s for their own personal development, for kicks, or what not, we help our students become efficient and capable in speaking professional English. If you want to take a review for the IELTS and TOEFL, you can email us at pro@ahead.edu.ph! We offer IELTS and TOEFL online too! If you want it online, email us at online@ahead.edu.ph!