What is the Difference Between TOEFL and TOEIC?

The main difference between TOEFL and TOEIC lies in the context in which they measure English proficiency. The TOEIC measures the ability to work in English, while the TOEFL measures the ability to take university courses in English. Here are some key differences between the two tests:

1. Purpose: The TOEIC is designed for the job market and is commonly used to assess the English proficiency of professionals in international workplaces. The TOEFL, on the other hand, is primarily used for academic purposes, such as admission to English-speaking universities or study abroad programs.
2. Test Format: The TOEFL has four sections: reading, listening, speaking, and writing, and is taken exclusively on the computer. The TOEIC is divided into two separate but complementary exams: the Reading and Listening Test, which is a paper-and-pencil test, and the Speaking and Writing tests, which are online.
3. Skills Measured: The TOEIC focuses on listening and reading skills, making it considered easier than the TOEFL. The TOEFL, however, tests all four language skills: reading, listening, speaking, and writing.
4. Target Audience: The TOEIC is more popular in France, Japan, and South Korea, where it is widely used in the job market. The TOEFL is widely accepted by universities and institutions worldwide for academic purposes.

In summary, the TOEIC is more suitable for professionals who need to demonstrate their English proficiency in a work context, while the TOEFL is better suited for students who plan to study in an English-speaking academic environment.

Comparative Table: TOEFL vs TOEIC

Here is a table comparing the differences between the TOEFL and TOEIC tests:

The main differences between the TOEFL and TOEIC tests are their purposes and target audiences. The TOEFL is designed for students applying to universities and measures their academic English skills, while the TOEIC is focused on professional settings and assesses English-language skills for the workplace.