Why English Tests Matter
For Nigerians who want to study, work, or move abroad, proof of English proficiency is usually required. The two most recognized tests worldwide are:
- IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
- TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
These tests are accepted by universities, immigration offices, and professional organizations in the UK, US, Canada, Australia, Germany, and more.
When Do Nigerians Need IELTS or TOEFL?
- Studying abroad (Undergraduate, Masters, PhDs)
- Skilled migration (e.g., Canada Express Entry, Australia PR)
- Work visa applications
- Professional licensing (Nursing, Engineering, Medicine)
- Scholarship applications (Commonwealth, Chevening, Erasmus)
IELTS vs. TOEFL: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | IELTS | TOEFL |
|---|---|---|
| Full Form | International English Language Testing System | Test of English as a Foreign Language |
| Accepted In | UK, Canada, Australia, NZ, EU, US | USA, Canada, EU, Asia, Australia |
| Test Types | Academic / General | Academic only |
| Test Format | Paper-based or Computer-based | Fully Internet-based (iBT) |
| Sections | Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking | Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing |
| Speaking Section | Face-to-face with examiner | Recorded (computer-based) |
| Scoring Range | 0–9 (each band) | 0–120 (each section scored 0–30) |
| Duration | 2 hrs 45 mins | About 3 hrs |
| Test Frequency | Multiple times monthly | Weekly (internet-based) |
| Test Centers in Nigeria | Lagos, Abuja, Ibadan, Benin, Port Harcourt | Lagos, Abuja, Enugu, Jos |
Which Test Should Nigerians Take?
Take IELTS if:
- You’re applying to the UK, Canada, or Australia
- You prefer face-to-face speaking tests
- You’re applying for immigration or PR
- You’re more comfortable with British English
Take TOEFL if:
- You’re applying to the United States
- You prefer a fully online test experience
- You’re better at computer-based exams
- You’re targeting STEM-focused universities
Test Costs in Nigeria (2025)
| Test Type | Approximate Cost (₦) |
|---|---|
| IELTS Academic | ₦139,000 – ₦180,000 |
| IELTS General | ₦139,000 – ₦180,000 |
| TOEFL iBT | ₦130,000 – ₦170,000 |
Prices may vary by test center, city, and exchange rate.
Where to Register in Nigeria
IELTS Nigeria
- www.ielts.ng
- Test centers: British Council, MOD Education
TOEFL Nigeria
- www.ets.org/toefl
- Prometric test centers (Lagos, Abuja, Enugu)
Score Requirements by Destination
| Country | IELTS Score | TOEFL Score |
|---|---|---|
| UK | 6.0–7.5 | 80–110 |
| USA | 6.0–7.5 | 80–100 |
| Canada | 6.0–8.0 | 90–110 |
| Australia | 6.0–7.0 | 80–100 |
| Germany | 6.0+ | 80+ |
| Netherlands | 6.5+ | 90+ |
Always check with the specific university or immigration program.
Test Preparation Tips for Nigerians
- Start Early – Give yourself 4–6 weeks to prepare.
- Use Official Guides – IELTS Prep by British Council; TOEFL by ETS.
- Practice Listening Daily – Watch BBC, TED Talks, CNN.
- Take Mock Tests – Simulate test conditions weekly.
- Improve Writing – Practice essays and letters (IELTS) or summaries (TOEFL).
- Join Online Study Groups – WhatsApp, Telegram, or Reddit IELTS/TOEFL forums.
Free & Affordable Prep Resources
| Platform | Resources Offered |
|---|---|
| YouTube | Free mock tests & strategies |
| Magoosh | Paid courses with practice drills |
| British Council Nigeria | Free IELTS practice resources |
| ETS TOEFL Practice Online | Official test simulator |
| IELTS Liz / E2 Test Prep | Strategy videos & PDF notes |
Test Validity and Retakes
- Validity: Both IELTS and TOEFL scores are valid for 2 years.
- Retakes: No limit, but you must pay the full fee each time.
Special Notes for Nigerians
- Some universities in Europe and Canada waive English tests if your education was in English. You’ll need a Letter of English Proficiency from your university.
- For UK Skilled Worker visas, only IELTS for UKVI is accepted, not the regular IELTS Academic.
- Both tests now offer Home Editions valid for certain institutions only, not for immigration.
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