Skip to content
Emir Hoca.

YDS, TOEFL or IELTS? Choosing an exam after the 2026 changes

TOEFL iBT was redesigned in January 2026 and IELTS is dropping paper tests. Which exam fits your goal, and which phrases to study for each.

2 min read

Two big changes hit English exams this year. According to a research report published by IELTS, ETS launched the new TOEFL iBT in January 2026: shorter, adaptive (it gets harder or easier depending on your answers) and with a new score report. The report says new scores shouldn't be compared directly with old TOEFL scores (IELTS, 16 February 2026). Bear in mind the report comes from a competing test provider.

On the IELTS side, according to one news report, the paper-based test is being phased out worldwide by mid-2026; timing varies by country, while the format and scoring stay the same (Gujarat Samachar, 25 March 2026). Check the situation in your country on the page of the centre you'll register with.

Choosing by goal

  • Public sector or academic posts in Turkey: usually the YDS or e-YDS. YDS/2 is on 22 November, the e-YDS on 19 December.
  • A master's degree or a job abroad: mostly TOEFL iBT or IELTS. Check which one is accepted, and the minimum score, on the institution's own page.
  • Immigration and visas: some countries require a specific test; rely only on the official immigration page.

The most common mistake I see is starting with "which exam is easiest" without checking what the institution wants. Open their page first, then start studying.

Where they differ

The YDS only tests reading and grammar; there's no writing or speaking. TOEFL and IELTS test all four skills. For someone who studied for the YDS, speaking and writing are usually the biggest gap. The phrases below are for exactly that gap.

Phrases for writing

  • On the one hand, … On the other hand, …
  • It is widely believed that …
  • This can be attributed to …
  • In contrast to …
  • The figure rose sharply from 20% to 45%.
  • The number remained stable at around 100.

Phrases for speaking

  • That's an interesting question. Let me think for a moment.
  • What I mean is …
  • To give you an example, …

Common mistakes

  • According to me, … → In my opinion, … or I believe that … ("according to" is for someone else's view.)
  • The number of people is increased. → The number of people has increased.
  • People are more and more busy. → People are busier and busier.
  • I did the IELTS yesterday. → I took the IELTS yesterday. ("take" an exam)

Mini exercise

Fill in the gap: Despite ______ (study) for months, he felt unprepared. Answer: studying (despite + -ing).

Sources

YDS, TOEFL or IELTS: which English exam in 2026? — Emir Hoca