The TOEIC focuses on business English. It is generally thought of as a work-related English proficiency exam. However, a surprising number of US universities and degree programs will accept the TOEIC as an alternative to the TOEFL or IELTS.
There are four types of TOEIC tests: Reading & Listening, Writing, Speaking, and the TOEIC Bridge. American schools that accept the TOEIC most often require applicants to take TOEIC Reading & Listening. Still, it’s not uncommon for a U.S. institution to ask for the Writing and Speaking tests instead of the Reading & Listening one. Some universities even ask you to take all three of those exams. The TOEIC Bridge exam is usually taken on campus after you arrive, and used for level placement in Intensive English Programs. In some rare cases, a school may use TOEIC Bridge as a general admissions assessment.
If you are considering the TOEIC, there are many possible tests or test combinations you might take. To help you better understand if the TOEIC is right for you, let’s compare the basic facts about the TOEFL iBT and the four kinds of TOEICs.