A Bibliometric Analysis on Validity of IELTS and TOEFL in Language Testing

Abstract

This study conducts a bibliometric analysis of research on the validity of the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) and the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) from 2009 to 2025. Using Biblioshiny, 70 articles from the Web of Science Core Collection were analyzed to explore publication trends, key journals, influential authors, hot topics, and emerging research directions. Results indicate a growing interest in validity research, with LANGUAGE TESTING as the dominant journal. Key themes include construct validity, predictive validity, and automated assessment. The findings highlight the need for more diverse research contexts and advanced validation methodologies, providing insights for test developers, educators, and researchers.