What Is the TOEFL Exam?

TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is an English language proficiency test administered by ETS (Educational Testing Service). It is primarily used for admission to universities in the United States and Canada, and is also accepted by universities in the UK, Australia, and over 150 other countries.

The current standard version is the TOEFL iBT (Internet-Based Test), taken on a computer at a test centre or at home (TOEFL iBT Home Edition). The test takes approximately 2 hours and assesses Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing in an integrated academic context.

TOEFL iBT Format (Updated 2023)

ETS updated the TOEFL iBT in 2023, reducing the total test time from approximately 3 hours to approximately 2 hours. The format is now:

TOEFL Scoring

Each section is scored 0-30. The total score is 0-120. Scores are available online approximately 4-8 business days after the test.

TOEFL MyBest Scores

ETS introduced MyBest Scores, which allows you to combine the best section scores across multiple test attempts. For example, if you scored Reading 27 in one attempt and Speaking 25 in another, your MyBest Reading is 27 and your MyBest Speaking is 25. Many institutions now accept MyBest Scores - check your target university's policy before deciding whether to retake the test.

TOEFL to IELTS Score Comparison

These comparisons are approximate. ETS and IELTS publish official concordance tables. Scores do not convert exactly because the tests measure skills differently.

Key Differences: TOEFL vs IELTS

How to Prepare for TOEFL

Realistic Score Targets and Timeline

What TOEFL-Specific Preparation Looks Like

• Practice integrated tasks - TOEFL's read-listen-write and read-listen-speak tasks are unique to TOEFL. They require a specific note-taking and synthesis skill that must be practised specifically
• Develop note-taking speed - Listening notes must capture key points from fast-paced academic lectures within seconds
• Time your Speaking responses - 45-60 second responses require precision - starting your answer within 15 seconds and reaching a clear conclusion before the timer ends
• Use official ETS practice tests from ets.org - the free TOEFL Practice Online tests are the most realistic preparation available
• Get Speaking scores reviewed - the computer-scored Speaking section uses machine scoring for some responses; having a human teacher assess your fluency, pronunciation, and coherence gives you diagnostic information the machine cannot

Frequently Asked Questions

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