What is the TOEFL test?
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is a standardized test designed to measure the English language proficiency of non-native English speakers. This test assesses the ability to use and understand English at the university level and evaluates how well individuals can combine their listening, reading, speaking, and writing skills to perform academic tasks. It is one of the most popular English proficiency tests, enabling individuals to demonstrate that they can express their thoughts freely in academic and daily life. The test is available in various formats, including the TOEFL iBT (Internet-Based Test), TOEFL PBT (Paper-Based Test), and the TOEFL Home Edition, with the TOEFL iBT being the most common version.
What are the types of TOEFL exams?
The TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) has several formats to cater to different needs and situations. Here are the detailed types of the TOEFL test:
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TOEFL iBT (Internet-Based Test)
Description: The most common and widely accepted format of the TOEFL test, is conducted online.
- Components
– Reading: Comprehension of academic texts.
– Listening: Understanding lectures and conversations.
– Speaking: Expressing ideas and opinions on familiar topics.
– Writing: Writing essays and responses based on reading and listening tasks.
- Duration: Approximately 3 hours.
- Availability: Offered over 60 times a year at authorized test centers worldwide.
- Scoring: Each section is scored out of 30, with a total score ranging from 0 to 120.
-
TOEFL PBT (Paper-Based Test)
Description: An older format of the TOEFL test, now available only in locations where the iBT is not available.
- Components
– Reading: Similar to the iBT format.
– Listening: Similar to the iBT format.
– Writing (TWE): Test of Written English, involving essay writing.
– Structure and Written Expression: Grammar and usage questions (not included in the iBT).
- Duration: Approximately 2.5 hours.
- Availability: Limited to areas without internet access.
- Scoring: Each section is scored out of 30, with a total score ranging from 310 to 677 (structure and written expression sections contribute separately).
-
TOEFL ITP (Institutional Testing Program)
Description: A paper-based test similar to the PBT, used by institutions for internal purposes, not for official admissions.
- Components
-Listening Comprehension: Understanding spoken English.
– Structure and Written Expression: Grammar and usage.
– Reading Comprehension: Understanding written English.
- Duration: Approximately 2 hours.
- Availability: Administered by institutions like universities or language schools.
- Scoring: Each section scored out of 68-72, with a total score ranging from 310 to 677.
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TOEFL Essentials
Description: A shorter, adaptive test designed to be more accessible and convenient, focusing on practical English skills.
- Components
– Listening: Understanding practical conversations and tasks.
– Reading: Comprehension of everyday texts and academic materials.
– Writing: Short written responses and essays.
– Speaking: Responses to real-world and academic prompts.
- Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours.
- Availability: Offered online, similar to the iBT.
- Scoring: Each section scored out of 12-15, with a total score ranging from 1 to 12.
-
TOEFL Home Edition
Description: The TOEFL iBT was conducted at home under monitored conditions.
- Components: Identical to the TOEFL iBT, covering reading, listening, speaking, and writing.
- Duration: Approximately 3 hours.
- Availability: Available in most countries, offered at specific times.
- Scoring: Same as the iBT, with a total score ranging from 0 to 120.
What is the structure of the TOEFL test?
| Section | Duration | Number of Questions/Tasks | Content |
| Reading | 54-72 minutes | 30-40 questions | 3-4 academic texts with questions to assess comprehension, understanding of main ideas, details, inferences, and vocabulary. |
| Listening | 41-57 minutes | 28-39 questions | 3-4 lectures (each 3-5 minutes) and 2-3 conversations (about 3 minutes each) from academic environments with questions to assess understanding. |
| Speaking | 17 minutes | 4 tasks | 1 independent speaking task (expressing an opinion on a familiar topic) and 3 integrated speaking tasks (reading, listening, and responding). |
| Writing | 50 minutes | 28-39 questions
2 tasks |
1 integrated writing task (reading a text, listening to a lecture, and writing a response) and 1 independent writing task (writing an essay). |
- Test Duration: The TOEFL iBT test usually takes about 4 hours to complete.
What is the purpose of the TOEFL?
The purpose of the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is to assess the English language proficiency of non-native speakers in an academic context.
Here are the key purposes of the TOEFL test:
- Academic Admission: The TOEFL is widely used by universities and colleges around the world as a standard measure of English proficiency for admission purposes. It helps institutions evaluate the ability of prospective students to perform in an English-speaking academic environment.
- Immigration and Visa Requirements: Some countries use TOEFL scores as part of their immigration and visa processes to ensure that applicants have the necessary English language skills to live and work effectively in an English-speaking country.
- Professional Certification: Certain professional organizations and licensing bodies use TOEFL scores to assess the English language abilities of individuals seeking certification or licensing in their field.
- Scholarships and Financial Aid: TOEFL scores are sometimes required for scholarship applications or financial aid, providing evidence of a student’s English proficiency.
- Language Improvement: The TOEFL can also be used by individuals to measure their English language skills and track their progress over time.
How to Apply for the TOEFL Exam?
The TOEFL registration process involves several steps.
- Create a TOEFL Profile: Start by creating an ETS account or downloading the TOEFL Official app. This step is essential for managing your test registration.
- Fill Out the Application Form: Provide necessary details in the TOEFL application form, including personal information and test preferences.
- Choose a Test Center and Date: Select a convenient test center location and a suitable date for taking the TOEFL.
- ID Information and Score Reporting: Enter your identification information accurately. You can also choose up to four institutions to receive your free score reports.
- Select Score Recipients: Decide where you want your scores to be sent (universities, colleges, etc.).
- Demographics and TOEFL Search Service: Complete demographic information and explore the TOEFL Search Service if needed.
- Payment: Pay the registration fee (which varies by country) to finalize your registration.
TOEFL Exam Fee Schedule
The TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language Internet-Based Test) registration fees vary based on your location and the specific services you need.
| Service/Action | Fee (USD) |
| Standard Registration | Variable |
| Late Registration | $40 |
| Reschedule Test | $60 |
| Reinstate Canceled Scores | $20 |
| Additional Score Report | $25 |
| Speaking or Writing Section Review | $80(each) |
| Returned Payment | $30 |
- Payment Methods
The payment methods for the TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language Internet-Based Test) include:
- ETS Account:
You can pay using credit/debit cards, electronic checks (e-checks), or PayPal
- Phone Registration:
Payment options include credit/debit cards or e-checks.
- Mail Registration:
Pay with credit/debit cards.
TOEFL study guide
Detailed Preparation Steps
- Understand the Test Format
Familiarize yourself with the TOEFL test format, including the Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing sections.
- Take a Diagnostic Test
Start with a diagnostic test to identify your strengths and weaknesses.
- Set a Study Schedule
Create a study plan that allocates specific times for each section of the test.
- Improve Your English Skills
Focus on enhancing your English language skills through various activities such as reading, listening, speaking, and writing in English.
- Focus on Each Section
Develop strategies for each section. Practice reading academic texts, listening to lectures, speaking clearly, and writing essays.
- Use Quality Study Materials
Invest in reputable TOEFL preparation books and use online resources for practice.
- Take Practice Tests
Regularly take practice tests to simulate test conditions and improve your test-taking skills.
- Review and Analyze
Review your practice test results to understand your mistakes and make improvements.
- Practice Time Management
Practice answering questions within the time limits to improve your pacing.
- Improve Test-Taking Strategies
Learn strategies for effectively answering different types of questions and handling test pressure.
- Get Familiar with the Test Center
Visit the test center’s website to understand the location, check the test center’s rules, and ensure you know what to bring on the test day.
- Stay Healthy and Rested
Ensure you get adequate rest and maintain a healthy lifestyle leading up to the exam to perform your best.
TOEFL Preparation Books
Preparing for the TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is essential for achieving your desired score. Here are some recommended TOEFL prep books that can help you boost your performance on the test:
- Barron’s TOEFL iBT with 8 Online Practice Tests, 17th Edition:
This comprehensive guide covers strategies, tips, and key concepts for each test section. It includes eight full-length practice exams and digital flashcards to build confidence.
- The Official Guide to the TOEFL iBT, 6th Edition by ETS:
Created by the makers of the TOEFL, this guide offers hundreds of practice questions, sample essays, and four full-length practice tests (available both in the book and online). It provides thorough explanations for each exam section.
- TOEFL iBT Prep Plus, 2020-2021 by Kaplan:
This book helps students master listening, writing, reading, and speaking skills. It includes four complete practice tests closely mirroring the real exam, along with over 450 sample questions and access to online resources like self-paced video tutorials.
The universities that accept students through the TOEFL exam
some prestigious universities that accept TOEFL scores
| University Name | Location |
| Harvard University | United States |
| Stanford University | United States |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | United States |
| Columbia University | United States |
| Yale University | United States |
| University College London (UCL) | United Kingdom |
| University of Oxford | United Kingdom |
| University of Cambridge | United Kingdom |
| University of Melbourne | Australia |
| University of Sydney | United States
Australia |
| University of Tokyo | Japan |
| National University of Singapore (NUS) | Singapore |
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