Overview of TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
TOEFL is one of the most widely accepted English language proficiency tests globally, administered by ETS (Educational Testing Service). It is primarily designed for non-native English speakers who wish to study, work, or migrate to English-speaking countries.
What is TOEFL?
- TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) assesses the English language proficiency of individuals looking to pursue higher education, immigration, or professional qualifications in countries where English is the primary language.
- More than 11,000 universities recognize the test in over 150 countries, including the USA, Canada, UK, Australia, and New Zealand.
Why Take TOEFL?
- Widely Accepted: TOEFL is accepted by the majority of institutions and governments around the world.
- Comprehensive Test: TOEFL assesses all four key language skills in academic contexts, indicating your English proficiency.
- Multiple Test Dates: TOEFL offers flexible test dates throughout the year, making it convenient for test-takers.
- Fast Results: You can get your TOEFL iBT results within 6 days of taking the test.
Where is TOEFL Accepted?
TOEFL is accepted by:
- Over 11,000 institutions worldwide, including top universities like Harvard, MIT, Yale, and Oxford.
- Government agencies for immigration purposes, especially in countries like the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
Some of the top universities in the USA, Canada, and Europe favor TOEFL for admissions.
Types of TOEFL Tests
TOEFL has two primary formats:
TOEFL iBT (Internet-Based Test)
- The most popular version of the TOEFL, taken online in a secure test center.
- It measures four skills: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing.
- The iBT is widely accepted by universities, employers, and immigration departments worldwide.
TOEFL Essentials
- A shorter, faster version of the test, focusing on academic English and general English proficiency.
- It is accepted by some universities but has a shorter format compared to TOEFL iBT.
TOEFL iBT Test Format
The TOEFL iBT assesses four key language skills, completed in approximately 3 hours:
Listening (41 – 57 minutes)
- 34 to 51 questions based on 2 conversations and 4 to 6 lectures.
- Questions are based on audio recordings, and test-takers need to answer questions related to what they’ve heard.
Speaking (17 minutes)
- 4 tasks in total: 2 independent tasks and 2 integrated tasks.
- You will be asked to express an opinion on a familiar topic (independent tasks) and respond to reading/listening materials (integrated tasks).
Reading (54 – 72 minutes)
- 36 to 56 questions based on 3 to 4 reading passages.
- You will answer multiple-choice questions based on academic texts.
Writing (50 minutes)
- 2 tasks: 1 integrated task and 1 independent task.
- For the integrated task, you’ll read a passage, listen to a lecture, and write a summary.
- In the independent task, you write an essay expressing your opinion on a topic.
Scoring System
The TOEFL iBT is scored on a 120-point scale, with each section (Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing) being scored between 0 and 30 points. The total score is the sum of these four sections.
| Section | Score Range |
|---|---|
| Reading | 0 – 30 |
| Listening | 0 – 30 |
| Speaking | 0 – 30 |
| Writing | 0 – 30 |
| Total Score | 0 – 120 |
- TOEFL scores are valid for 2 years from the test date.
- The average TOEFL iBT score is 90, though top universities may require higher scores, often in the range of 100 to 110.
Minimum TOEFL Score Requirements
TOEFL score requirements vary by institution, country, and program. Here are common minimum TOEFL score requirements for different purposes:
| Purpose | Minimum Score (TOEFL iBT) |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate Study | 60 – 80 |
| Graduate Study (Masters) | 79 – 100 |
| Top Universities | 100 – 110 |
| Work Visa/Immigration | 65 – 90 |
TOEFL Test Fees
The TOEFL test fee varies depending on the country and location of the test center:
| Country | TOEFL iBT Test Fee (Approximate) |
|---|---|
| United States | USD 235 |
| Canada | CAD 320 |
| United Kingdom | GBP 200 |
| Australia | AUD 410 |
| New Zealand | NZD 410 |
| India | INR 16,900 |
| Bangladesh | BDT 20,000 – 22,000 |
| Germany | EUR 255 |
| France | EUR 260 |
| Pakistan | PKR 47,000 |
How to Prepare for TOEFL?
Official TOEFL Practice Tests
- ETS offers official TOEFL practice tests and preparation materials, including full-length practice exams, sample questions, and study guides.
Test Prep Courses
- Many online platforms and institutions provide TOEFL preparation courses. These courses focus on improving your proficiency in the four areas tested on the TOEFL exam.
Self-Study
- TOEFL offers self-study guides and materials for students who prefer to prepare independently.
TOEFL Apps
- ETS has mobile apps designed to help students practice for the TOEFL with sample questions and interactive tools.
How to Register for TOEFL?
- Create an ETS Account: Visit the official ETS website and create a personal account.
- Select Test Center & Date: Choose a nearby test center and available test date that suits your schedule.
- Pay the Fee: Test fees can be paid online via credit/debit card or other approved methods.
- Receive Confirmation: Once registered, you’ll receive a confirmation email with details about the test center, date, and instructions.