Complete TOEFL Examination Guide
Your comprehensive resource for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). Everything you need to know about the exam format, preparation strategies, registration process, and scoring.
190+ Countries
TOEFL scores are accepted in over 190 countries worldwide
11,000+ Institutions
Accepted by more than 11,000 universities and institutions
3 Hours
Total test duration with all four sections
0-120 Points
Total scoring range with 30 points per section
What is the TOEFL Exam?
The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is a standardized test that measures the English language ability of non-native speakers wishing to enroll in English-speaking universities. The test is accepted by many English-speaking academic and professional institutions.
TOEFL iBT
Internet-based Test (iBT) is the most common format, administered online at authorized test centers. It measures all four language skills: reading, listening, speaking, and writing.
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TOEFL Essentials
A newer addition to the TOEFL family that measures foundational English skills along with a video statement to showcase personality.
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TOEFL Paper Edition
Available in locations where internet testing is not possible. The Reading, Listening, and Writing sections are on paper, while Speaking is done on a computer.
Learn MoreTOEFL Eligibility Criteria
There are no specific eligibility criteria for taking the TOEFL test. However, it is designed for non-native English speakers who plan to study at universities or institutions where English is the language of instruction.
Who Should Take the TOEFL?
Students planning to study at a higher education institution, scholarship candidates, English language learning program applicants, students and workers applying for visas, and individuals tracking their English progress.
Identification Requirements
Test takers must present a valid, acceptable identification document that includes their name, photograph, and signature. The name on the ID must exactly match the name used for registration.
Age Requirements
There is no minimum or maximum age limit for taking the TOEFL test. However, test takers under 18 years of age are recommended to have parental consent.
Note: While there are no strict eligibility criteria, it is recommended that test takers have at least an intermediate level of English proficiency before attempting the exam.
TOEFL Test Format
The TOEFL iBT test measures your ability to use and understand English at the university level. It evaluates how well you combine your reading, listening, speaking, and writing skills to perform academic tasks.
Reading Section
Measures the ability to understand academic reading material.
Format
3-4 reading passages, each approximately 700 words long, with 10 questions per passage. Total questions: 30-40.
Time
54-72 minutes to complete the section.
Question Types
Multiple-choice questions focusing on reading to find information, basic comprehension, and reading to learn.
Listening Section
Measures the ability to understand spoken English in academic settings.
Format
3-4 lectures, each 3-5 minutes long with 6 questions each, and 2-3 conversations, each 3 minutes long with 5 questions each.
Time
41-57 minutes to complete the section.
Question Types
Multiple-choice questions focusing on understanding the main ideas, important details, and the speaker’s attitude or purpose.
Speaking Section
Measures the ability to speak English effectively in academic settings.
Format
4 tasks: 1 independent task (express personal opinion) and 3 integrated tasks (combine skills: read, listen, then speak).
Time
17 minutes to complete the section.
Evaluation
Responses are recorded and evaluated based on delivery, language use, and topic development.
Writing Section
Measures the ability to write in English in an academic setting.
Format
2 tasks: 1 integrated task (read, listen, then write) and 1 independent task (support an opinion on a topic).
Time
50 minutes to complete the section (20 minutes for integrated task, 30 minutes for independent task).
Evaluation
Responses are evaluated based on organization, quality and accuracy of content, and use of language.
TOEFL Syllabus
The TOEFL exam syllabus covers all four language skills: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing. The content focuses on language used in academic environments.
Content: Passages from university-level textbooks that introduce a discipline or topic. The passages cover a variety of subjects.
Skills Tested:
- Reading to find information
- Basic comprehension
- Reading to learn
- Understanding rhetorical purpose
- Recognizing organization and purpose
- Understanding relationships between ideas
- Making inferences
Content: Lectures and conversations that reflect typical language use in academic environments.
Skills Tested:
- Understanding the main idea
- Understanding important details
- Understanding the speaker’s attitude and degree of certainty
- Understanding the function of what is said
- Understanding relationships between ideas
- Making inferences and predictions
- Connecting information across parts of the listening passage
Content: Tasks that require test takers to express an opinion on a familiar topic and speak based on reading and listening tasks.
Skills Tested:
- Speaking about familiar topics
- Speaking about campus situations
- Speaking about academic course content
- Delivery: clarity, fluency, and automaticity
- Language use: appropriate and effective use of grammar and vocabulary
- Topic development: fully developed and coherent responses
Content: Tasks that require test takers to write essay responses based on reading and listening tasks and to support an opinion in writing.
Skills Tested:
- Integrated writing: ability to write based on what is read and heard
- Independent writing: ability to write an essay stating and supporting an opinion
- Organization: well-organized and well-developed responses
- Language use: appropriate and sophisticated use of grammar and vocabulary
TOEFL Preparation Tips
Effective preparation is key to achieving a high score on the TOEFL exam. Here are comprehensive strategies for each section of the test.
Reading Section Preparation Tips
Skim First, Then Read
Quickly skim the passage to get the main idea before reading in detail. This helps you understand the structure and locate information more efficiently.
Build Academic Vocabulary
Learn common academic words and phrases. Create flashcards and practice using new words in context to improve retention.
Practice Time Management
Allocate about 18 minutes per passage. Don’t spend too much time on any single question. Mark difficult questions and return to them if time allows.
Listening Section Preparation Tips
Focus on Main Ideas
Pay attention to the main ideas rather than trying to understand every word. Note the purpose and organization of the lecture or conversation.
Develop Note-Taking Skills
Practice taking concise notes using abbreviations and symbols. Focus on key points, relationships between ideas, and important details.
Expose Yourself to Various Accents
Listen to academic content with different English accents (American, British, Australian) to become comfortable with variations in pronunciation.
Speaking Section Preparation Tips
Practice Speaking Under Time Pressure
Use a timer to practice giving responses within the time limits. This will help you become comfortable with the test format.
Use a Clear Structure
Organize your responses with a clear introduction, supporting points, and conclusion. This makes your answers more coherent and easier to follow.
Focus on Clarity, Not Perfection
Aim for clear pronunciation and natural pacing rather than using complex vocabulary incorrectly. It’s better to speak simply and clearly.
Writing Section Preparation Tips
Plan Before You Write
Spend 2-3 minutes outlining your essay before you start writing. This will help you organize your thoughts and create a coherent response.
Use Varied Sentence Structures
Demonstrate your language proficiency by using a mix of simple and complex sentences. Avoid repetitive sentence patterns.
Leave Time for Revision
Reserve 2-3 minutes at the end to proofread your work. Check for grammatical errors, spelling mistakes, and unclear expressions.
General TOEFL Preparation Tips
Create a Study Schedule
Develop a consistent study plan that covers all sections of the test. Allocate more time to areas where you need improvement.
Take Practice Tests
Regularly take full-length practice tests under timed conditions. This will help you build stamina and become familiar with the test format.
Analyze Your Performance
Review your practice test results to identify patterns in your errors. Focus your preparation on improving weak areas.
TOEFL Scoring System
The TOEFL iBT test is scored on a scale of 0 to 120 points, with each of the four sections (Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing) scored out of 30 points.
Reading and Listening Scoring
These sections are scored by computer. The number of correct answers is converted to a scaled score between 0 and 30.
Speaking Scoring
Responses are scored by certified ETS raters based on speech delivery, language use, and topic development. Each response receives a score from 0 to 4, which is converted to a scaled score of 0 to 30.
Writing Scoring
Essays are scored by certified ETS raters based on organization, quality and accuracy of content, and use of language. Each essay receives a score from 0 to 5, which is converted to a scaled score of 0 to 30.
Score Requirements: Different institutions have different score requirements. Most universities require a total score between 80-100, with some competitive programs requiring 100 or higher. Always check the specific requirements of the institutions you’re applying to.
| Skill Level | Reading | Listening | Speaking | Writing | Total Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced | 22-30 | 22-30 | 25-30 | 24-30 | 95-120 |
| High-Intermediate | 15-21 | 14-21 | 18-25 | 17-23 | 72-94 |
| Low-Intermediate | 8-14 | 7-13 | 13-17 | 11-16 | 47-71 |
| Basic | 0-7 | 0-6 | 0-12 | 0-10 | 0-46 |
TOEFL Registration Process
Registering for the TOEFL test is a straightforward process that can be completed online, by phone, or by mail. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the registration process.
Create an ETS Account
Visit the official ETS website and create an account. This account will be used for registration, accessing scores, and sending score reports to institutions.
Select Test Date and Location
Choose a test date and location that is convenient for you. It’s recommended to register 3-4 months in advance to secure your preferred test date.
Pay the Exam Fee
The TOEFL exam fee varies by country. Payment can typically be made using credit/debit cards, electronic transfers, or other local payment methods.
Receive Confirmation
After successful registration, you will receive a confirmation email with your test details, including the test center address and reporting time.
Important: Make sure the name on your registration exactly matches the name on the identification document you will present at the test center. Discrepancies may prevent you from taking the test.
Recommended TOEFL Preparation Books
Using high-quality preparation materials is essential for TOEFL success. Here are some of the most recommended books for TOEFL preparation.
The Official Guide to the TOEFL Test
Published by ETS, the creators of the TOEFL test, this guide contains real TOEFL questions, practice tests, and explanations of each section.
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Barron’s TOEFL iBT
Comprehensive guide with 7 full-length practice tests, audio CDs, and extensive review sections for all test areas.
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Cambridge Preparation for the TOEFL Test
Includes skill-building exercises, practice tests, and interactive activities to help improve all areas of the test.
More InfoOnline TOEFL Preparation Platforms
In addition to books, there are numerous online platforms that offer comprehensive TOEFL preparation resources, including practice tests, interactive exercises, and personalized feedback.
ETS Official Resources
The official ETS website offers free sample questions, practice tests, and valuable test-taking tips directly from the test makers.
Magoosh TOEFL Prep
Provides video lessons, practice questions, and full-length tests with detailed explanations and score predictions.
Magoosh TOEFL Prep
Offers comprehensive online courses with video lessons, practice questions, and study plans tailored to different score goals.
TOEFL Preparation Apps
Mobile apps like TOEFL Bank, TOEFL iBT Prep, and others offer convenient practice opportunities with instant feedback and progress tracking.
TOEFL Study Plan
A well-structured study plan is essential for effective TOEFL preparation. Here’s a sample 8-week study plan that you can adapt based on your schedule and proficiency level.
Weeks 1-2: Foundation Building
Take a Diagnostic Test
Begin with a full-length practice test to identify your strengths and weaknesses. This will help you focus your preparation efforts.
Review Basic Grammar and Vocabulary
Spend time reviewing essential grammar rules and building your academic vocabulary. Focus on words commonly used in academic contexts.
Practice Listening Skills
Listen to academic lectures, podcasts, and news reports in English. Practice taking notes while listening to improve your retention.
Weeks 3-4: Section Focus
Focus on Reading Strategies
Practice different reading comprehension strategies, such as skimming, scanning, and identifying main ideas. Work on improving your reading speed.
Develop Speaking Skills
Practice speaking on various topics within the time limits. Record yourself to identify areas for improvement in pronunciation and fluency.
Work on Writing Structure
Learn the structure of TOEFL essays and practice writing responses. Focus on organizing your ideas logically and using appropriate transitions.
Weeks 5-6: Practice and Refinement
Take Sectional Practice Tests
Focus on one section at a time under timed conditions. Analyze your mistakes and work on improving your weak areas.
Improve Time Management
Practice completing each section within the allotted time. Develop strategies for managing your time effectively during the test.
Review and Refine
Go back to difficult concepts and practice them again. Focus on understanding your errors and learning from them.
Weeks 7-8: Final Preparation
Take Full-Length Practice Tests
Simulate the actual test experience by taking full-length practice tests. Do this under timed conditions to build stamina.
Analyze Performance
Review your practice test results to identify any remaining weak areas. Focus your final efforts on these areas.
Final Review and Relaxation
In the final days before the test, do a light review of key concepts. Get plenty of rest and ensure you’re well-prepared for test day.
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With proper guidance and preparation, you can achieve your target TOEFL score and open doors to international education opportunities.