TOEFL: Complete Guide to the Test of English as a Foreign Language

The TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is one of the most widely accepted English proficiency exams for non-native speakers who wish to study, work, or immigrate to English-speaking countries. Administered by ETS (Educational Testing Service), TOEFL evaluates the ability to use and understand English at the university level, focusing on the four core language skills: reading, listening, speaking, and writing.

Table of Contents

1. What is TOEFL?
2. Types of TOEFL Tests
3. TOEFL iBT Format
4. Scoring System
5. Registration Process
6. Eligibility Criteria
7. TOEFL Exam Fees
8. TOEFL Exam Dates
9. Preparation Tips
10. Colleges and Universities Accepting TOEFL Scores
11. TOEFL vs Other English Tests
12. FAQs

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What is TOEFL?

The TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is an English language proficiency test designed for non-native English speakers. It is primarily used by universities, colleges, and other institutions to assess the English language skills of prospective students. TOEFL is widely recognized and accepted by over 11,000 universities and institutions in more than 150 countries around the world, including the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and European countries.

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Types of TOEFL Tests

There are two main formats of the TOEFL test:

1. TOEFL iBT (Internet-Based Test):
   • The most common form of TOEFL, conducted online.
   • Assesses reading, listening, speaking, and writing skills.
   • Available at authorized test centers or at home (TOEFL iBT Home Edition).
2. TOEFL PBT (Paper-Based Test):
   • Used in areas where internet access is limited.
   • Includes sections for reading, listening, and writing.
   • The TOEFL PBT is less common and is gradually being phased out.

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TOEFL iBT Format

The TOEFL iBT consists of four sections, each designed to measure a specific aspect of language proficiency.

1. Reading (54–72 minutes | 30–40 questions):

   • Consists of 3 to 4 reading passages from academic texts.
   • Each passage has 10 questions.
   • Tests the ability to understand and interpret university-level texts.

2. Listening (41–57 minutes | 28–39 questions):

   • Includes 3–4 lectures and 2–3 conversations.
   • Each audio is followed by questions that assess comprehension of main ideas, details, and speaker's intent.

3. Speaking (17 minutes | 4 tasks):

   • Includes 1 independent task and 3 integrated tasks.
   • Requires test-takers to express opinions on familiar topics and respond to reading or listening material.

4. Writing (50 minutes | 2 tasks):

   • Comprises 1 integrated task and 1 independent task.
   • Test-takers write an essay based on the reading and listening materials and express their opinion on an issue.

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Scoring System

Each section of the TOEFL iBT is scored on a scale of 0–30, making the total score range from 0 to 120.

• Reading: 0–30
• Listening: 0–30
• Speaking: 0–30
• Writing: 0–30

The scores are valid for 2 years, and you will receive your TOEFL iBT scores approximately 6 days after the test. You can send your scores to universities directly from the ETS website.

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Registration Process

To register for the TOEFL test, follow these steps:

1. Create an Account on the ETS Website:
   • Go to the ETS website and create an account.
2. Choose Test Date and Location:
   • Select the most convenient test center or choose the TOEFL iBT Home Edition if preferred.
3. Complete Registration and Pay the Fee:
   • You can pay the registration fee online using credit/debit cards or PayPal.
4. Receive Confirmation:
   • After successful registration, you’ll receive a confirmation email with test details.

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Eligibility Criteria

There are no specific eligibility criteria to take the TOEFL exam. It is open to all individuals, regardless of their educational background or age. However, candidates should:

• Have basic knowledge of English.
• Be prepared to use English at an academic level.

Most students who take the TOEFL are aiming to study abroad or seeking visa applications for work or immigration purposes.

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TOEFL Exam Fees

The TOEFL exam fees vary by country but generally range between $180 and $325. Below are some common fees for different services:

• TOEFL iBT Test Fee: $180–$250 (depending on location)
• Late Registration Fee: $40
• Rescheduling Fee: $60
• Additional Score Reports: $20 per institution

For the most accurate and up-to-date fee, check the ETS website for your region.

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TOEFL Exam Dates

TOEFL exams are conducted multiple times throughout the year, typically 50 to 60 test dates are available worldwide. You can choose a test date based on availability in your region.

It’s recommended to register for the TOEFL exam 2 to 3 months in advance to secure your desired test date and location.

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Preparation Tips

To prepare for TOEFL, here are some strategies:

1. Familiarize Yourself with the Format:

   • Understand the test structure, types of questions, and timing of each section.

2. Use Official Study Material:

   • TOEFL offers a range of official guides and practice tests, including the TOEFL iBT Practice Tests and TOEFL Go!® Official App.

3. Build Your Vocabulary:

   • Work on expanding your vocabulary, especially academic words, as they frequently appear in the reading and listening sections.

4. Practice Reading and Listening:

   • Regularly read academic articles, listen to lectures, podcasts, and news in English to improve comprehension.

5. Improve Speaking and Writing:

   • Record yourself while speaking and seek feedback.
   • Practice writing essays within the time limits and focus on clarity, organization, and grammar.

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Colleges and Universities Accepting TOEFL Scores

Over 11,000 institutions across the world accept TOEFL scores for admission, including:

• United States: Harvard University, MIT, Stanford University, and others.
• United Kingdom: University of Oxford, University of Cambridge, and others.
• Canada: University of Toronto, McGill University, and others.
• Australia: University of Sydney, University of Melbourne, and others.

Most universities in the US and Canada prefer TOEFL over other English proficiency exams.

TOEFL vs Other English Tests

Test	TOEFL	IELTS	PTE
Format	Online	Online/Paper	Online
Accepted In	US, Canada, UK, etc.	UK, Australia, US	Australia, New Zealand
Scoring Scale	0–120	0–9	10–90
Duration	3 hours	2 hours 45 mins	3 hours
Frequency	50+ test dates/year	Multiple times/month	Multiple times/year
Skills Tested	Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing	Same	Same

FAQs

1. How many times can I take the TOEFL?

   • You can retake the TOEFL as many times as you like, but there must be a gap of at least 12 days between attempts.

2. Can I send TOEFL scores to multiple institutions?

   • Yes, you can send scores to up to 4 institutions for free during registration. Additional score reports will incur a fee.

3. How long is the TOEFL score valid?

   • TOEFL scores are valid for 2 years from the date of the test.

4. Which countries accept TOEFL?

   • TOEFL is accepted by universities and institutions in the US, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Europe.