TOEFL, which stands for Testing of English as Foreign Language, is a major proficiency exam that aims to evaluate the English language skills of those individuals who want to go abroad for higher studies and employment. This test is administered by ETS or Educational Testing Service.
TOEFL test score is accepted in more than 13,000 universities in over 160 countries, including the USA, Canada, the UK, Australia, and New Zealand. In this blog, we have discussed the TOEFL exam comprehensively, including its pattern, format, syllabus, registration process, and more.
Table of Contents
Why is the TOEFL Exam Important?
- To get admission at overseas colleges and universities, a TOEFL score is required to submit for demonstrating proficiency in the English language.
- However, the requirement for a TOEFL score can vary from one university to another.
- The TOEFL exam is also used as a benchmark by numerous professional bodies and government agencies to check the eligibility of candidates for prestigious employment programs and scholarships.
Types of TOEFL Exam
Following, we have tabulated the types of TOEFL exams, including their exam content, exam duration, and validity.
| Type of TOEFL | Exam Content | Exam Duration | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| TOEFL Academic - iBT | Academic English based on university coursework | 2 Hours 30 Minutes | 2 Years |
| TOEFL Essentials | Academic and general English | 1 Hour 30 Minutes | 2 Years |
| TOEFL ITP | Internal assessment of English proficiency of the students by institutes | 3 Hours 30 Minutes | 2 Years |
| TOEFL Junior | Assessment of foundational level of English in children aged 11+ | 1 Hour 55 Minutes | 2 Years |
| TOEFL Primary | Foundational level evaluation of English in children aged 8+ | 2 Hours | 1 Year |
The different types of TOEFL exams are
- TOEFL Academic
- TOEFL Paper Based Test
- TOEFL computer-based test
- TOEFL iBT (Internet based test)
- TOEFL Essentials
- TOEFL ITP
- TOEFL Junior
- TOEFL Primary
Let’s discuss them one by one.
TOEFL Academic
TOEFL Academic is a version of the TOEFL exam that evaluates non-native speakers’ understanding and knowledge of the English language in an academic context.
TOEFL Internet Based Test (iBT)
As the name indicates, it is an internet-based test that evaluates English language proficiency skills online. It can be taken at home, and the centre options are available.
There are two versions of TOEFL iBT:
- TOEFL iBT Test
- TOEFL iBT Home Edition
TOEFL Essentials
- The TOEFL Essentials Test is another English language assessment test that evaluates academic and general English, commonly used in everyday life.
- It was introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic to give students flexibility in appearing in the proficiency exam.
- It is a purely home-based test. It also checks all four academic English skills,
- It includes short and engaging tasks, and its duration is short, e.g., 90 minutes.
TOEFL ITP
- The TOEFL ITP, or TOEFL Institutional Testing Program, is a paper-based version of the TOEFL that evaluates the English language proficiency skills of students who are 16+.
- It is administered by universities, colleges, and language schools for internal assessment purposes, such as measuring the students’ proficiency level in four different skills:
There are a few contexts in which it is used: - For placing the students in English language training classrooms
- Monitoring student progress in English language courses.
- To prepare students for TOEFL iBT.
- Admissions to short-term and diploma programs.
TOEFL Junior
- TOEFL Junior is part of the TOEFL Young Students test series that aims to assess and impart the foundation of English language skills in children aged 11+.
- It measures the communication skills of young children to identify their strengths and build newer ones.
TOEFL Junior consists of three tests:
TOEFL Junior Standard Test: Measures reading comprehension, listening comprehension, and language form and meaning.
TOEFL Junior Speaking Test: Measures students’ ability to communicate orally in English in the classroom.
TOEFL Junior Writing Test: Measures students’ ability to communicate in writing for social and academic purposes.
There are a few contexts in which it is used:
- Assessment of the academic and social English proficiency skills.
- It gives insight into students’ ability to listen, speak, write, and read.
- Develop an early learning environment for younger ones.
TOEFL Primary
TOEFL Primary is a version of the TOEFL that evaluates and measures the English communication skills of young students to guide their goals and monitor academic progress.
There are a few contexts in which it is used:
- Assessment of the academic and social English proficiency skills.
- It gives insight into students’ ability to listen, speak, write, and read.
- Develops an early learning environment for younger ones.
Editions of TOEFL iBT Exam: Types, Eligibility & Requirements
The TOEFL exam can either be taken at the test centre (TOEFL iBT test) or at home (TOEFL Home edition), depending on their flexibility and comfort.
Let’s understand their basic features, differences, eligibility, and more.
TOEFL iBT Test
- The TOEFL iBT test is conducted on a computer system at an authorised test centre.
- This allows students to take the exam under proper test conditions without any distractions.
- It is conducted 6 days a week at selected centres.
- Currently, there are more than 3000 test centres worldwide.
- The TOEFL iBT test (centre edition) uses a standard English-language (QWERTY) computer keyboard.
TOEFL iBT (Home Edition)
- The TOEFL iBT Home Edition is conducted similarly to the centre edition.
- Still, the primary difference is that students can take the test at home in the former edition, in suitable and comfortable conditions.
- Unlike the centre edition, the exam time is open to students 4 days a week; they can take tests at any time, conveniently and flexibly.
Requirements of the TOEFL Home Edition
Here, we will discuss the specific requirements a TOEFL iBT (Home Edition) candidate must meet before appearing for the test.
Equipment
- Using multiple monitors is prohibited; candidates can use only one monitor or screen.
- The operating system must be licensed.
- Candidates are required to download and install the ETS secure test browser on the system.
- Candidates are prohibited from using earphones. Instead, they can use speakers to hear the invigilator’s instructions.
- The webcam should be adjusted so an invigilator sees a 360° view of the testing room.
Environment
- The doors of the testing rooms must be locked.
- There should be no one in the testing room except the candidate.
- The room and table should not have any material or content that can hinder the test.
- While testing, candidates should dress appropriately.
- Any study material, notes, etc, are not allowed in the testing room.
- The system must be placed on the desk or tabletop rather than a bed.
Eligibility of TOEFL iBT Exam
- No specific eligibility criteria are set to appear in the TOEFL iBT test.
- Candidates from all age groups and educational backgrounds can undergo the test provided they have followed the procedures appropriately.
- There is no limit on the number of test attempts.
- Multiple retakes of the iBT test are permitted until the candidate gets the desired score.
TOEFL Exam Pattern
Below, we have presented the tabulated form of the TOEFL exam pattern, which one should know and understand to structure their mindset for the exam.
| Sections | Questions/Task | Time Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Reading | 20 questions | 35 minutes |
| Listening | 28 questions | 36 minutes |
| Speaking | 4 tasks | 16 minutes |
| Writing | 2 tasks | 29 minutes |
TOEFL Exam Pattern: Breakdown of Sections
Now, let us understand each TOEFL section in detail.
Reading Section
It evaluates the reading comprehension of the students in an academic setting.
Content: 2 passages, each of 700 words
Number of questions: 20 MCQs (10 questions per passage)
Time Duration: 35 minutes
Type of questions
The reading section of the TOEFL iBT test consists of questions based on the following topics:
- Factual Information & Negative Factual Information
- Inference & Rhetorical Purpose
- Vocabulary
- Sentence Simplification
- Inert Text Question
- Prose Summary
Listening Section
The listening section of the TOEFL iBT test assesses the
- basic listening comprehension
- understanding the intention of the speaker
- connecting information
Content: 3 lectures (3-5 minutes each) and 2 conversations (3 minutes each)
Number of questions:
- 6 questions per lecture (18 questions).
- 5 questions per conversation (10 questions).
Time Duration: 36 minutes
Type of questions
The listening section of the TOEFL iBT test consists of questions based on the following topics:
- Gist Content and Gist Purpose
- Detail
- Function
- Attitude
- Organisation
- Connecting Content
- Inference
Speaking Section
The speaking section of the TOEFL iBT test evaluates the ability of the students to speak the English language fluently in academic pursuits.
Content: Tasks based on Independent speaking and Integrated speaking skills.
Number of questions: 4 tasks (45-60 seconds per response)
Time Duration: 16 minutes
Speaking Response: Students are needed to speak into the microphone to respond to questions.
Type of questions
The speaking section of the TOEFL iBT test consists of questions based on the following topics:
- Task 1 or Independent speaking task
- Task 2-4 or Integrated Speaking Task
The speaking section of the TOEFL iBT test consists of questions based on the following topics:
- Task 1 or Independent speaking task
- Task 2-4 or Integrated Speaking Task
Writing Section
It assesses the communication skills of the students in actual academic pursuits. It checks their ability to express their ideas or opinions clearly.
Content: A passage and online classroom discussion
Number of questions: 2 tasks
Time Duration: 29 minutes
Speaking Response: Students need to talk using the microphone.
Type of questions
The writing section of the TOEFL iBT test consists of questions based on the following topics:
- Task 1 or Integrated writing task:
Time Duration: 20 minutes
- Task 2 or Academic Discussion Task:
Time Duration: 10 minutes
TOEFL Exam Syllabus: Covered Topics
There is no specific TOEFL Exam syllabus, as the students are required to have a general awareness of their surroundings, which will help them express their opinions or ideas specifically. The questions and tasks may be derived from the following general topics:
- Agriculture Sciences
- General Knowledge & Current Affairs
- Science & Technology
- Social Sciences
- Humanities
Registration for the TOEFL iBT Exam
Indian students aspiring to participate in the TOEFL iBT test need to register for the exam. The application process for the TOEFL iBT Exam can be submitted through the following ways:
- Create an account on the ETS Official website.
- After account creation, choose whether you want to participate in the test at the centre at home.
- Now go through the calendar that popped up there and select the date on which you want to give the test from available dates.
- After selecting a date, choose your test timing.
- Proceed with ‘Confirm’.
- Now, fill out the personal details like name, contact number, address, etc.
- On the next page, you will be asked to fill in the motivation details to participate in the TOEFL test.
- Upon completing it, proceed with ‘continue’.
- On the next page, you need to fill in the maximum four names of the academic institution in which you are looking to pursue higher education.This is an optional field.
- Proceed with ‘review registration’.
- On the next page, you will be redirected to ‘My carts’. There, you can also purchase TOEFL exam material and mock test papers from ETS.
- Now click on ‘pay’ and make a purchase.
Important Things to Know While Registering
- The test centre and test time are subject to change. You are required to confirm the details once before appearing for the test by logging in to your ETS account.
- If you choose to appear for the test at the centre, then you will be shown a list of test centres. Select the most appropriate centre from the list.
- Since the TOEFL score is sent directly to an academic institution (in case you are sitting in a test to get enrollment in a foreign institution), you can enter a maximum of 4 names of those institutes that you are looking for.
- No other person can appear for the test in your place because the registration is not transferable.
- Offline registrations are not available.
ID Requirements
For Indian students, only a passport with a name, photo, and signature is acceptable as proof of identity to appear on the test.
TOEFL iBT Test Preparation: Strategy to Ace the Exam
In the following sections, we have provided the 8-week study plan to help students better prepare for the test. We have also included the important tips to be followed before and after registration.
Study Planner
Students are advised to begin their preparation journey almost 3 months before the test. The chart illustrates each week’s objectives and their respective focus area.
| Weeks | Focus Area | Objective |
|---|---|---|
| Week 1 | Introduction of TOEFL iBT Test | Familiarise with test format and syllabus Determine the target score. Take the initial mock test to go through your strengths and weaknesses |
| Week 2 | Speaking Section (Pronunciation, tone, style, fluency, synonyms) | Communicate in the English language to people you are comfortable with Watch English news debates every day Read English blogs or newspapers daily |
| Week 3 | Reading Section (Vocabulary, sentence formation, pronunciation, synonyms) | Read full-fledged English newspapers and blogs daily within a time limit Analyse what you have read and make notes Give mock tests |
| Week 4 | Listening Section (Holding accent and enunciation, assimilation, judging the tone of the speaker) | Listen to English podcasts and audio shows on FM every day and make notes Analyse the notes and infer the basic idea behind the discussion Watch English news, shows, and movies (without subtitles) |
| Week 5 | Writing Section (Comprehension of sentence structure, tone, imagination, answer making, formal communication) | Read the basic rules of grammar Write an essay on a familiar topic and get it checked by the tutor Analyse the basic points present in the essay and reframe it |
| Week 6 | Test and Practice | Evaluate your responses by a tutor or expert Analyse your test scores section-wise Focus on weaker points |
| Week 7 | Retest and Preparation for the Test Day | Attempt test in a given time frame Compare and analyse current and previous scores Make revisions |
| Week 8 | Preparation for the final week | Take mock tests and get them evaluated Continue preparation Gather your documents |
Test Prep Strategies
Below, we have mentioned some essential before-registration, registration, and test-day tips for students:
Before Registration
- Check the minimum TOEFL score criteria by visiting the college/university website to set the target score.
- Go through the format, pattern, and syllabus to learn more about the nature of the test.
- Gather an authentic study tool kit like ETS TOEFL Test Ready, which provides sufficient study resources like study guides, mock tests, performance insights, progress trackers, etc.
- Go through the study prep planner and follow the strategies given.
- At the end of each week, give mock tests and analyse your performance for the particular section you were preparing for.
- At the end of the seventh week and before the beginning of the eighth week, give a full-fledged practice test and get it evaluated by the expert.
- When you feel like appearing for a test, arrange and gather all the necessary documents to initiate the registration process on the official website of the ETS.
After Registration
For testing at the centre:
- Log into the ETS account to confirm the location and time of the test.
- Determine your route to avoid chaos.
- It is essential to know that applicants must visit the centre at least 30 minutes before check-in.
- Carry a valid ID card to show at the centre during check-in.
For testing at home:
- Know and meet the equipment and environmental requirements before the test at home.
- Review the operating conditions of the computer.
- Have sufficient sleep and relaxation before appearing for the test.
On the Test Day
- Sleep early in the night before the test.
- Wake up early in the morning.
- Before appearing for the test, have sufficient good meals like fruits, green vegetables, milk, etc..
- Since the TOEFL test takes 2 hours without any break, use the washroom beforehand.
- Dress appropriately and avoid any attire that can cover the head, face, or ears.
- Avoid wearing any religious handwear or attire.
- Do not carry personal belongings like mobile devices, watches, food, drinks, etc.
- Visit the centre in at least 30 minutes for check-in.
- Carry a valid ID card to show at the centre during check-in.
Test-Taking Tips
- Read and know the directions carefully.
- Make responses carefully after reading the question.
- Do not spend much time on one question; proceed to the next one.
- Refrain from thinking about previous answers.
After Test
After the completion of the test, the applicants need to follow the following guidelines:
- After completing the test, the scores will be allotted immediately.
- Applicants can either choose to report or cancel the scores.
- On choosing to cancel the scores, they will not be sent to the institutions, and no refund will be issued.
- On reporting the test scores, applicants will be given the date they expect to receive their official scores in the ETS account.
Key Takeaways by Smart Academy
TOEFL is one of the world’s most reputed and famous language proficiency tests that evaluates the communication and understanding level of those who want to explore academic and professional opportunities outside India.
TOEFL scores are valid all over the world for imparting educational, employability, and migration opportunities. Acing the TOEFL test can be a cakewalk for those who know about the nature of the exam. One needs to be single-minded and focused while preparing for the test.
FAQs
Can I reschedule my TOEFL exam?
Yes, you can reschedule your TOEFL exam if you are unable to appear on the scheduled day or time. ETS allows early rescheduling (7+ days before the exam) and late rescheduling (4-5 days before the exam) on your ETS account. However, it does not allow last-minute rescheduling.
Is TOEFL accepted in UK universities?
Yes, TOEFL scores are accepted in the UK universities. The minimum TOEFL score required to submit to these universities depends on the institution and course, which can be between 80-110.
What TOEFL score is required by universities in the USA?
The TOEFL score required to get to top universities in the USA is 90-100. However, it may depend on the institution and the academic course which the student wants to pursue.
How much does TOEFL cost in India?
The cost of the TOEFL exam in India is INR 16,900/-.
Is 70 a good score in TOEFL?
Generally, 80 is a good TOEFL score, which is an acceptable threshold in most overseas universities.
