What is TOEFL?
The TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is a standardized test that measures the English language proficiency of non-native English speakers. It’s commonly used by universities, colleges, and immigration authorities as a reliable assessment of a student’s ability to understand and use English in an academic setting. The TOEFL is accepted in over 150 countries, including popular study destinations like the USA, Canada, the UK, and Australia.
Types of TOEFL Exams!
The Pearson Test of English (TOEFL) offers two main types of tests:
TOEFL iBT
TOEFL PBT
Each test serves different purposes and is tailored to meet the specific needs of candidates. Understanding the differences between these test types is crucial for selecting the one that aligns with your goals.
TOEFL IBT
The TOEFL iBT, the most widely accepted and preferred version, is taken online at authorized test centers and includes four sections: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing. It’s scored on a scale from 0 to 120 and takes about three hours to complete, with each section scored from 0 to 30. This format is ideal for most students, as it is widely accepted by universities, colleges, and immigration agencies around the world.
TOEFL PBT
TOEFL PBT is a paper-based version only available in areas without the internet or technology needed for the iBT. It includes Reading, Listening, Writing, and a section called Structure and Written Expression (Grammar) but lacks the Speaking section. The PBT scores range from 310 to 677 and takes approximately 2.5 hours to complete. While less common than the iBT, it’s a valuable option in regions with limited digital access.
TOEFL IBT Test Format
1. The Reading section lasts 54–72 minutes and includes 3–4 academic passages with 10 questions each, assessing comprehension of written texts.
2. In the Listening section, which takes 41–57 minutes, you’ll encounter 3–4 academic lectures and 2–3 conversations, each followed by questions to test understanding of spoken English in an academic context.
3. The Speaking section is 17 minutes long and includes four tasks, where you’ll express opinions on familiar topics and respond to reading and listening prompts.
TOEFL Exam Structure!
The TOEFL iBT test format consists of four sections. Its total duration is about three hours.
Listening
Speaking
Reading
Writing
Each section evaluates specific language skills and contribute to your overall score which ranges from 0 - 120.
TOEFL PBT Test Format
1. The Listening Comprehension section lasts 30–40 minutes and includes about 50 questions divided into three parts: short conversations, longer discussions, and extended talks or mini-lectures, assessing the test-taker’s ability to understand spoken English in various academic and conversational contexts.
2. The Structure and Written Expression section, lasting 25 minutes, has 40 questions focusing on English grammar and sentence structure.
3. The Reading Comprehension section is 55 minutes long with 50 questions based on academic passages, measuring vocabulary and understanding of complex texts.
TOEFL Exam Structure!
The TOEFL PBT consists of four sections:
Listening
Speaking
Reading
Writing
Each section evaluates specific language skills and contribute to your overall score which ranges from 310 - 677.
How to Register for TOEFL Exam:
2. Select Your Test Type and Location
3. Pick a Test Date and Time
4. Confirm Your Registration
5. Make Payment
6. Prepare for Test Day
7. Receive Your Results
TOEFL Exam Fee!
The TOEFL exam fee varies depending on the country where you take the test. Generally, the cost ranges from $180 to $325 USD.