The TOEFL exam (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is one of the most widely recognized standardized tests designed to measure English proficiency for non-native speakers. It is primarily used for admission into universities, scholarship programs, and professional certification around the world. Over the decades, TOEFL has established itself as a benchmark of academic English, trusted by more than 11,000 institutions in over 150 countries.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of the TOEFL exam, including its history, structure, scoring system, test formats, and preparation strategies.
History and Development of TOEFL
The TOEFL exam was first introduced in 1964 by the Center for Applied Linguistics, with the purpose of providing a reliable way for institutions to evaluate the English skills of international applicants. The Educational Testing Service (ETS), the organization that manages the SAT and GRE, took over its administration.
Initially, TOEFL was a paper-based test (PBT), which was later supplemented by the computer-based test (CBT) in the 1990s. The most significant transition came in 2005 with the introduction of the internet-based test (iBT). This format remains the most widely used version today, offering flexibility and a more integrated approach to testing English skills.
Why Take the TOEFL?
TOEFL is widely recognized by universities in the United States, making it the top choice for students planning to study there. However, it is also accepted by institutions in Canada, the UK, Australia, and many other countries. Beyond academic admissions, the exam is sometimes required for professional certifications in fields such as nursing, teaching, or business.
Some of the most common reasons to take TOEFL include:
- Admission into undergraduate or graduate programs.
- Meeting language requirements for scholarships.
- Professional licensing in English-speaking countries.
- Proving English proficiency for work visas.
TOEFL Formats
TOEFL iBT (Internet-Based Test)
The TOEFL iBT is the most common version, taken online at official test centers or at home with remote proctoring. It is designed to test how well candidates can use English in an academic context.
TOEFL iBT Home Edition
Launched in response to global restrictions on in-person testing, the Home Edition allows students to take the exam online from home, monitored through a secure proctoring system. The structure is the same as the regular iBT.
TOEFL Paper Edition
In some countries, ETS still offers a paper version. However, it differs from the old PBT. The modern Paper Edition splits the test into two parts: the Reading, Listening, and Writing sections are completed at a test center, while the Speaking section is taken at home using online proctoring.
Old Paper-Based Test (PBT) and Computer-Based Test (CBT)
These are no longer widely offered. The PBT was phased out in most locations by 2017, and the CBT had already been replaced by the iBT.
Test Structure
The TOEFL iBT is divided into four sections that reflect real academic situations.
1. Reading Section
- Time: 54–72 minutes
- Tasks: 3–4 academic passages, each about 700 words, followed by 10 questions.
- Skills tested: Understanding main ideas, vocabulary, inference, tone, and logical relationships in academic texts.
2. Listening Section
- Time: 41–57 minutes
- Tasks: Includes lectures (3–4) and conversations (2–3), followed by 28–39 questions.
- Skills tested: Identifying main points, details, speaker attitude, and recognizing the purpose of communication.
3. Speaking Section
- Time: 17 minutes
- Tasks: 4 tasks (1 independent task, 3 integrated tasks).
- Skills tested: Expressing personal opinions, integrating information from reading and listening, and clear academic speech.
4. Writing Section
- Time: 50 minutes
- Tasks: 2 tasks (1 integrated writing task based on reading and listening, 1 independent essay).
- Skills tested: Academic writing, argument structure, coherence, grammar, and vocabulary.
Scoring System
The TOEFL iBT uses a 0–120 scoring scale, with each section worth up to 30 points.
- Reading: 0–30
- Listening: 0–30
- Speaking: 0–30
- Writing: 0–30
Most universities require a total score between 80 and 100 for admission, though top universities may ask for 105 or higher. Individual section requirements may also be specified depending on the program.
The scores are valid for two years, after which candidates must retake the exam.
TOEFL vs. Other English Tests
TOEFL is often compared with IELTS, Cambridge exams, and PTE. Here are a few distinctions:
- TOEFL vs. IELTS: IELTS has both Academic and General Training versions, while TOEFL focuses on academic English. IELTS Speaking is face-to-face, but TOEFL Speaking is recorded. IELTS uses band scores from 1 to 9, while TOEFL has a point-based scale.
- TOEFL vs. Cambridge Exams: Cambridge tests (such as CAE or CPE) are seen as more traditional and are valid for life, unlike TOEFL’s two-year limit.
- TOEFL vs. PTE: The Pearson Test of English is entirely computer-based and uses AI scoring. PTE is gaining popularity but is not as widely recognized as TOEFL yet.
Test Availability and Fees
TOEFL iBT is offered more than 60 times a year at official test centers around the globe. Students can choose from in-person centers or online proctored exams.
The test fee ranges between $195 and $300 USD, depending on the country. Additional services such as score reviews, rescheduling, or extra score reports come with extra charges.
How to Register
Registration can be completed directly through the ETS website. Candidates create an account, select a test date and location (or the Home Edition), and pay the fee. Identification documents are required on the test day, typically a passport or government-issued ID.
TOEFL Preparation Strategies
1. Familiarize Yourself with the Format
Understanding the test format is critical since TOEFL requires time management. Practice with official sample tests from ETS to get a sense of question types and timing.
2. Improve Academic English
Unlike casual English exams, TOEFL uses university-style lectures, essays, and discussions. Reading academic articles and listening to lectures can help simulate this environment.
3. Practice Speaking on a Timer
The Speaking section is particularly challenging because it requires clear and concise responses within 45–60 seconds. Recording yourself and reviewing pronunciation, grammar, and vocabulary can be highly effective.
4. Develop Note-Taking Skills
TOEFL allows note-taking during the exam, especially important in the Listening and Speaking sections. Efficient note-taking can help capture key points without writing too much.
5. Writing Essays with Structure
Strong essays require a clear thesis, supporting arguments, and a conclusion. Practicing timed essays ensures you can finish within 50 minutes.
6. Use TOEFL Prep Materials
ETS provides official guides, practice tests, and even subscription-based online courses. Additionally, third-party publishers like Barron’s and Kaplan have extensive prep books.
Challenges of the TOEFL Exam
While TOEFL is trusted worldwide, it comes with certain challenges:
- Academic focus: Students looking for more general English proficiency certification may find IELTS or PTE more flexible.
- Speaking into a microphone: Some test-takers feel uncomfortable speaking without an examiner, especially in noisy test centers.
- Time pressure: Each section has strict timing, requiring efficient reading, listening, and speaking skills.
- Cost: The exam is relatively expensive, particularly when rescheduling or ordering additional score reports.
Future of TOEFL
ETS has made continuous updates to keep TOEFL relevant. Recent changes have shortened the test to just under 2 hours while maintaining its structure. Digital delivery options, like the Home Edition, reflect a growing shift toward online testing.
With the rise of AI scoring, TOEFL has also improved the fairness and accuracy of grading, particularly in Speaking and Writing. As global mobility continues, the demand for standardized English tests like TOEFL is unlikely to diminish in the near future.