The TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is a globally recognized exam that assesses English language skills and is accepted by over 11,000 universities, colleges, and organizations across more than 150 countries. This exam is particularly valuable if you aim to study or work in an English-speaking environment, as it verifies your ability to use and understand English in academic settings.
The TOEFL is especially popular and widely accepted by universities and colleges in the United States but is also commonly accepted in Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, New Zealand, and beyond. Since each institution or organization may have specific test requirements, it’s essential to check which English proficiency tests they accept.
The Listening section evaluates how well you can understand spoken English in various academic contexts. You’ll listen to lectures, discussions, and conversations commonly found in university settings, testing your ability to grasp main ideas, details, inferences, and speaker intentions.
The Reading section measures your ability to comprehend and analyze academic texts. You’ll read passages on various topics and answer questions that assess your understanding of the main ideas, vocabulary, and structural organization, as well as your ability to interpret information and draw logical conclusions.
The Writing section assesses your skill in producing clear and organized responses to academic tasks. You’ll complete tasks such as summarizing information from a reading or listening passage and writing an essay, demonstrating your ability to present ideas effectively and with proper structure.
The Speaking section measures your ability to communicate verbally in an academic setting. You’ll respond to questions and express your opinions on familiar topics, as well as summarize information from reading or listening material, showcasing your ability to speak clearly, coherently, and fluently.
Maximize your score on your first attempt with our proven four-step process:
Learn about the exam format, timing, and question types in each section. Knowing the structure will help you manage time effectively and approach questions with confidence.
Enhance your reading, writing, listening, and speaking abilities. Engage with academic texts, practice essay writing, listen to English media, and speak with native speakers to build fluency.
Take practice exams to identify strengths and areas for improvement. This builds familiarity with the test format, boosts time-management skills, and grows confidence.
After each practice test, analyze your answers to identify areas for improvement. Use this feedback to adjust your study plan and refine your test strategies, ensuring steady progress for exam day.
It’s best to begin TOEFL preparation at least 2-3 months before your test date, though this can vary based on your current English proficiency level.
TOEFL scores are valid for two years from the test date, after which you’ll need to retake the test if you still require an active score.
You can take the TOEFL as many times as needed, with a 12-day gap between tests. Your highest score can be sent to institutions if you choose.
There is no passing score for the TOEFL; required scores vary by institution or program. Most universities provide a minimum score they expect from applicants.
The TOEFL consists of four sections: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing, each designed to evaluate your proficiency in English within an academic setting.
The TOEFL test fee varies by country, typically ranging from $180 to $300. It’s advisable to check the exact cost on the official TOEFL website for your location.
No, calculators are not allowed during the TOEFL. However, you will be provided with scratch paper for notes during the exam.
TOEFL scores are usually available online within 6-10 days after taking the test. Official score reports are sent to selected institutions shortly afterward.