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 speakers. It is 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. TOEFL is accepted in over 150 countries, including popular study destinations such as 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 a different purpose and is tailored to meet the specific needs of candidates. Understanding the differences between these test types is crucial for selecting the one that best 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 is scored on a scale of 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 recognized by universities, colleges, and immigration agencies worldwide.
TOEFL PBT
The TOEFL PBT is a paper-based version available only in areas without internet access or the technology required for the IBT. It includes Reading, Listening, Writing, and a section called Structure and Written Expression (Grammar) but does not include the Speaking section. The PBT scores range from 310 to 677, and the test takes approximately 2.5 hours to complete. While less common than the IBT, it remains a valuable option in regions with limited digital access.
TOEFL IBT Test Format
The Reading section lasts 54 to 72 minutes and includes 3–4 academic passages with 10 questions each, assessing comprehension of written texts.
The Listening section lasts 41 to 57 minutes and includes 3–4 academic lectures and 2–3 conversations, each followed by questions that test understanding of spoken English in an academic context.
The Speaking section lasts 17 minutes and consists of four tasks, where you 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
The Listening Comprehension section lasts 30 to 40 minutes and includes about 50 questions divided into three parts: short conversations, longer discussions, and extended talks or mini-lectures. It assesses the test-taker’s ability to understand spoken English in various academic and conversational contexts.
The Structure and Written Expression section lasts 25 minutes and consists of 40 questions focusing on English grammar and sentence structure.
The Reading Comprehension section lasts 55 minutes and includes 50 questions based on academic passages, measuring vocabulary and comprehension 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. Complete Payment
6. Prepare for Test Day
7. Receive Your Results
TOEFL Exam Fee!
The TOEFL exam fee varies depending on the country where the test is taken. Generally, the cost ranges from $180 to $325 USD.