Start Your FREE 2024 TOEFL Test Practice Test

• About the TOEFL
  • Reading
  • Writing
  • Listening
  • Speaking
• Sections of the TOEFL Test
  • Listening
  • Reading
• What to Expect on Test Day
  • What to Bring
  • What Not to Bring
• Best Ways to Study for the TOEFL
  • Take TOEFL Practice Tests
  • Use Alternative Study Methods
  • Simulate the Testing Experience
• TOEFL Tips and Tricks
  • Read Every Day
  • View Content in English
  • Practice Typing
• TOEFL FAQ:
  • 1. How much does it cost to take the TOEFL?
  • 2. How long will it take to get my scores?
  • 3. How long are my scores valid?
  • 4. Can I retake the TOEFL?
  • 5. How do I know if my TOEFL scores will be accepted?

About the TOEFL

The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is used to measure the English language proficiency of non-native speakers at a college or university level. The TOEFL measures proficiency in speaking, listening, reading, and writing.

The exam was originally developed in the mid-1960s by the Center for Applied Linguistics. In 1973, a cooperative was formed to manage the test that included ETS, the College Board, and the Graduate Record Examinations board of advisers. ETS administers the exam under the direction of the TOEFL board.

There are two versions of the TOEFL, the TOEFL iBT and a newer, shorter version, the TOEFL Essentials. An alternative paper version, the TOEFL PBT, was retired in April 2021.

Each version is divided into four sections: Reading, Writing, Speaking, and Listening. Here is a breakdown of what to expect in each section of the TOEFL iBT:

Reading

Examinees will have 35 minutes to read two passages and respond to 20 questions (10 questions per passage).

Writing

Examinees will have 29 minutes to perform two tasks. For the first task, you will read a passage, listen to a recording, and then type a response. The second task involves writing an opinion with supporting details in an online classroom discussion.

Listening

This section contains 28 questions about brief lectures or classroom discussions. The time limit for this section is 36 minutes.

Speaking

Examinees have 16 minutes to complete four tasks. For each task, you must talk about a familiar topic and discuss material you read and listened to.

The TOEFL is scored between 0 and 120, with 30 points allocated for each section. There is a feature that allows your top scores from any session in the past two years to display on your score report. Getting a great score on the TOEFL requires thoroughly preparing for all four sections of the exam.

Sections of the TOEFL Test

Listening

The Listening section of the TOEFL requires you to gain meaning from oral lectures and conversations. Before the first question about each recording, you will listen to each recording once, then answer multiple-choice questions about what you heard. You will not be able to listen to the recording again. Some questions have more than one correct answer, and others may ask you to put events in sequence or place information in the proper place on a chart or table.

Reading

The Reading section of the TOEFL assesses your ability to read passages in English about a variety of topics at a college/university reading level. You will need to be able to understand what the passage is saying and answer multiple-choice questions about what it says directly and what can be inferred from the author’s words. The key to success on this part of the TOEFL is your ability to note key words and phrases as you read. You’ll need to be able to pick out details and determine the organization of the passage, as well.

What to Expect on Test Day

Be sure to arrive at the test center at least 30 minutes before your testing time to allow time to check in. The total test takes approximately two hours to complete, but examinees should plan to be at the testing center for at least two and a half hours to allow time for registration and exam instructions. It’s a good idea to review the testing center’s policies and procedures before you arrive so that you are familiar with what is allowed and what isn’t.

What to Bring

You will need to bring at least two forms of valid, legal identification that contain a photograph and signature. They cannot be copies or be expired. The name on the documents must exactly match the name used to register for the test.

What Not to Bring

You will be given noise-reducing headphones and a microphone to be used in different areas of the test. Testing centers also have scratch paper for examinees who need it. Aside from the materials provided and your identification, no other personal items are allowed in the testing room. Phones, smartwatches, and other electronic devices are prohibited in the testing area.

Best Ways to Study for the TOEFL

Take TOEFL Practice Tests

Languages are difficult to learn, but the more you practice, the easier it becomes to listen, speak, read, and write in a non-native language. While taking the TOEFL can be incredibly stressful, one way to reduce stress and ensure you are ready to perform well is by taking plenty of TOEFL practice tests. These exams help you practice and master all aspects of the English language. Further, they can help you understand what to expect on the exam itself and become more comfortable with the format of the TOEFL questions.

Use Alternative Study Methods

Using alternative study methods can be another way to reinforce information that you will need to know for the exam. Flashcards for the TOEFL can be especially helpful in recognizing the difference between words that sound the same or look the same but have a different meaning in different contexts. Study guides for the TOEFL can also come in handy as a way to ensure that you don’t overlook any of the material you should review to prepare for the exam.

Simulate the Testing Experience

The TOEFL is a timed exam, which can add to the stress of taking it. For many examinees, it is helpful to simulate the overall testing experience at least a couple of times before exam day. These simulations can help individuals understand how to best pace themselves to complete all of the questions and how to overcome any mental fatigue that may set in as time goes by.

TOEFL Tips and Tricks

Read Every Day

The more you use a language, the better you will understand it. Reading is a great way for non-native English speakers to build their vocabulary. Reading aloud can help with pronunciation and will also help with the Speaking section of the TOEFL.

View Content in English

Many people watch the news or consume entertainment materials in their native language, since it is more comfortable. While preparing for the TOEFL, though, it is helpful to read or watch English-language materials. Watching or listening to others speak in English is another great way to get comfortable with the language.

Practice Typing

Comprehension is only part of the equation when it comes to doing well on the TOEFL. Many responses must be typed. Non-native English speakers who are unfamiliar with the QWERTY keyboard should spend time learning it well before the exam.

TOEFL FAQ:

1. How much does it cost to take the TOEFL?

In the United States, the fee for the TOEFL is $255. If you live outside of the US, the fees may be different. There are also additional costs for late registration, rescheduling, additional score reports, and reviews of specific scores.

2. How long will it take to get my scores?

Examinees will be able to view their scores in the Reading and Listening sections once they have completed the entire exam. The remaining scores are generally available online four to eight days after taking the test.

3. How long are my scores valid?

TOEFL scores are valid and will be reported by ETS for two years after the test date.

4. Can I retake the TOEFL?

Yes, although you must wait at least three days before taking the exam again. There is no limit on the number of retakes.

5. How do I know if my TOEFL scores will be accepted?

Every institution has different TOEFL requirements. Most accept TOEFL iBT scores, but not all have adopted the use of TOEFL Essentials, as it is a newer offering. Before signing up to take the TOEFL, it’s advised you check if your desired institution accepts TOEFL scores.