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Everything you need to know about the TOEFL Test
- About the TOEFL
- Sections of the TOEFL Test
- What to Expect on Test Day
- Best Ways to Study for the TOEFL
- TOEFL Tips and Tricks
- TOEFL FAQ:
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 advisors. ETS administers the exam under the direction of the TOEFL board.
There are two versions of the TOEFL, the TOEFL iBT and a formerly 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, Listening, Writing, and Speaking. The sections are always delivered in this order. Here is a breakdown of what to expect in each section of the TOEFL iBT:
Reading
Examinees will have 30 minutes to complete three tasks: Complete the Words, Read in Daily Life, and Read an Academic Passage. There are a total of 35 to 48 questions in the Reading section. The number depends on your performance.
Listening
This section contains a total of up to 47 questions concerning four listening tasks:
- Listen and Choose a Response
- Listen to a Conversation
- Listen to an Announcement
- Listen to an Academic Talk
The time limit for this section is 29 minutes.
Writing
Examinees will have 23 minutes in total to perform three tasks, but each task will be timed separately. You will have six minutes for the Build a Sentence task, seven minutes for the Write an Email task, and 10 minutes for the Write for an Academic Discussion task.
Speaking
Examinees have eight minutes to answer 11 questions while completing two tasks: Listen and Repeat and Take an Interview.
Note: The speaking section has been moved to the end of the test for the 2026 test version.
Each section of the TOEFL is scored between 1 and 6, and you will be given a total score that is an average of your scores on the four sections. 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 one and one-half hours to complete, but examinees should plan to be at the testing center for at least two 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 and isn’t allowed.
What to Bring
You will need to bring at least two forms of valid, legal identification that contain a photograph, date of birth, and signature. They cannot be copies or expired. The name on the documents must exactly match the name used to register for the test. See the TOEFL Bulletin for specific ID requirements.
What Not to Bring
Testing centers provide scratch paper or a whiteboard for examinees who need it. Aside from the materials provided and your identification, no other personal items are allowed in the testing room. That includes phones, smartwatches, and other electronic devices, which are all 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 tests 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 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. It’s also a good idea to simulate the timing of specific sections of the test. 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
Most people watch the news and consume entertainment materials in their native language, since it is more comfortable. While preparing for the TOEFL, though, it is helpful to read and 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.
Be Familiar with the 2026 TOEFL
There are quite a few differences between the former TOEFL and the 2026 edition. Be familiar with these, so you will not be surprised on test day.
TOEFL FAQ:
1. Will I have a break during the TOEFL?
No, no breaks are scheduled, so you will need to complete the entire test in one sitting.
2. How much does it cost to take the TOEFL?
In the United States, the fee for the TOEFL is $270. If you live outside the US, the fees may be different. There are also additional costs for late registration, rescheduling, additional score reports, and reviews of specific scores.
3. How long will it take to get my scores?
You will be able to access your TOEFL scores online within 72 hours of testing. Reports by mail will arrive between 11 and 15 days after you take the test.
4. How long are my scores valid?
TOEFL scores are valid for two years after the test date.
5. 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.
6. 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 that you check if your desired institution accepts TOEFL scores by scrolling down on the linked page.