TOEFL Exam Overview

New in TOEFL

ETS recently released the following new updates for the TOEFL exam 2023. 

• TOEFL iBT duration has been shortened. Starting July 26th, test takers can complete the exam in 2 hours. The exam will also include a new test format. 
• TOEFL iBT fee has now increased to ₹16,900. 
• TOEFL iBT will be accepted for Canada SDS, starting August 10th.
• Australia has temporarily stopped accepting TOEFL iBT for visas from July 26, 2023.
   

The TOEFL, or Test of English as a Foreign Language, is a widely recognised English proficiency test for non-native English speakers.
 

The TOEFL exam is highly regarded and accepted by universities, colleges, and institutions in the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, and others.

The TOEFL exam evaluates your English proficiency in four key areas: 

• Reading
• Listening
• Speaking
• Writing
   

These sections are designed to measure your ability to comprehend written and spoken English, as well as your ability to communicate and express yourself in English effectively.

There are two types of TOEFL exams. The main version of TOEFL tests your English academically and is offered in two variants: 

• Internet-based (iBT ) 
• Paper-based (PBT)

TOEFL iBT is the most popular version and is available throughout the year. TOEFL iBT also has an at-home edition called TOEFL Essentials, meaning the test can be taken from the comfort of your home. The paper-based version is largely discontinued and is available only in a few locations. 
 

The TOEFL Essentials tests your everyday English. TOEFL Essentials is much shorter than TOEFL iBT. 

TOEFL scores are released within 4-8 from the test date. 
 

The cost of the TOEFL IBT exam in India for 2023 is ₹16,900. TOEFL Essentials, on the other hand, costs ₹9,851. 

At a glance:

TOEFL Score

TOEFL awards a score of 0-30 for all four sections based on your proficiency. You also get an overall score of 0-120 based on the individual scores.

The scoring system of TOEFL is plain and simple: For every right answer, you score a point. There is no negative marking for wrong answers.

Here’s what your scores for individual sections mean.

How is TOEFL Scored?

TOEFL uses a combination of AI and Certified human evaluators to carefully assesses your Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening skills. The use of AI enables faster result generation and can produce an unbiased result. But human evaluators are necessary as they can better evaluate the creativity in your ideas and your general communication skills. 

TOEFL Score Validity

TOEFL is valid for two years from the date of the result. If you wish to use your TOEFL scores, you must do it in this timeframe. After two years, your TOEFL scores will be considered invalid. The validity of TOEFL scores is created to ensure that your language skills are up-to-date. 

Combining your scores: TOEFL MyBest™ scores

TOEFL MyBest scores are also known as TOEFL superscores. If you have attempted TOEFL multiple times, you can combine your highest scores from all the tests you have taken to show your overall performance. 

You can find your TOEFL MyBest scores on your TOEFL iBT score report.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What is a good TOEFL score for university admission?

A. A good TOEFL score for university admission varies depending on the institution and program. Generally, you need a minimum score of 90 and above for competitive undergraduate programs, while scores above 100 are preferred for graduate programs.

Q. How long are TOEFL scores valid?

A. TOEFL scores are typically valid for two years from the test date. After the expiration date, the scores are no longer considered official, and you may need to retake the exam if your scores have expired. We also recommend checking with the university if they have any specific validity requirements. 
 

Q. Is getting 110 in TOEFL easy?

A. Scoring 110 in TOEFL seems impossible but can be achieved with the right preparation strategies. Plan your exam, and opt for extra coaching if required. With enough practice, you can get a high score. 110 in TOEFL is considered an exceptional score, and getting anywhere close to it can help you get into competitive courses in excellent universities. 
 

Q. Is there a pass or fail in TOEFL? 

A. No. Most English language proficiency tests don’t have a pass-or-fail system. These tests only indicate your proficiency level. However, most universities require a score over 90 for admissions. A score below 80 is usually considered low and suggests that your language skills must improve significantly before moving to an English-speaking country.

TOEFL Fee

The newly updated fee for TOEFL iBT is ₹16,900. You can pay the fee during the registration process. 
 

The deadline to pay the fee and register is seven days before the test date. If you try to register any later than that, you will have to pay an additional fee of ₹3,900. 

Here is a fee breakdown for TOEFL.

TOEFL Cancellation & Rescheduling Fee

If you wish to reschedule your TOEFL exam, you must pay an additional charge of ₹5,900.

There are separate charges for Cancellations, and it varies depending on when you cancel. You'll receive a partial refund if you cancel at least four days before the test date. Cancellations any later than that will not be refunded. 

Reviewing and Cancelling TOEFL Scores

You can request a review if you are dissatisfied with your TOEFL scores. Review only applies to Speaking and Writing sections and costs INR 7,900 for one section.

You also have the option to cancel your scores if you’re unhappy with it. If you cancel your scores, they will not be sent to universities. ETS charges a fee for cancellations of scores.

Below is an overview of all TOEFL Special handling fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q.  Are there any additional charges for rescheduling the TOEFL exam?

A. You must pay an additional fee of ₹5,900 to reschedule your exam. You cannot reschedule or cancel your exam later than four days before the test. If you try to cancel any later than four days, you will not be given a refund. However, cancelling before four days can get you a partial refund. 
 

Q. Is there a fee to send TOEFL scores to universities?

A. You can send your scores to the first four universities free of cost. However, you will have to pay an additional fee of INR 1,950 per university after the first four. You can add or modify the first four universities till 10 pm on the day before your exam. Universities can be added through your ETS account at any time.
 

Q. Can I pay the TOEFL exam fee at the test centre in cash?

A. No. The registration process is completed online through your ETS account or by mail. You can also register over the phone, but these modes require an online fee payment. You can pay the TOEFL fee using credit cards, debit cards, e-cheques or a PayPal account. You also have the option to mail a paper cheque or money order. 

TOEFL Dates

ETS conducts TOEFL throughout the year so that you can choose TOEFL dates at your convenience. However, we recommend booking well ahead of time. As per ETS, you must register for at least four months to get your desired date and slot.
 

The last date to register for TOEFL iBT would be seven days before your desired date. 
 

TOEFL Essential is an online test conducted once or twice weekly, typically on Saturdays and Sundays. Slots are available 24 hours a day.

TOEFL iBT Dates 2023: Hyderabad

TOEFL iBT Dates 2023: Bengaluru

TOEFL iBT Dates 2023: Chennai

TOEFL iBT Dates 2023: Noida

Click here to check the dates for all months of 2023. 

TOEFL Home Edition Dates 2023

TOEFL Home Edition dates are available on almost all days of the week except on Thursdays and Fridays. This may vary occasionally, so always check the official website for the latest updates.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. How early should I register for the TOEFL exam to get my preferred date?

A. ETS suggests registering four months in advance to get your desired date. Registering early increases your chances of getting the preferred date, especially if you’re taking the test in major cities like Bangalore or Calcutta. If slots are still available, you can register as late as seven days before the preferred date.

Q. Can I change my TOEFL test date after registering?

A. Yes, you can change your TOEFL test date. You may reschedule your test through your ETS account online, but keep in mind that rescheduling fees may apply if you make changes within a certain period. You can also cancel your TOEFL exam, but extra charges might apply depending on when you cancel. 
 

Q. Can I retake TOEFL after three days? 

A. Yes, you can retake TOEFL as soon as three days after your exam. You can also retake the exam as many times as you like, although remember that you’ll have to pay the full fee each time. We highly recommend retaking the test only after you have time to assess your performance and prepare again. 
 

Q. Can I take TOEFL Essential from the test centre? 

A. As per ETS, TOEFL Essential can only be taken at home. The test is available once or twice a month, usually on weekends. You can schedule slots as soon as 24 hours post-registration. TOEFL iBT, on the other hand, can be taken from a test centre and at home. Although to get your preferred date, you must register early.

TOEFL Pattern

Latest Update: To make the test easier and keep it relevant with time, ETS has revised the format and syllabus of the TOEFL iBT exam. Starting July 26th, the TOEFL is two hours long. Here is the breakdown of the duration for each section. 
 

The new TOEFL format includes four sections: Speaking, Reading, Writing, and Listening. The latest update shows a few significant changes in the Reading, Writing and Listening sections. The questions have been trimmed down and revised to assess candidates better.

You get sufficient time for each section of the exam. The sections range from 17mins to 72 minutes. 
 

Below is a breakdown of TOEFL sections.

TOEFL Syllabus

The syllabus of the TOEFL exam includes discussion on everyday contexts, academic subjects, global issues, cultural scenarios, and general knowledge. 
 

Each section assesses a different skill, such as spoken English, vocabulary, written English, interpretation of complex information, general comprehension and communication skills. 
 

• TOEFL Reading tests your ability to read and comprehend complex information 
• TOEFL Listening tests your ability to derive understanding from spoken English. It helps the examiner understand how well you can keep up with the lectures and other conversations. 
• TOEFL Writing is designed to understand how well you can communicate your ideas on paper.
• TOEFL Speaking checks your spoken English. The main focus is on your language skills and fluency.

TOEFL Format

Below is a comparison between the old and new formats of the TOEFL exam.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What is the TOEFL syllabus? 

A. The TOEFL syllabus covers four sections: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing. It evaluates a test taker's English language proficiency in academic contexts.

Q. Does TOEFL have a negative marking? 

A.  No, TOEFL does not have negative markings. Test takers are not penalised for incorrect answers, so it is beneficial to attempt all questions. Correct answers will get you one point, and wrong answers will not be marked anything. You need a minimum score of 90 to get university admissions.

Q. Is TOEFL tough? 

A. The difficulty of the TOEFL exam depends on your English language proficiency. It requires a good understanding of English grammar, vocabulary, and reading comprehension. With proper preparation, it is possible to achieve a high score.
 

Q: Can I prepare for TOEFL at home? 

A. Yes, you can prepare for TOEFL at home. Resources such as practice tests, study guides, and online courses are available on multiple platforms, which can greatly help self-study!  Self-study can be effective, but it's essential to create a structured study plan and dedicate enough time to each section.

Q: What are the four sections of TOEFL? 

A. TOEFL is divided into four sections: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing. The Reading section consists of passages followed by comprehension questions. The Listening section includes lectures and conversations with corresponding questions. The Speaking section involves responding to prompts orally. Lastly, the Writing section requires test takers to write essays based on given topics.

TOEFL Result

Latest update:  As per the new update, you will now receive a notification informing the exact date of when your results.
 

TOEFL iBT results are typically released within 4-8 days of the exam. You can view your TOEFL results by logging into your ETS account and heading to the result section. 
 

Below are the minimum TOEFL requirements for popular study-abroad destinations, though keep in mind that the requirements vary depending on the university.

Sending your TOEFL iBT Scores to Universities
 

ETS allows your scores to 4 universities completely free of charge. You can add or modify the universities you wish to send your scores to until 10 PM on the day before your test date. 
 

If you wish to send your scores to more than four universities, you must pay an additional charge of  ₹1,950 per university. The timeframe for sending scores depends on the mode of delivery you choose. 
 

You can send your scores in the following ways: 

• Online: Request an additional score report by paying INR 1,950 per university. You can complete the payment online, and the universities will receive your scores in 3-5 days. 
• Fax: You can fill out the ‘TOEFL iBT Additional Score Report Request Form’ PDF and fax it to 1-610-290-8972. 
• Mail: Fill out the same  ‘TOEFL iBT Additional Score Report Request Form’ PDF and mail it to the address: ETS-TOEFL iBT; P.O. Box 6153; Princeton, NJ 08541-6153; USA

Note: Not all universities accept TOEFL Home Edition, so it’s best to check the specific requirements thoroughly before you opt for the test.

Sending your TOEFL Essentials Score to Institutions

ETS will post TOEFL Essentials scores on your account within 5-8 days. You can send the scores to as many institutions as you like without any limit. Your scores are valid for two years.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. When can I expect my TOEFL results

A. You can expect to receive your TOEFL results within 6 to 10 days after your test date. The TOEFL iBT scores are usually available online through your ETS account. Once the scores are ready, you will receive an email notification from ETS, prompting you to log in and view your scores. The quick turnaround time ensures you can promptly use your TOEFL scores for university applications or other purposes.

Q. What is a good TOEFL result?

A. A good TOEFL result depends on the requirements of the universities you plan to apply. Generally, a good TOEFL iBT score falls within the range of 80 to 100. Top-ranking universities usually have high score requirements (between 100-115). Also, courses with advanced level understanding will demand a higher score.

Q. Can I send my TOEFL scores to multiple universities?

A. Yes, you can send your scores to 4 universities free of cost. Anything above that will require an additional fee of   INR 1,950. After registering for the exam, you can select the universities to send your scores. You can modify the list till 10 PM on the day before your exam.

TOEFL Registration

TOEFL registration is an easy and fast process that can be completed in minutes. As per the new TOEFL update, the registration process has been made much simpler. 

TOEFL Registration Online

You can register online by creating an ETS account. Follow these steps to register. 
 

• Visit the official ETS TOEFL website.
• Create an ETS account.
• Select your preferred test date and location from the available options.
• Complete the registration form with your details.
• Pay the TOEFL exam fee using a valid payment method.

You can also register by phone or through mail. 

TOEFL Registration by Phone
 

To register for TOEFL by phone, call the Regional Registration Centre at 91-124-4147700. You will be asked to state your name and other personal details. 
 

Note:

• Your name must be spelt correctly
• Your name must match your ID (Passport) 
• You can only register before 5 pm (local time) 
   

You can pay through a credit/debit card to complete the registration.

TOEFL Registration by Mail

To register via mail, download the TOEFL iBT registration form PDF. Fill out the form, and ensure your details are error-free. You can mail the form to the address given in the PDF. You must send the form at least four weeks before your test date. 
 

Based on the information provided, you will be assigned a test date and centre.  

TOEFL Registration Fees

Documents Required for TOEFL Registration
 

The main document you require for TOEFL registration is your ID. You can use a valid passport for your identification. Recently, ETS has started accepting Aadhar cards as well for identification.
 

It’s important to ensure that the name you enter during registration matches that on your ID.  

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. How can I register for the TOEFL exam?

A. Use the following steps to register: 

1. Create an ETS account on the website

2. Select the test date and location

3. Fill out personal details 

4. Pay the fee and complete the registration.
 

Q. What is the registration fee for the TOEFL iBT exam?

A. The TOEFL exam fee varies based on the location and format of the test (iBT or paper-based). Below is the fee structure as per the latest update.

Q. What identification documents are required for TOEFL registration?

A. A valid and government-issued ID is mandatory for TOEFL registration. You can use a valid passport for identification. You must ensure that the ID provided during registration matches the one you will bring on the test day and that the name on the ID matches the one on your registration form. 

Q. Can I cancel my TOEFL registration and get a refund?

A. If you cancel within the given timeframe (at least four days before the test), you can get up to 50% refund. If you cancel any later than that, you will receive no refund. These refunds do not apply to any test materials or practice tests you purchased from ETS and only apply to the registration fee.

 

TOEFL Books

TOEFL books are usually an all-in-one resource with section-wise study materials and practice tests. Books can be a great source of knowledge, especially if you plan to self-study. 
 

Some of the best TOEFL books include: 
 

• The Official Guide to the TOEFL iBT Test (Latest Version)
• The TOEFL iBT Test Prep Planner
• Official TOEFL iBT Tests, Volumes 1 & 2
• TOEFL Preparation Book, 2020 and 2021 by Test Prep Books
• TOEFL iBT Prep, 2021 by The Princeton Review
• TOEFL Integrated Study Guide by Manhattan Review

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What books should I read for TOEFL preparation?

A. The Official Guide to the TOEFL iBT Test (Latest Version), The TOEFL iBT Test Prep Planner and Official TOEFL iBT Tests, Volumes 1 & 2 are some of the best books for TOEFL preparation. You can also watch videos or opt for online coaching as an alternative to TOEFL books. 
 

Q. Are there any free TOEFL books available online?

A. Yes, there are some free TOEFL books and resources available online. ETS, the organisation that administers the TOEFL, offers free materials you can access. Several other websites offer free practice questions and study materials. Many forums have regular discussions on TOEFL topics which can help too.

Q. Can I use IELTS books/materials for TOEFL?

A. You can use IELTS books to understand the sections, as they are identical. However, the IELTS book alone can’t help you score well in TOEFL. Sometimes referring to two books can even confuse you. Though the tests are similar, the format and types of questions are different and need individual attention. Use TOEFL books for TOEFL preparation for the best chances of scoring. 

TOEFL Eligibility

ETS has not officially declared any eligibility restrictions, which means anyone can take the TOEFL exam. However, it is generally preferred that you have studied at least till high school and are over 16 years old before taking the exam. 
 

Since the exam is usually taken to move abroad for studies, it is best to check with the universities for any exceptions or specific eligibility requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Is there an age limit for taking the TOEFL exam?

A. No, ETS has not declared any specifications related to eligibility. Although, it is generally preferred that you are at least 16 years of age before you take the exam, as you will have a better chance of passing it. Since TOEFL scores are usually sent to universities, you adhere to university eligibility guidelines if there are any.
 

Q. Can I take the TOEFL exam if English is not my first language?

A. Yes, the test is specifically designed for non-native English speakers. Scoring well in TOEFL is proof that though English is not your first language, you still have the ability to communicate your thoughts and interpret complex information in English. This is a sign that you will be able to thrive in an English-speaking country, and you will have no trouble fitting in with the locals. 
 

Q. Which countries accept TOEFL? 

A. The USA, UK, Canada, Australia and New Zealand are among the countries that accept TOEFL scores for university admissions. The score requirements may differ depending on the university you apply to, but most universities easily accept TOEFL scores above 90 for most courses.

TOEFL Sample Paper

TOEFL preparation is incomplete without TOEFL Sample papers. Sample papers can be a great way to familiarise yourself with the format and pattern before attempting the actual test. 
 

Experts recommend taking mock tests regularly during preparation as they offer great insight into your strengths and weaknesses. 
 

You can also get a real-time experience of managing your time effectively during the real version. 

You can find sample papers for free online and on the ETS website. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Is TOEFL a difficult exam?

A. TOEFL is easy if you prepare right. Yes, it can be difficult if you are a beginner in English. But, if you speak and understand English, you can score well with the right preparation strategies. The first step is to assess where you stand and make a study plan according to your strengths and weaknesses. 
 

Q. How do TOEFL sample papers differ from the actual exam?

A. TOEFL sample papers are designed to give you the exam's actual feel but are not the same. While the content and question types are similar, the difficulty level and specific questions may vary slightly from the real test. Questions in the sample paper don’t often appear precisely the same way in the actual test.
 

Q. Where can I get TOEFL sample papers for free? 

A. Several websites offer TOEFL sample papers, including the official website of TOEFL: ETS. You can also find discussions and videos on TOEFL that can help you prepare for it. We have a dedicated page for sample papers. Click here to get the full list!

TOEFL Slot Booking

TOEFL iBT can be taken from 39 cities around India, including some major cities like Bangalore, Delhi, Chennai, and Ahmedabad. 
 

You can select the city and centre close to you during registration. Once again, booking early will increase your chances of getting the preferred destination. 

TOEFL Test Centre

The following are a few cities on the list.

On the test day, you must bring your ID; if you're taking the Paper-based test, you must get pencils and an eraser. 
 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. How do I find TOEFL test centres near me?

A. To find TOEFL test centres near you, visit the official ETS website and use the search tool to find the location nearby. You will then see a calendar indicating the dates available. You can choose a date and location that's convenient for you. Ensure that you confirm the location once again before the day of your exam to ensure there are no cancellations or changes.  

Q. How many TOEFL test centres are there in India?

A. India has around 39 TOEFL test centres, covering major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Kolkata. These cities have multiple test centres to accommodate many test-takers and are usually the busiest. Ideally, you should choose a centre that’s close to you so you can cut the stress of travelling on the exam day.  

Q. Should you take TOEFL from home or at the test centre? 

A. You can take TOEFL from your home and the centre. All universities and countries do not accept the TOEFL home edition, so best check with the university you’re applying to before opting for the home edition. If you wish to take the exam at the centre, you’ll be happy to know that over 39 cities in India have multiple TOEFL test centres!