Test of English as a Foreign Language
The most widely accepted English test for universities in the United States
Quick Stats
What is TOEFL iBT?
TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based Test) is the most widely accepted English test at North American universities. As of January 2026, TOEFL uses a new multi-stage adaptive format with a shorter test duration and a new 1–6 band scoring scale (running alongside the legacy 0–120 scale during a transition period through 2028).
TOEFL iBT
For university entry and postgraduate study, primarily in the USA and Canada.
TOEFL iBT Home Edition
Online proctored version. Same format, same scoring, same validity.
Test Format
| Section | Parts | Questions | Duration | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Reading | 2 | 30–48 (adaptive) | ~25–35 min | Adaptive multi-stage format. 2 passages with 15–20 questions each. |
Listening | 3 | Variable | ~25–35 min | Lectures and conversations. Adaptive format. Notes allowed. |
Speaking | 2 | 11 | ~8 min | Two 2026 task types: Listen and Repeat (7) and Take an Interview (4). |
Writing | 3 | 3 tasks | ~16 min | Build a Sentence, Write an Email, and Writing for an Academic Discussion. |
Scoring System
TOEFL iBT uses a 1–6 (band) / 0–120 (comparable estimate) scale. Each skill (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking) is scored individually, then combined into an overall score.
Band 6 (Expert)
Legacy 114–120 — Top universities
Band 5 (Advanced)
Legacy 94–113 — Graduate programs
Band 4 (High Intermediate)
Legacy 72–93 — Most universities
Band 3 (Intermediate)
Legacy 53–71 — Community colleges
Band 2 (Basic)
Legacy 24–52 — Below most thresholds
Who Accepts It
United States
- University Entry (11,500+ institutions)
- Graduate School
- Scholarships
Canada
- University Entry (select institutions)
Worldwide
- 160+ countries, 11,500+ institutions accept TOEFL
How to Register
- 1
Create an account at ets.org/toefl
- 2
Find a test centre and available dates near you
- 3
Register and pay the fee (approx. USD $245 in North America)
- 4
Receive admission ticket and test centre instructions
- 5
Scores released 4–8 days after the test date
- 6
Request score reports for up to 4 institutions for free on test day
Test Day Tips
The new adaptive format means harder questions appear if you answer well. This is a good sign — stay focused.
Speaking now uses Listen and Repeat and Take an Interview — focus on natural fluency and clear pronunciation rather than memorised templates.
For Writing, the Academic Discussion task requires you to contribute meaningfully to a class discussion — not just summarise.
Bring your passport. The name must match your ETS account exactly.
You may take notes throughout the test. Use them during Listening and Speaking preparation.
Frequently Asked Questions
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