The TOEFL iBT test evaluates your English ability in terms of reading, speaking, listening and writing.
In 2024, the TOEFL iBT Test remains one of the most recognized and widely accepted English proficiency exams for students and professionals looking to study or work in English-speaking environments. The TOEFL iBT (Internet-based Test) assesses your reading, listening, speaking, and writing skills, providing a comprehensive evaluation of your ability to use and understand English at the university level. This guide covers everything you need to know about the TOEFL iBT, from registration and test format to preparation strategies and tips for achieving a high score. Whether you’re applying to universities, seeking scholarships, or advancing your career, excelling in the TOEFL iBT can open doors to global opportunities in 2024 and beyond.
1. What is the TOEFL iBT test?
An globally accepted assessment of non-native English speakers’ capacity to use and comprehend English at the university level is the TOEFL iBT test.
Most universities and schools require non-native English speakers to present proof as part of their application that their English-language skills will be sufficient to successfully participate in the coursework if you want to study at an English-speaking university or enroll in a program taught in English.
2. Why should I take the TOEFL iBT test?
The TOEFL iBT test has a number of benefits for you. The test tests academic English skills in the way they are really utilized in the classroom, which makes you stand out to admissions officers. Also, you will arrive on campus more prepared than other students because you will be confident that the honest and objective TOEFL iBT scoring will accurately reflect your skills.
3. Where are TOEFL iBT scores accepted?
More than 11,500 colleges and institutions worldwide, including those in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United States, the United Kingdom, Ireland, and all of Europe and Asia, recognize TOEFL iBT® scores. The TOEFL iBT Destination Search can be used to check whether the universities you’re considering accept TOEFL iBT scores and to find out their minimum score criteria.
4. How is the TOEFL iBT test structured?
A safe, accredited TOEFL iBT test center or at home with online human proctors are both acceptable places to take the TOEFL iBT test on a computer. The test lasts about three hours and evaluates all four English language abilities. These are the four divisions:
Reading (54 – 72 minutes)
Read passages, then respond to questions
Listening (41 – 57 minutes)
Listen to lectures and conversations, and respond to questions
~ 10-minute break ~
Speaking (17 minutes)
Speak into a microphone about familiar topics and discuss material you read about and listened to
Writing (50 minutes)
Read a passage, listen to a recording, and then type your written response
5. Where can I take the TOEFL iBT test?
There are three convenient versions for the TOEFL iBT test, all of which have the same material and scoring.
An ETS-approved test center is where you take the standard TOEFL iBT exam on a computer. You can use the official TOEFL iBT website to locate one close to you. There are more than 3,000 test centers for the TOEFL globally.
Using a computer at home, candidates take the TOEFL iBT Home Edition exam. Four days a week, there are 24/7 test appointment slots available.
There are some nations where you can take the TOEFL iBT Paper Version. The Speaking section must be completed on a computer at home within three days of the test center session, while the Reading, Listening, and Writing sections must be completed on paper at a test center.
When you sign up for a test, you can select the option that best suits your needs.
Five to six months prior to each exam date, registration opens. To guarantee that you acquire a space for your preferred date and location, it is strongly advised that you register early.
6. How much does the TOEFL iBT test cost?
Wherever you take the test will determine the test fee, which normally ranges from USD $180 to $325. The registration cost, your score report, and the four score reports submitted to the universities you choose are all covered by this. Late registration, test rescheduling, and cancellation come with extra costs.
7. How is the TOEFL iBT test scored?
The test is divided into four sections: reading, listening, speaking, and writing. Each segment is given a score between 0 and 30, and the overall test score ranges from 0 to 120. At the conclusion of the exam, you can see your unofficial Reading and Listening scores.
Your official test results, which are valid for two years, will be made accessible to you about six days after the test.
The MyBest scores, which are the average of your highest results across all of your recent legitimate tests, are also automatically included in your score report.
There are unlimited retakes, so you can retake the test as often as necessary if your score falls short of what your desired institution requires or if you simply want to improve. Three days must pass between exams as a requirement.
Also, you can choose up to 4 institutions who would immediately receive your TOEFL iBT test results when you register for the exam. This can expedite the procedure and is especially helpful when the test was taken just before the deadline for university applications.
8. How can I prepare?
Prep for success with these official resources:
- The Official Guide to the TOEFL iBT Test: The best-selling, comprehensive all-in-one reference, with 4 complete practice tests and skill-building tips
- TOEFL iBT Test Preparation: The Insider’s Guide: A free, 6-week self-paced course to build your skills, learn tips and strategies, and interact with other students
- TOEFL iBT Free Practice Test: Try out real test questions from all 4 sections
- TOEFL iBT Practice Online: Simulates the real TOEFL iBT test, and you get scores and feedback on all 4 skills within 24-hours
- Official TOEFL iBT Tests with Audio: Practice with 5 actual past tests and all audio passages
- TOEFL Go! Official App: Practice tests, official tips and more
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I am Nilay, an experienced English Language Assessment Director at the International English Test, where I have been working full-time since February 2020. I specialize in helping people worldwide validate their English proficiency through comprehensive assessments and certifications.
Before joining the International English Test, I worked as a self-employed English Language Assessment Consultant from January 2015 to December 2019. During this time, I assisted companies and individuals in improving their language skills, helping them achieve their academic and professional goals.
I hold a degree in Engineering and have also studied at Shafston International College in Australia. My educational background has equipped me with the tools to make a meaningful impact in the field of English language learning. Additionally, I enjoy sharing my expertise through articles that explore effective teaching methods and language assessment strategies, contributing to the International English Test and the broader assessment community.
