TOEFL Exam: Your Complete Guide to Dates, Registration, Fees, and Tips!

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Rahul Singha

MOEC

Updated on Nov 24, 2020 18:12

 TOEFL iBT, a highly recognised exam for English proficiency, is widely accepted by universities and colleges in the USA, UK, Canada, and other countries.

 

The TOEFL exam is mainly administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS), assessing your English skills, from reading to listening to writing to speaking. They evaluate your ability to communicate and comprehend English in an academic environment.

 

For those aspiring to pursue higher education abroad, the TOEFL test serves as a benchmark, ensuring they possess the language proficiency required for academic success. So, read the blog ahead to learn more about the TOEFL exam, eligibility, registration, and more details.

 

TOEFL-EXAM

 

Table Of Content
  1. TOEFL 2023: Key Highlights

  2. What is the TOEFL Exam?

  3. What is TOEFL iBT?

  4. What is the TOEFL Test on Paper?

  5. TOEFL Exam Eligibility

  6. TOEFL Exam Fee

  7. Country Wise TOEFL Fees

  8. TOEFL Test Registration

  9. TOEFL Exam Slot Booking

  10. TOEFL Exam Dates

  11. TOEFL Test Centres

  12. TOEFL iBT Home Edition

  13. TOEFL iBT Test Pattern

  14. TOEFL Exam Syllabus

  15. TOEFL Exam Preparation

  16. Best TOEFL Books

  17. TOEFL Practice Test

  18. TOEFL Scholarships

  19. TOEFL Scores

  20. TOEFL Cut-Off

  21. FAQs

 

TOEFL 2023: Key Highlights

Exam Name

TOEFL

TOEFL full form

Test of English as a Foreign Language

Official Website

https://www.ets.org/toefl

Conducting Body

ETS (Educational Testing Service)

Widely popular as

English language proficiency test

Generally accepted by

Universities in the USA and Canada

Mode of exam

TOEFL iBT: Internet-based test,  TOEFL Test on Paper and TOEFL at Home test

TOEFL Exam Fees

₹16,900 INR

Score Range

Reading: 0–30

Listening: 0–30

Speaking: 0–30

Writing: 0–30

TOEFL Helpline

1-609-771-7100, 1-877-863-3546

Fax

1-610-290-8972

What is the TOEFL Exam?

The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) assesses your English proficiency when preparing to study abroad. Besides being a requirement for entry into top-notch universities, the TOEFL exam increases scholarship eligibility and streamlines visa applications for educational and work purposes.

 

For those considering registration, the cost of the TOEFL exam is INR 17,092, enclosing all three test formats: TOEFL iBT, TOEFL iBT Home edition, and TOEFL Test on Paper. However, opting for the TOEFL exam not only confirms your language proficiency but also serves as a strategic step for your academic and professional pursuits on a global scale.

 

Picking the TOEFL test opens doors to educational opportunities abroad, and a successful performance not only meets admission requirements but also places you for potential scholarships.

 

Moreover, the certification achieved through the TOEFL exam adds value to your qualifications, enhancing your prospects. Hence, investing in the TOEFL is not merely an evaluation of language skills but a forward-thinking decision that can significantly impact your future endeavours.

 

What is TOEFL iBT?

The TOEFL iBT, or TOEFL Internet-Based Test, is a conveniently conducted online exam version. This mode of the TOEFL test is widely preferred due to its user-friendly interface and minimal resource requirements.

 

The strategically located test centres across the country make it easy for many students to choose this mode of examination. TOEFL iBT is extremely popular, being the preferred format for over 98% of TOEFL tests worldwide.

 

Opting for the TOEFL iBT provides a flexible and highly effective way to verify your English proficiency when attempting the exam. It serves as a reliable indicator of your language skills in an academic setting. This mode offers convenience, accessibility, and a widely recognised assessment of your English language capabilities.

 

So, when aiming to showcase your proficiency in English, the TOEFL iBT stands out as a practical and efficient choice for students preparing to navigate the academic environment confidently.

 

What is the TOEFL Test on Paper?

ETS TOEFL brought back a paper-based version that covers all four test sections, where the Reading, Listening, and Writing sections are conducted on paper, and the Speaking section is taken at home on a computer.

 

If you're thinking about giving this a go, make sure you have the proper setup at home before signing up for the ETS TOEFL test. This option gives you flexibility in testing, letting you showcase your English skills in a way that works best for you.

 

Just remember to check out the tech and space requirements for the Speaking section to make sure everything goes smoothly on test day!

 

TOEFL Exam Eligibility

If you are really wondering about education abroad and thinking about the TOEFL exam, you might be curious about whether you can take it or not. Well, the good news is that ETS does not set any strict rules and regulations for TOEFL iBT.

 

There’s no specific limit for age, so anyone can give it a shot without worrying about age restrictions. Moreover, regarding education qualifications, ETS doesn’t have a list of regulations.

 

But if you have completed your higher secondary education from a recognised board, you're likely good to go. This not only sets you up for university admission abroad but also fits well as a TOEFL eligibility, making you eligible to tackle the TOEFL exam. So, if you're thinking about taking the TOEFL, age and specific academic qualifications shouldn't be a concern.

 

TOEFL Exam Fee

The TOEFL exam registration fee differs based on the location. Have a look at the breakdown of the fees below.

Item

Fees

Test Fee

INR 17,092

Late registration

INR 3,335

Rescheduling

INR 5,002

Reinstatement of cancelled scores

INR 1,667

Additional score reports (per institution or agency)

INR 2,084 each

Speaking or Writing Section score review

INR 6,670

Speaking and Writing Section score review

INR 13,340

Returned payment

INR 2,501

When registering for the TOEFL exam, it’s essential to consider these fees. The TOEFL test fee is INR 17,092, but there’s an additional INR 3,335 charge for late registration. If you need to reschedule, the fee is INR 5,002.

 

Apart from this, reinstatement fees are INR 1,667 and providing additional score reports to institutions or agencies costs INR 2,084 each. If you want to get a report of either a Speaking score review or a Writing score review, the single report fee is INR 6,670, and for both, the total fee is INR 13,340.

 

In any case, if you cancel the TOEFL exam, the cancellation fee deducted will be INR 2,501. However, the returned payment can vary according to the date you apply. So, understanding fees is crucial when preparing for the TOEFL exam to ensure a smooth registration process.

 

Country Wise TOEFL Fees

If you're not in India, no need to worry! The TOEFL exam is conducted in all major countries worldwide. Explore the TOEFL Exam Fee specific to your country below:

Country

TOEFL Fees

USA

$255

Australia

$273

India

$205

Germany

$265

Korea, Republic of

$220

TOEFL Test Registration

Registering for the TOEFL exam is a flexible process available throughout the year, thanks to ETS's 24/7 online registration system. You have multiple options for registration, including online, by phone, through mail, or in person via an authorised agent.

 

It's crucial to note that online registrations for the TOEFL close seven days before the exam date. For those who miss the initial deadline, there's a late registration option available until four days before the test. However, a late fee of US$40 is applicable.

 

If you're in India and planning to take the TOEFL, the exam fee is 205 USD. This fee covers the cost of the test and the services associated with it.

 

Whether you choose the convenience of online registration or prefer other methods, make sure to plan ahead to meet the deadlines and avoid any additional fees. The TOEFL exam is a significant step towards your academic and professional goals, and a smooth registration process sets the stage for a successful testing experience.

 

TOEFL Exam Slot Booking

When gearing up for the TOEFL exam, ensure a smooth process by carefully selecting a suitable test date and a convenient test centre for your TOEFL slot booking. This step is crucial in your TOEFL journey. Planning and choosing a date that aligns with your preparation timeline and personal schedule is essential.

 

To initiate the TOEFL slot booking, consider the availability of test dates in your region and opt for a test centre that is easy for you to reach. This thoughtful selection contributes to a stress-free testing experience. Keep in mind that the TOEFL exam date and test centre play a significant role in determining your overall performance.

 

Additionally, remember to have a valid passport, as it serves as the required identity proof when you arrive at the test centre. All these elements in place enhance the efficiency of the registration process and set the stage for a confident and focused TOEFL examination experience. So, plan ahead, select wisely, and embark on your TOEFL journey with confidence.

 

TOEFL Exam Dates

Let's delve into the essential details about TOEFL exam dates. The TOEFL examination is conducted multiple times throughout the year at various ETS TOEFL test centres globally.

 

When planning your TOEFL iBT exam, set a target date at least a month before your initial application deadline. This strategic timing allows ample room for working on your applications and provides flexibility in case a retake is necessary. Speaking of retakes, you can opt for a second attempt just three days after the first.

 

By selecting a TOEFL exam date well in advance, you ensure a comfortable timeframe for preparation and potential reevaluation. This proactive approach is particularly beneficial, allowing you to enhance your performance if needed.

 

Keep in mind that TOEFL test dates are easily accessible on our website, allowing you to plan your exam schedule with ease. So, mark your calendar wisely, allowing ample preparation and flexibility in your TOEFL journey.

 

TOEFL Test Centres

In India, the TOEFL iBT is conducted across 39 cities, providing widespread accessibility for test-takers. These cities include Ahmedabad, Allahabad, Amritsar, Bengaluru, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, Chandigarh, Chennai, Coimbatore, Dehradun, Delhi, East Godavari District, Gurgaon, Gwalior, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Kochi, Kolkata, Ludhiana, Madurai, Mumbai, Mussoorie, Nagpur, Nashik, Nizamabad, Patna, Pondicherry, Pune, Raipur, Surat, Thiruvananthapuram, Thrissur, Tirupati, Trichy, Vadodara, Vijayawada, Visakhapatnam, and Warangal.

 

For candidates planning to take the TOEFL iBT in India, it's crucial to verify the availability of the preferred exam date and time at the nearest centre before making a booking. This ensures a seamless and convenient testing experience.

 

You can visit the official website for comprehensive information on TOEFL test centres in your vicinity. Alternatively, if you prefer the convenience of testing from home, you can explore the TOEFL Home Edition of the test. This way, you can choose the option that best suits your preferences and testing needs.

 

TOEFL iBT Home Edition

Now that you have complete knowledge of the TOEFL exam, here’s what you need to learn about its home edition. For the TOEFL test at home, you must ensure you have a desktop or a laptop computer, and you will be monitored online by a human proctor.

 

For the at-home test, make sure your webcam can show your entire room and have a microphone and speaker (no headsets allowed). Download and install the ETS secure browser, run the file, and check that your computer setup meets the requirements.

 

Ensure your testing room is suitable—be alone, preferably at home, on a desk or table with a standard chair, and no outdoor or public spaces. Clear the area of unapproved items. Once confirmed, you're ready to register.

 

TOEFL iBT Test Pattern

The TOEFL exam comprises four sections: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing, contributing to a total score range of 0-120. Each section is scored from 0-30.

 

Adequate preparation through TOEFL sample papers enhances performance. The test duration is just under 2 hours but allocates 2.5 hours, including a 30-minute check-in. Refer to the table below for the breakdown of each TOEFL iBT test section.

Section

Estimated Timing

Questions/Tasks

Description

Reading

35 minutes

20 questions

Read passages and respond to questions.

Listening

36 minutes

28 questions

Answer questions about brief lectures or classroom discussions.

Speaking

16 minutes

4 tasks

Talk about a familiar topic and discuss material you read and heard.

Writing

29 minutes

2 tasks

Read a passage, listen to a recording, and type your response.

State and support an opinion in an online classroom discussion.

TOEFL Exam Syllabus

The TOEFL exam syllabus is tailored to evaluate your reading, listening, writing, and speaking skills in an academic setting. The TOEFL exam format includes sections on TOEFL writing, TOEFL reading, TOEFL listening, and TOEFL speaking.

TOEFL Sections

TOEFL Exam Syllabus Description

Total Questions/ Duration

TOEFL Exam Syllabus: Reading Section

The TOEFL Reading Section has two 700-word passages, each with 10 questions. It takes about 35 minutes to complete, and scoring is based on correct comprehension responses.

There are 2 passages, 10 questions each, totalling 20. 

Time allocated: 35 minutes.

TOEFL Exam Syllabus: Listening Section

The TOEFL Listening Section has 3 lectures (3–5 minutes each, 6 questions each) and 2 conversations (3 minutes each, 5 questions each). You can take notes. Time allocated: 36 minutes.

a) 3 Lectures (3-5 minutes, 500-800 words), 6 questions each, Total 18

b) 2 Conversations (about 3 minutes, 12-25 exchanges), 5 questions each, Total 10

Total questions: 28

Total time: 36 minutes

TOEFL Exam Syllabus: Speaking Section

In TOEFL Speaking, aim for top scores by meeting task requirements with minimal errors. Graders seek clear, sustained conversations, evaluating delivery, language use, and topic development.

a) 1 independent task (prep: 15-30 sec; response: 45 or 60 sec)

b) 3 integrated tasks – Read/Listen/Speak (prep: 15-30 sec; response: 45 or 60 sec)

Total questions: 4

Total time: 16 minutes

TOEFL Exam Syllabus: Writing Section

In TOEFL Writing, craft two essays, each addressing a topic with organisation, development, and clarity. Ensure unity, progression, and coherence, and showcase the syntactic variety and precise word choice to attain a high score. Minimise grammatical errors for better results.

a) 1 Integrated task – Read/Listen/Write (20 minutes) (reading: 3 min; listening: 2 min; writing: 15 min)

b) 1 Writing for an Academic Discussion task (10 minutes)

Total questions: 2

Total time: 30 minutes

TOEFL Exam Preparation

Preparing for the TOEFL exam can be done through two approaches: self-study or attending coaching classes. Each method has its perks, and neither is inherently better than the other.

 

If money is your primary concern, self-study using TOEFL books and resources might be the more economical choice. On the other hand, if you prefer professional guidance for an edge in TOEFL exam preparation, enrolling in a TOEFL coaching centre is a viable option.

 

The TOEFL test assesses your English comprehension at the university level, focusing on reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. To prepare effectively, you should grasp the TOEFL test format and understand the scoring system.

 

ETS, the conducting body of the TOEFL exam, offers both free and paid study materials, easily accessible on their official website. Whether choosing independent study or coaching classes, thorough familiarity with the test structure and available resources is essential for success in the TOEFL exam.

 

Best TOEFL Books

Now, to understand the books and guides for TOEFL exam preparation, check out the level you are at. Suppose you are at a beginner, intermediate, or expert level; focus on the grammar and vocabulary according to your level.

 

You must pick your books that align with your specific needs and goals. Hence, explore the most popular books and guides of your choice in order to assist you in TOEFL preparation.

 

TOEFL Practice Test

TOEFL requires you to have a good command of the English language, focusing on all the sections - reading, listening, writing and speaking. The preparation of each section is of high importance.  Along with the four divided sections in total, the TOEFL exam requires you to put in extra dedicated time to cover every topic and also excel in each of its parts.

 

After you complete your TOEFL exam preparation, you can check your ability through practice tests and see how far you have reached in your preparation. However, make sure to practice for the TOEFL exam through sample papers and practice tests.

 

TOEFL Scholarships

Studying abroad can be challenging due to the need to pay tuition fees in foreign currency, coupled with high living expenses. These factors often make it difficult for many students to pursue their dreams of studying abroad, leading them to think of alternative options.

 

Fortunately, the availability of various study abroad scholarships and education loans presents you with an opportunity to turn your aspirations into reality.

 

To find support, you can explore scholarships listed on each college's official website, as well as fellowships and grants regularly awarded to deserving students. Moreover, financial institutions offer education loans designed specifically for studying abroad. It's important to note that ETS and the TOEFL program currently do not provide scholarships.

 

By tapping into these resources, you can alleviate the financial burden associated with international education, making your study abroad dreams more achievable. Therefore, seeking out these opportunities and being aware of available financial aid options can significantly contribute to making overseas education a reality for students.

 

TOEFL Scores

Once you complete your TOEFL exam, you will not have to wait long to receive your scores. At the end of the TOEFL test, you can see your unofficial Reading and Listening scores.

 

You'll get an email notification when your official TOEFL scores are released online. Log in to your TOEFL iBT account and select the scores option. Your TOEFL total score will be available approximately six days from the test date. For those who choose the TOEFL Home Edition, results will be delivered 6-10 days after the test.

 

If you requested a paper copy of your score report before taking the test, it will be mailed within 11 days after the test date. Keep in mind that delivery time depends on local postal services. Knowing these timelines will help you stay informed about when to expect your TOEFL scores, ensuring a smooth and timely process.

 

TOEFL Cut-Off

There are no specific passing marks set for the TOEFL exam, as each university or educational institution determines its own score range or minimum required score. Unlike a fixed TOEFL cut-off, universities establish their score criteria based on their unique requirements. These requirements are relatively stable, with infrequent changes, and can differ significantly between universities and specific study programs.

 

It's important to note that there is no universal standard for TOEFL scores, and they are not consistent across all institutions. Universities independently set their preferred scores, considering the linguistic demands of their courses. To stay informed about any changes in score requirements, it's advisable to check the respective university's website for updates regularly.

 

By monitoring the university's website, prospective students can ensure they are aware of the latest score requirements, enabling them to prepare accordingly and meet the criteria for the programs they wish to pursue.

 

Understanding these individual university variations is crucial for applicants aiming to secure admission based on their TOEFL performance.

 

However, the TOEFL exam serves as a crucial gateway for international students, assessing their English proficiency for academic pursuits abroad, and this comprehensive guide provides valuable insights into its various facets, from registration and fees to preparation tips and score considerations.

 

FAQs

1. How are TOEFL Scores calculated?

TOEFL scores are meticulously calculated, taking into account the number of correct answers in each section. The scoring system is comprehensive, resulting in a total score range spanning from 0 to 120, reflecting the candidate's proficiency across the various sections of the test.

 

2. What is a Good TOEFL Score?

A good TOEFL score varies based on university or program requirements. However, in general, scores above 100 are often considered strong indicators of English language proficiency and may enhance your eligibility for admission to various academic programs.

 

3. How to access TOEFL Scores?

You'll receive an email around six days after your test, prompting you to log in to your TOEFL account and view your scores. The official TOEFL iBT scores are available approximately six days after the test, and for the Home Edition, it takes 6-10 days.

 

4. When will TOEFL Official Score Reports be available?

Official TOEFL score reports, providing comprehensive details of your performance, are usually accessible online approximately ten days after the date of your test. Accessing these detailed reports offers valuable insights into your strengths and areas for improvement across the various sections of the TOEFL examination.

 

5. What is the validity period of the TOEFL score?

If you requested a paper score report, it will be mailed within 11 days. TOEFL scores are valid for two years, and you can download a PDF copy from your ETS account after eight days.

 

6. What are TOEFL MyBest scores?

TOEFL MyBest scores merge your highest section scores from multiple test dates within two years, providing a holistic view. They streamline meeting institution score requirements, and both traditional and MyBest scores appear in your TOEFL iBT report.

 

7. What are the universities accepting TOEFL scores?

TOEFL scores are accepted by 11,000+ institutions in 150 countries, including the US, UK, Australia, New Zealand, France, Germany, and Canada. Used for both academic admissions and immigration, there's no universal cut-off. Admission requirements vary, so check specific program criteria.

 

8. What are the countries accepting TOEFL Score 2024?

TOEFL scores find acceptance in over 150 countries, including the US, the UK, Australia, New Zealand, France, and Germany. While widely recognised in Canada, it's crucial to understand that TOEFL isn't mandatory for securing a student visa in your country but plays a vital role in the university admission process. 

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