Summary
- The TOEFL exam, or Test of English as a Foreign Language, is a standardized test designed to measure the English language proficiency of non-native speakers.
- Although the traditional TOEFL Paper-Based Test (PBT) was discontinued in 2021, ETS introduced the TOEFL iBT test on paper edition as an alternative in countries like Russia.
- Students attempted the reading, listening, and writing sections at a designated test center, and the speaking section was conducted online from home, monitored by a human proctor.
The TOEFL exam is a key requirement for students planning to study abroad. Several universities in English-speaking nations accept TOEFL exam scores to evaluate candidates on language proficiency, which is a key admission criteria.
What is the TOEFL exam?
The TOEFL exam, or Test of English as a Foreign Language, is a standardized test designed to measure the English language proficiency of non-native speakers. The test is conducted by Educational Testing Service (ETS), a private non-profit organization.
The comprehensive nature of the TOEFL ensures that you are ready to face the academic challenges of studying abroad. It evaluates your speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills in English.
Many scholarship programs, certification licensors, and government agencies use TOEFL scores to evaluate English proficiency.
Also Read: Top Exams For Studying Abroad [Comprehensive Guide]
Types of TOEFL exams
TOEFL iBT (Internet-based Test)
This is the most common format, designed to assess your ability to integrate your listening, reading, speaking, and writing skills for academic purposes.
TOEFL Essentials
This version is a shorter and more flexible alternative. It focuses less on academic skills and more on general English proficiency for immigration and family visas in the UK and New Zealand.
TOEFL ITP (Institutional Testing Program)
This version is used within institutions to calculate progress but is not valid for university admission.
TOEFL Junior and TOEFL Primary
These tests are tailored for younger students (below 13) to help children develop skills and the ability to speak, write, read, and listen in core English.
The TOEFL offers three formats:
- Paper-based test (PBT)
- Phased-out computer-based test (CBT)
- Internet-based test (iBT)
While most students now take the iBT, which includes reading, listening, speaking, and writing sections, some universities still use the PBT.
The iBT exam lasts about 3 hours, with 30 minutes dedicated to check-in formalities and 2.5 hours for the exam.
Also Read: IELTS vs TOEFL: Understanding the Difference Between TOEFL and IELTS
TOEFL full form
The full form of the TOEFL is “Test of English as a Foreign Language.”
What is TOEFL iBT?
The TOEFL Internet-Based Test (TOEFL iBT) is the most popular TOEFL test format.
Around 98% of test takers prefer the TOEFL internet-based test, which is conducted online, due to its increased convenience and flexibility.
TOEFL iBT has two versions: TOEFL iBT and TOEFL iBT home edition. Both tests assess your reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. However, there are slight differences.
Test at a Test Center
For those who prefer a traditional testing environment, the TOEFL iBT is available at thousands of authorized test centers around the world.
Test at Home
The TOEFL iBT Home Edition allows you to take the same test from home, monitored online by a human proctor. This option is available 24 hours a day, four days a week, with scheduling possible 24 hours after registration.
Also Read: TOEFL Exam Syllabus (Section-wise) in 2024: Latest & Updated
What is the TOEFL test on paper?
Although the traditional TOEFL Paper-Based Test (PBT) was discontinued in 2021, ETS introduced the TOEFL iBT test on paper edition as an alternative in countries like Russia.
The TOEFL iBT test on paper edition was conducted in a hybrid model. Students attempted the reading, listening, and writing sections at a designated test center, and the speaking section was conducted online from home, monitored by a human proctor. Test takers required the necessary technical setup at home to complete the speaking section.
Later, on January 20, 2024, due to the growing preference for online tests and advancements in digital testing platforms, the TOEFL iBT Paper Edition was phased out. However, those who took this test on or before January 20, 2024, will have their scores valid for two years.
TOEFL exam eligibility 2025
ETS has no strict criteria for students to write TOEFL exams. However, students willing to study in universities may have certain eligibility guidelines to follow. These eligibility guidelines are:
- You must have secondary education (10+2) degrees from an accredited institution.
- You must be older than 18 years. If you are less than 18, then your parents must accompany you during the exam registration.
- You must have documentation like a printout of the TOEFL iBT test confirmation form and the registration number.
- You should have government issued identification proof (like a passport), and a passport-sized photo.
- If you take the TOEFL exam at home, you must have appropriate equipment, such as a reliable computer, speaker, camera, and a quiet environment, to qualify.
Also Read: How To Prepare For TOEFL in 2025 (Complete Strategy)
TOEFL exam fee 2025
The TOEFL exam fee in India is ₹16,900 (US$205). You can pay the exam fee using a credit/debit card, or through PayPal. Other modes of payment, such as money orders, paper checks, or cash, are not accepted.
Apart from the initial registration fee, there may be additional fees that apply for various reasons:
- Late registration: ₹3,300 (US$40) if you miss the initial registration deadline.
- Rescheduling: ₹4,900 (US$60) if you need to change your exam date.
- Reinstatement of canceled scores: ₹1,600 (US$20) if your scores are canceled and need to be reinstated.
- Additional score reports: ₹2,000 (US$25) per institution or agency if you need to send your scores to recipients.
- Speaking or writing section score review: ₹6,600 (US$80) for one section or ₹13,200 (US$160) for a review of both sections.
- Returned payment: ₹2,480 (US$30) if your payment is refunded for any reason
TOEFL exam dates in 2025
To find the TOEFL exam dates for 2024, follow these straightforward steps:
Step 1: Go to the ETS TOEFL official site
First, go to the official ETS TOEFL site and get directed to the main homepage. You’ll find two options: “Register for TOEFL IBT” and “Guide me on TOEFL iBT.” Click on the first option since you want to find suitable dates and register for the TOEFL exam.
Next, you’ll have to sign up and log in. You can create a new ETS account by filling out details like your name, date of birth, desired place of study, field, and reason for taking the TOEFL test.
Once you log in, you’ll be assigned an ETS ID; keep it handy for future reference.
Step 2: Select the test you want to take
Once you log in, select the type of test for which you’d like to search the exam dates, whether it is TOEFL iBT, TOEFL iBT Home Edition, or TOEFL Essentials.
TOEFL Home Edition and TOEFL Essential tests are conducted online. Hence, they offer online slot booking.
Image: TOEFL-home-edition
Image: TOEFL- essentials
Step 3: Find a test location and date
After selecting the version of the TOEFL IBT test, you can fill in the name of the location where you are willing to write the TOEFL exam.
Select the month range when you want to attempt the TOEFL exam, and if you have any restricted reservation code, fill it out.
A restricted reservation code for the TOEFL exam is given to test-takers with disabilities or health-related needs. This code ensures that the accommodations, surrounding conditions, and test setup meet the test-taker’s precise requirements.
Once you fill in all the details, click “search” for an appropriate test date and center.
Step 4: Select the test centre, date, and time
Here, you can view the TOEFL exam availability based on date and distance.
Under “View By Date,” you can view TOEFL exam test dates and click on the date to view the centers available, along with the exam fee and late registration fee.
Under “View By Distance,” you can access test centers along with their distances in meters and kilometers, which gives you exact information to plan. You can also select “Show test center map” to locate the TOEFL test center more precisely.
Scoring method and validity
The TOEFL test is scored for its four sections—reading, listening, speaking, and writing—with each section receiving a scaled score from 0 to 30. Score calculation is done by both human raters from a centralized scoring network and automated methods.
Automated scoring ensures objectivity for reading and listening, while human raters evaluate nuances like content quality and language effectiveness in speaking and writing sections. These section scores are then added to create a total score that ranges from 0 to 120.
Here are the details and methods used to generate the scores.
| Section | Scoring Range | Method of Scoring |
| Reading | 0 to 30 | Automated scoring of multiple-choice questions |
| Listening | 0 to 30 | Automated scoring of multiple-choice questions |
| Speaking | 0 to 30 | Rated by human raters and possibly automated systems |
| Writing | 0 to 30 | Assessed by human raters and possibly automated systems |
Another way to determine your TOEFL results is through categorized proficiency levels for each skill set by the ETS.
Here’s a breakdown of each section’s proficiency levels, along with score ranges:
| Skill | Level |
| Reading | Advanced (24-30)
High-Intermediate (18-23) Low-Intermediate (4-17) Below Low-Intermediate (0-3) |
| Listening | Advanced (22-30)
High-Intermediate (17-21) Low-Intermediate (9-16) Below Low-Intermediate (0-8) |
| Speaking | Advanced (25-30)
High-Intermediate (20-24) Low-Intermediate (16-19) Basic (10-15) Below Basic (0-9) |
| Writing | Advanced (24-30)
High-Intermediate (17-23) Low-Intermediate (13-16) Basic (7-12) Below Basic (0-6) |
The official TOEFL scores are typically accessible six days after the exam.
Score Reporting Methods:
- ETS Data Manager: 6–8 days
- Scorelink Service: 8–10 days
- Postal Mail: 9–11 days plus mailing time
Scores are valid for two years from the date TOEFL results are declared. The validity period begins 5-7 days after the results are announced, and it’s essential to be mindful of this timeframe when planning your next steps.
Syllabus and exam pattern
A crucial aspect of TOEFL preparation includes thoroughly understanding its exam pattern and syllabus.
The TOEFL exam pattern includes 4 sections.
| Section | Duration | Number of Questions/Tasks |
| Reading | 35 minutes | 2 passages with 10 questions each |
| Listening | 36 minutes | 3 lectures, 2 conversations (6 questions per Lecture, 5 questions per Conversation) |
| Speaking | 16 minutes | 4 tasks |
| Writing | 29 minutes | 2 tasks ( 1 integrated, 1 academic discussion task) |
| Total Duration | 116 minutes |
TOEFL 2025 exam preparation tips
Scoring well in TOEFL requires a strategic and systematic approach in TOEFL preparation. Here’s a list of tips to help you effectively prepare for the TOEFL exam:
Start your TOEFL preparation early
Start your TOEFL prep by mapping out a detailed study schedule 3-4 months in advance. Break down the syllabus into manageable sections and set weekly goals. Understand concepts and take ample practice time rather than cramming at the last minute.
Understand the exam pattern and make a study plan
Secondly, understand the specifics of each TOEFL section. For example, the Reading section might include academic passages that require you to answer conceptually detailed questions.
You can find and download TOEFL iBT test prep planner from the official ETS site for further details about each section. This planner helps you understand the question formats and plan how to learn these sections accordingly.
Use personalized preparation portals like the TOEFL Test Ready
TOEFL Test Ready by ETS is a personalized preparation tool offering tips, practice tests, and feedback aligned with the exam’s core objectives. It helps you study through a preparation process made by experts who curate the TOEFL question papers.
It includes free practice tests, activities, a tailored study plan, mock and section tests, courses, and multiple guides and books. You can also track your progress through this personalized test preparation portal to stay up-to-date.
Use practice tests
Practice sample TOEFL iBT papers to familiarize yourself with the content and structure of the TOEFL questions. You can also opt for multiple free mock and sample tests from the ETS website.
Few official practice tests from ETS, like the ETS’s Official TOEFL Practice Online (TPO) and Kaplan’s TOEFL iBT online, are test stimulators that offer a realistic simulation of the test environment, including the same interface and types of questions you’ll encounter on test day.
Follow a targeted improvement strategy
Always review your incorrect answers after taking practice tests. This helps you correct your mistakes and refine your strategies for acing the specific sections. For example, if you frequently miss questions about identifying the main idea, focus your next reading practice on summarization and main idea identification. This helps you build confidence for the main exam.
Actively immerse in English
Beyond textbooks, practice tests, and mock exams, immerse yourself in the English language through movies, podcasts, and books to improve pronunciation and fluency.
You can even choose books related to your academic interests to make learning vocabulary and grammar more doable, enjoyable and relevant.
A word of advice
Also Read: TOEFL Exam Pattern in 2025: Latest & Updated
As we close our guide on the TOEFL exam for 2024, remember this is a stepping stone to your future.
By getting a handle on the dates, registration, fees, and eligibility—and by really engaging with the syllabus and exam pattern—you’re preparing not just for a test, but for a world of opportunities in higher education.
Keep your eyes on the prize, and let every step of your preparation bring you closer to acing your TOEFL exam.
FAQs
1. What is the registration cost for the TOEFL exam in India?
The TOEFL exam fee in India is ₹17,000. Registering late might incur additional costs, so it’s wise to sign up early.
2. Can I take the TOEFL test from home?
Yes, you can take the TOEFL test from home by selecting the TOEFL iBT Home Edition. It is available for those who prefer or need to take the test from home.
3. What constitutes a good TOEFL score?
While a “good” TOEFL score depends on the requirements of your target universities; generally, a higher score not only boosts your admission prospects but may also position you favorably for scholarships.
4. How long are TOEFL results valid?
TOEFL scores remain valid for two years. This period allows you flexibility in application timelines for different academic or professional opportunities.
5. How do I register for the TOEFL exam?
You can register for the TOEFL via the ETS website, which is straightforward and user-friendly. Alternatively, registrations are accepted over the phone, by mail, or in person at authorized centers.
6. What does the TOEFL exam test?
The TOEFL exam evaluates your ability to use and understand English at the university level. It tests reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills, focusing on your ability to communicate ideas effectively.
7. Where can I find TOEFL preparation materials?
The official ETS website offers comprehensive TOEFL preparation materials, including books, interactive tools, and practice tests.
8. Are there any TOEFL exam simulators available?
Yes, several educational platforms offer TOEFL simulators. These simulators provide a realistic test-taking experience, crucial for familiarizing yourself with the exam format and timing.
9. Can TOEFL speaking questions be practiced online?
Absolutely. Online platforms offer extensive practice for TOEFL speaking questions, which can help you hone your responses and improve your fluency and confidence before the actual test.
