FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions about the TOEFL iBT® Test

 

About the TOEFL iBT Test

 

What is the TOEFL®

TOEFL® stands for Test of English as A Foreign Language. It measures the ability of non-native English speakers to use and understand the English language as it is heard, spoken, read and written in the university classroom. 

Who is eligible for proficiency testing?

All individuals, companies or institutions who want to prove or improve their English proficiency levels using a globally recognized standard.

Where are the TOEFL® test scores accepted?

TOEFL® scores are accepted by more than 10,000 universities and other institutions worldwide, including universities in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, the United States, and across Europe and Asia.

How do I know what an Institution’s TOEFL score requirements are?

Each institution sets its own score requirements. You can start your score requirement search with the TOEFL Destination Search and then contact the institution for more specific requirements. If you’re applying for postgraduate studies, find out if your institution requires other tests such as the GRE® (Graduate Record Examinations®) test.

How often is the TOEFL iBT test given?

The TOEFL iBT is given on fixed dates, more than 50 times a year. Select your test date and location.

How do I find TOEFL testing locations and dates?

Choose an available test date from among testing locations around the world.

Can I take the entire TOEFL test in one day?

Yes, the test is given in 1 day. The test takes about 3 hours, but with check-in you should plan to be at the center for at least 31/2 hours.

Can I retake the TOEFL test?

Yes, you can. There’s no limit to the number of times you can take the test but you cannot take it more than once in a 3-day period. If you already have a test appointment, you cannot register for another test date that is within 3 days of your existing appointment.

 

TOEFL iBT Test Fees

 

How much does the TOEFL iBT test cost?

The fee depends on where you plan to take the test. For more information on registration, fees, locations and test dates, see How to Register.

How many TOEFL score reports are included in my test fee?

Your test fee includes:

  • 1 online score report for you and 1 paper copy if you requested it before you took the test. Your scores will be posted electronically only, unless you request a paper copy by selecting that option when you register. You can change this option using your ETS account (online or via the TOEFL official app) at any time up to 10 p.m (local test center time) on the day before your test. From your home page, Under “Upcoming Tests”, click “View/Modify.”
  • You can also download and print a PDF test taker score report for your records.
  • Up to 4 official score reports sent to the agencies or institutions you select before you take the test; ETS will send the official score reports directly to the score recipients. Keep in mind that if you designate any institution or agency to receive your scores, you will not be able to have your Writing and/or Speaking section rescored through the Score Review Service

Can I order additional TOEFL official score reports?

Yes, you can order additional score reports once your scores are available online, approximately 6 days after your test date. 

  • Reports are mailed approximately 3 to 5 days after receipt of your request and payment.
  • The fee is $20 for each report ordered.

What is the TOEFL iBT test fee refund policy?

If you cancel your TOEFL registration before the 4-day advance deadline, you will receive a refund of half the original test fee you paid.

What are the fees for other services?

See fees

 

Registration

 

What do I need to know before I register for TOEFL?

Before you register, decide where you want to take the test. See test centers, test dates and seat availability. You will be required to enter identification (ID) information before you can register for the test. Be sure to use the same form of ID that you will bring to the test center. ID requirements depend on where you plan to take the test and your citizenship. See ID Requirements for details.

When can I register for the test?

Seats can fill up quickly, so register early. We recommend that you register 3 to 4 months before your desired test date to reserve your seat. Your test date should be 2 to 3 months before your earliest admissions application or other deadline.

How do I register to reserve my seat?

You can register here or using any of the following methods — online or via the TOEFL official app using your ETS account, by phone or by mail. Choose where you want to take the test and see what dates are available.

See How to Register.

When you register, remember to:

  • Have your identification with you. Your name must be entered exactly as it appears on the identification (ID) you bring with you on test day, and you will be required to enter your ID information before you can register for the test. ID requirements depend on where you plan to take the test and your citizenship. See ID Requirements for details.
  • Have your credit/debit card, electronic check, or PayPal® account information available for payment.
  • Know where and when you want to take the test. Select from this list of the available testing locations and dates.
  • Provide the names of up to 4 institutions or agencies you want to receive your scores. You can select them from the TOEFL® Destination Search. If you register by mail, you will also need to provide the TOEFL codes for each institution. If you register online or via the TOEFL official app and are not ready to select your score recipients, you can do so up until 10 p.m., local test center time, on the day before your test. Please keep in mind that if you designate any institution or agency to receive your scores, you will not be able to have your Writing and/or Speaking section rescored through the Score Review service.

What is a TOEFL iBT Resource Center?

A TOEFL iBT Resource Center is a place where you can go to get general in-language information about the TOEFL test and test preparation. Learning and TeLTS is ETS Preferred Partner in Kenya.

How should my name appear on registration?

Your name and the spelling of your name must match the name printed on the valid ID document you will present at the test center. If this information does not match, you will not be permitted to test, and your test fee will not be refunded.

I have a multiple-part first or last name. How should I enter it?

  • Enter your name exactly as it appears on the ID document you will bring to the test center. If the names do not match, you will not be permitted to test and your test fee will not be refunded.
  • Enter your entire last name (family name/surname) and first (given) name. If you have a multiple-part first or last name, enter it as it appears on the ID document you will bring to the test center, excluding accents and apostrophes. For example, if your first/given name is “Jean Louis,” enter both names in the First/Given Name(s) box. If your last/family name is “Smith-Davis,” enter both names in the Last/Family Name(s) box. Be sure to enter all the names in the same order as they appear on your ID document.

I don’t have a first or (last name). What should I do?

If you do not have a first name, or do not have a last name, check the appropriate box next to the name fields.

Should I enter my middle name?

If your ID shows your middle name, you must enter it in the Middle Name field so the name on your registration matches exactly the name on your ID. If your ID does not show your middle name, or you don’t have a middle name, leave the Middle Name field blank.

How can I find a test center?

When you select a location and date range in the online registration system, you’ll see a list of test sites in that area. You can search by site or date to find a match to your needs.

What can I do with my ETS account?

When you register online or via the TOEFL official app, you will create an account, including a username and password, if you don’t already have one. You will be able to use your account to:

  • update your email or mailing address
  • update your ID information
  • view your registration details
  • add test prep products to your order
  • reschedule or cancel your registration
  • change your score report preference
  • view your scores
  • order a Score Review
  • request reinstatement of scores you canceled at the test center
  • download a PDF test taker score report (not currently available for tests taken in China)
  • order additional score reports
  • check the status of previous orders
  • pay an outstanding balance

What if I make a mistake entering my name or date of birth?

Once you enter your name and date of birth, you can’t change those fields. If you need to make a change to your name or date of birth, contact TOEFL Services:

Email: toefl@ets.org

Phone: +1-609-771-7100 

September–May: Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–7:45 p.m. U.S. Eastern Time, except for U.S. holidays

June–August: Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5:45 p.m. U.S. Eastern Time, except for U.S. holidays

Phones are busiest on Mondays.

Will I receive a confirmation of my registration?

Yes, you will receive a confirmation email. You can also print your confirmation from your ETS account or view it via the mobile app. Your test date, start time and test center address are in your confirmation. Return to your account the day before the test in case changes have been made to your registration details (for example, a different time or building than originally scheduled).

How can I change my email or mailing address?

You can change your email or mailing address using your ETS account, either online or via the TOEFL official app.

If you’re accessing your account online, go to the Home page. At the top right under your name, use the drop-down menu to select “Personal Information and Preferences.” The information on that screen will show you how to edit your information.

If you are using the TOEFL official app, tap the “person” icon on the top right of the Home page screen. Select “Profile,” then “Personal Information.” From there, you can view and update your address information.

Why can’t I get the test date I want?

  • You need to register at least 4 days before the test date. For example, if the test is on a Saturday, the deadline to register is Tuesday.
  • If the test date you want is not listed, the deadline for registration may have passed, or all seats may have been filled.

When do late fees apply?

Registration closes 7 days prior to the test date. A late fee of US$40 is charged for registrations received after this deadline. Late registration closes 4 days prior to your test date.

I missed the deadline for scheduling a test. What should I do?

Unfortunately, you will need to select another test date.

I keep getting a message saying that my session has expired. What should I do?

Your session times out after a period of inactivity for security reasons. You will need to log back in to the system. Any transaction you were working on at the time will not be saved.

What if I need to cancel or reschedule?

You can reschedule or cancel your registration up to 4 days before your test date. That means if your test is on a Saturday, you must reschedule or cancel by Tuesday. The fee to reschedule is US$60 and it must be paid before you can register for another date. If your request is not received at least 4 days in advance, your test fee will not be refunded. Test center staff cannot make schedule changes.

You can reschedule through your ETS account either online or via the TOEFL official app, or contact us by phone – Regional Registration Center

Note: You cannot reschedule or cancel your registration via mail or email.

When you reschedule, be prepared to provide your appointment number and the full name you used when you registered.

Can I get a refund on my test fee?

Yes. If you cancel your registration no later than 4 days before your test date, you can receive a refund of 50% of your original test fee. 

Can I get a refund on my TOEFL iBT Test registration voucher?

If you purchased a registration voucher and wish to get a refund:

  • If you have not yet registered for a test date, contact the organization where you purchased the registration voucher.
  • If you already have a test appointment, follow the regular TOEFL refund procedures found in the TOEFL iBT Registration Bulletin and on the TOEFL website. You can cancel your registration no later than 4 full days before your test date and receive a refund of half the original test fee paid. Refunds are in U.S. dollars. Cash refunds are not available.

If you received a free registration voucher from a sponsor, the refund will go to the sponsor.

What is the TOEFL® Search Service?

  • The free TOEFL® Search Service matches prospective students with participating colleges, universities, post-graduate schools and other educational institutions.
  • If you match the recruitment profile of a participating institution/organization, you may be sent information about programs of study, admissions requirements, financial aid opportunities, fellowships and other education opportunities.

To sign up for the TOEFL Search Service, log in to your ETS account either online or via the TOEFL official app.

  • Online — from your Home page, on the right side under your name and ETS ID, look for the link to “Sign up for the TOEFL Search Service today.”
  • Via the app — from your Home page, select the “person” icon on the top right of the screen, then select “Profile.” You will be able to opt in from that screen.

 

Test Planning and Test Preparation

 

When should I take the TOEFL® test?

Plan to take the TOEFL test 2 to 3 months before your earliest application or other deadline so your scores arrive at your institutions or agencies in time. Find application deadlines by checking each score recipient’s website.

How far in advance do I register?

Register 3 to 4 months before the test date.

Where are TOEFL® test scores accepted?

More than 10,000 colleges, universities and agencies in 150 countries accept TOEFL test scores. You can even use your TOEFL scores to satisfy visa requirements in Australia and the U.K. To learn more, see Who Accepts TOEFL Scores.

When should I start preparing for the TOEFL® test?

Start preparing for the test at least 8 weeks before your test date.

What is the best way to prepare for the TOEFL® test?

Practicing your English reading, listening, speaking and writing skills as much as possible will help you feel prepared and confident on test day. We offer resources to make it easier. Because ETS is the maker of the TOEFL test, we offer authentic ETS sample questions and practice tests.  For detailed descriptions of all the test preparation materials and test prep packages available, see test preparation.

Where can I purchase TOEFL®  test preparation materials?

You can purchase TOEFL test preparation guides, practice tests, value packs and courses here.

What is The Official TOEFL iBT®  Tests, Volume 1 book with audio?

This prep book includes 5 real past TOEFL iBT tests, plus all of the audio passages for each test. The book provides you with lots of practice and also includes the TOEFL® Test Prep Planner to help you create an 8-week plan to prepare for the test.

The Official TOEFL iBT® Tests, Volume 1 can be rented from our offices in paperback format: It includes hard copies of 5 real past TOEFL iBT tests, plus an interactive DVD-ROM that includes all the audio passages from each test.

What is TOEFL®  Practice Online?

With TOEFL® Practice Online you can experience actual test questions and get scores and performance feedback within 24 hours. Complete practice tests are available here and can be taken in timed mode to simulate the real TOEFL iBT testing environment.

 

Test Sessions

 

How long is the test session?

The entire TOEFL iBT test session (including check-in) is approximately 3½ hours. The test itself is 3 hours. Check-in time is 30 minutes.

What can I take into the test center?

Identification documents are the only personal items allowed in the testing room. You cannot bring phones, watches or any other electronic devices.

Can I take notes during the test?

You can take notes throughout the entire test, using the paper provided by the test center administrator. At the end of testing, all paper is collected and destroyed at the test center to ensure test security. Do not tear or remove part of any piece of scratch paper.

Do I need to wear headphones for the test?

Yes. You will be given noise-canceling headphones with a microphone that you will speak into for the Speaking section of the test.

Which computer keyboard is used?

The TOEFL iBT test uses a standard English-language (QWERTY) computer keyboard. It takes its name from the first 6 letters in the third row of the keyboard. If you haven’t used this kind of keyboard before, practice on one before test day to become familiar with it. 

Can I take only a specific section or sections of the test?

No. The entire test must be taken at the same time. To receive a score, you must answer at least 1 question each in the Reading section and the Listening section, write at least 1 essay and complete at least 1 speaking task.

 

Test Day

 

What things should I remember to do before test day?

  1. Return to your ETS account, either online or via the TOEFL official app, and check under “Upcoming Tests” to view your registration confirmation. Note any change in the test center (for example, a different time or building than originally scheduled.)
  2. Select the recipients of up to 4 free official score reports before 10 p.m., local test center time, the day before your test, if you did not do so when you registered. If you select your institutions after the 10 p.m. deadline, there is a US$20 fee for each score report. Score recipients cannot be deleted or changed after the 10 p.m. deadline. Keep in mind that if you select score recipients, you will not be able to have your Speaking and/or Writing section rescored using the Score Review service.
    1. If you’re accessing your account online — look under “Upcoming Tests” and click “View/Modify.” Scroll down the page, click “Edit Free Score Recipients,” and search for and select up to 4 institutions. Choose the appropriate department if prompted. To finalize, remember to scroll down and save your changes.
    2. If you are using the TOEFL official app — from your Home page, go to the menu next to the test date and tap “Score Recipients.” Select “Add Score Recipient” to continue.
    3. Bring valid identification that exactly matches the name you used when you registered. If you do not have acceptable identification (ID), you may not be permitted to test and your test fee will not be refunded. See ID Requirements for details.
    4. Make travel plans to get to the test center. Your test registration confirmation will list the street address of the test center. Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled start time.

What do I need to bring on test day?

There is only 1 important thing you need to bring with you on test day:

  • Acceptable, valid identification (ID) with your name, recent photograph and signature. You will be required to enter ID information before you can register and the ID you bring on test day must exactly match the name you used when you registered. ID requirements vary depending on where you plan to test and your citizenship. See ID requirements for more details.

What happens on test day?

Here are a few things to keep in mind on test day:

  • Arrive at the test site at least 30 minutes early. If you arrive late, you may not be admitted and your test fee will not be refunded.
  • Bring the valid ID you used when you registered for the test. See What to Bring for more details. Without the required ID, you will not be permitted to test and your test fee will not be refunded.
  • There is a 10-minute break midway through the test.
  • The test takes approximately 3 hours, and you cannot go beyond the time limit.
  • No electronic devices or other personal items are allowed in the testing room.

Watch a short video for a preview of what to expect when you go to a TOEFL iBT test center.

See what to expect on test day for more details.

Will I be allowed to go for a break during the test?

  • You can use the restroom at any time, but remember that the total length of the test is approximately 3 hours. The time clock does not stop while you are absent. There is a mandatory 10-minute break for all test takers after the Reading and Listening sections of the test have been completed.
  • Raise your hand if you need to leave your seat for any reason.
  • If you leave the testing room, you must show your identification document when you leave and when you return.
  • You cannot use your phone, watch or any other electronic device or unauthorized aid during the test or during breaks.

What should I do if I see suspicious behavior at the test center?

Please contact ETS as soon as possible to report any observed behavior that may lead to an invalid score — for example, someone copying from another test taker, taking a test or part of a test for someone else, having access to test questions or answers before the test, or using notes or unauthorized aids. All information is held in strictest confidence.

Email: reportcheating@toefl.org

Phone: +1-609-406-5430 

 

Scores and Score Reports

 

What are TOEFL scores like?

The TOEFL iBT test provides scores in 4 skill areas — Reading, Listening, Speaking and Writing — and a total score:

  • Reading 0–30
  • Listening 0–30
  • Speaking 0–30
  • Writing 0–30
  • Total Score 0–120

The total score is the sum of the 4 skill scores.

What is on my score report?

Your score report includes scores for each test section, a total score and your MyBest™ scores. This new feature combines your best scores for each section from all of your valid TOEFL iBT scores in the last 2 years to give you a way to show your best overall test performance.

How and when do I get my scores?

Scores will be posted online approximately 6 days after you take the test. Log in to your ETS account either online or via the TOEFL official app. In your online account, from your Home page, select “View Scores.” Using the TOEFL official app, from your Home page, tap the “Scores” tab at the bottom of the screen.

Select the appropriate test date, and in the menu next to it, tap “Score Details.” A score report posting schedule (PDF) for each test date is available on the TOEFL iBT website, and you will receive an email letting you know when your scores have been posted.

You can also download and print a PDF copy of your test taker score report. The PDF will be available within 8 days after your test dates. 

Your scores are also sent to the institutions or agencies you selected (and to you, if you requested a paper copy before you took the test) within 11 days after you take the test. Allow 7–10 days for mail delivery in the United States and 4–6 weeks for other areas. ETS has no control over mail delivery to locations around the world. We recommend that you take the test 2 to 3 months before your earliest application or other deadline.

How soon do score recipients get my scores?

Score reports are sent electronically or mailed to recipients within 11 days after the test date. However, ETS has no control over mail delivery to various locations around the world. Allow an additional 7–10 days after the mailing date for delivery in the United States, and 4–6 weeks for locations outside the United States. For information specific to your location, contact your postal service.

How long are scores valid?

ETS reports scores for 2 years after the test date.

Why are test scores only valid for two years?

A test-taker’s skills can improve or decline over time. For this reason, the more recent the score, the more likely it is to be a valid indication of English-language ability. Scores will be kept on file and reported for two years.

How many score reports are included in my TOEFL test fee?

Your test fee includes:

  • your scores, posted to your ETS account
  • a paper copy of your Test Taker Score Report (only if you requested it before you took the test)
  • a PDF copy of your Test Taker Score Report, which can be downloaded and printed from your account (Note: PDF score reports are currently not available for tests taken in China.)
  • up to 4 official score reports that ETS will send directly to the institutions or agencies you select before you take the test. Keep in mind that if you designate any institution or agency to receive your scores, you will not be able to have your Writing and/or Speaking sections rescored through the Score Review service.

Can I order additional official score reports?

Yes, you can order additional score reports once your scores are available online, approximately 6 days after the test date. The fee is US$20 for each score report.

How do I order additional score reports?

You can order additional score reports as soon as your test scores are available, approximately 6 days after you take the test. You can send your scores to as many institutions or agencies as you choose for a fee of US$20 per report.

Order online using your ETS account: Select “Send Additional Score Reports” from your Home page. Select the appropriate test date and click “Continue.” Search for your score recipient(s) and follow the remaining screen prompts.

Order via the TOEFL official app using your ETS account: Select the “Scores” tab at the bottom of the screen, tap “Send Additional Score Reports” and follow screen prompts.

Order by Fax: Fill out the TOEFL iBT® Additional Score Report Request Form (PDF). Fax it with your registration number and credit/debit card information to +1-610-290-8972. If you send the same fax more than once, write “DUPLICATE” in large letters on the form to avoid extra charges to your credit/debit card.

Order by Mail: Print and complete the TOEFL iBT Additional Score Report Request Form (PDF). Mail it with your payment as directed on the form.

When will my additional score reports be sent?

  • Online Orders: Score reports will be mailed 3–5 days after we receive your request and payment.
  • Mail and fax orders: Allow 10 business days for processing.
    • ETS has no control over mail delivery to various locations around the world.

Where are TOEFL test scores accepted?

More than 10,000 colleges, universities and agencies in 150 countries accept TOEFL test scores. You can even use your TOEFL scores to satisfy visa requirements in Australia and the United Kingdom. To learn more, see Who Accepts TOEFL Scores.

Can I cancel my scores?

You are given the option of canceling your scores at the end of your test session. You cannot cancel scores for individual sections of the test.

Can I reinstate my cancelled scores?

Yes, you can reinstate your scores if your request is received at ETS within 60 days of your test date, for a fee of US$20, via your ETS account (either online or via the TOEFL official app) or by using the Reinstatement Request Form (PDF). Reinstated scores will be reported online within 3 weeks after we receive your request and payment. Your scores will be posted online and will then be sent to your score recipients (and to you if you requested a paper copy of your score report before you took the test). Note: This applies only to scores that were canceled by the test taker. Scores canceled by ETS cannot be reinstated.

Can I request a score review of my Speaking and/or Writing responses?

Yes, you can request a score review up to 30 days after your test date.

Note: Your scores cannot be reviewed if you have already requested that score reports be sent to an institution or agency.

You can request a review of either the Speaking or the Writing section (US$80 each), or you can request a review of both the Speaking and Writing sections (US$160). To request a score review, log in to your ETS account either online or via the TOEFL official app or complete the Score Review Request Form (PDF). The results will be available 1–3 weeks after we receive your request and payment.

Who do I contact if I have questions about my score report?

Email: toefl@ets.org

Phone: +1-609-771-7100 

September–May: Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–7:45 p.m. U.S. Eastern Time, except for U.S. holidays

June–August: Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5:45 p.m. U.S. Eastern Time, except for U.S. holidays

Phones are busiest on Mondays.

 

After the Test

 

What if my test is rescheduled or there’s a problem at the test center?

If your test administration is canceled before you test, or your test cannot be scored or your scores are canceled due to a testing irregularity, you can select a different test date and you will not be charged the rescheduling fee.

If you arrive at the test center and find out that the test administration has been canceled by ETS, you can reschedule your test at no charge or receive a full refund of your test fee.

If ETS cancels a test administration or cancels scores after you test, and you have incurred travel costs to get to the test center, you may be eligible for a refund of reasonable and documented travel expenses for yourself only within 30 days of your original test date. Refunds are in U.S. dollars. For more information on reimbursement, see Testing Policies.

If I experience technical problems at the test center, can I ask that my test be rescheduled?

In rare instances, technical problems may require late starts and/or rescheduling of the test. If such an event at the test center makes it necessary for you to cancel your test session, or if it is later determined that your scores could not be reported, you can choose to take the test again for free or receive a full refund of the original test fee.

What if I observe questionable or unacceptable behaviour at the test center?

Please contact us as soon as possible to report any observed behavior that may lead to an invalid score — for example, someone copying from another test taker, taking a test or part of a test for someone else, having access to test questions or answers before the test, or using notes or unauthorized aids. All information is held in strictest confidence.

Email: reportcheating@toefl.org

Phone: +1-609-406-5430

Does ETS ever cancel scores?

ETS may cancel scores for administrative errors (for example, improper timing, improper seating, defective materials and defective equipment), natural disasters or other emergencies, improper access to test content, identification discrepancies, misconduct, plagiarism and inconsistent performance across different parts of the test. If your scores are canceled after they have already been reported, ETS will send a copy of your cancellation letter to any institution or agency that has received your scores.

Test Section Details

What is the Reading section like?

  • The Reading section includes 3 or 4 reading passages. There are 10 questions per passage. You have from 54 to 72 minutes to answer all the questions in the section.
  • TOEFL iBT Reading passages are excerpts from university-level textbooks that would be used in introductions to a discipline or topic. The passages cover a variety of different subjects. Don’t worry if you’re not familiar with the topic of a passage. All the information you need to answer the questions will be included in the passage.

What is the Listening Section like?

The Listening section includes questions about academic lectures and longer conversations in which the speech sounds very natural. You can take notes on any audio material throughout the entire test. The Listening section takes 41 to 57 minutes and is composed of:

  • 3 to 4 lectures, each 3 to 5 minutes long, 6 questions per lecture
  • 2 to 3 conversations, each 3 minutes long, 5 questions per conversation

What is the Speaking Section like?

The Speaking section is approximately 17 minutes long and includes 4 questions.

  • The first question is called an “independent speaking task” because it requires you to draw entirely on your own ideas, opinions and experiences when you respond.
  • The other 3 questions are called “integrated speaking tasks” because they require you to integrate your English-language skills — listening and speaking or listening, reading and speaking — just as you would in or out of a classroom.

You will speak into the microphone on your headset and your responses will be recorded and sent to ETS, where they will be scored by a combination of AI scoring and certified human raters.

How are my Speaking responses scored?

  • Your Speaking section responses are sent to ETS, where a combination of AI scoring and multiple human raters score them holistically on a scale of 0 to 4. The average score on the 4 tasks is converted to a scaled score of 0 to 30.
  • Raters do not know test takers’ identities. This prevents the bias that can occur in other tests that use a face-to-face interview with a single rater. Your responses aren’t expected to be perfect, and even high-scoring responses may contain occasional errors. Pronunciation does not need to sound like that of a native English speaker. The raters are listening for the effectiveness of your communication and your ability to accomplish the tasks you are given.
  • See the Speaking scoring guides to help you understand how responses are evaluated.

What is the Writing section like?

The total time for the Writing section is 50 minutes. You are asked to write responses to 2 writing tasks: an integrated writing task and an independent writing task.

  • Integrated writing task (20 minutes) — read a short passage and listen to a short lecture, then write in response to what you read and listened to.
  • Independent writing task (30 minutes) — write an essay in response to a writing topic.

Get The Official Guide to the TOEFL® Test for a list of sample writing topics. Go to your ETS account, either online or via the TOEFL official app, to purchase the Guide.

You’ll type your responses on the computer keyboard and they will be sent to ETS for scoring. See TOEFL iBT Writing Practice Sets.

How are Writing responses scored?

  • Your Writing section responses are scored holistically on a scale of 0 to 5 using a combination of AI scoring and human raters. The average score on the 2 tasks is converted to a scaled score of 0 to 30.
  • You’re not expected to produce a comprehensive essay about a specialized topic — your response is recognized as a first draft. You can receive a high score with an essay that contains some errors.
  • See the Writing Scoring Guides (PDF) to help you understand how responses are evaluated.

 

 

 

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