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Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the TOEFL^® Internet-based test (TOEFL iBT^TM)?

• The TOEFL test (Test of English as a Foreign Language) measures the ability of non-native speakers of English to use and understand the English language as it is spoken, written, and heard in the university classroom. Over 6,000 universities in 130 different countries accept the TOEFL test as part of their admissions criteria.

  In order for the TOEFL iBT to measure how well you read, listen, speak and write in English, as well as use these skills together, you will be asked to integrate these skills for the test. For example, you may read a passage or listen to a lecture, and then write or speak about what you learned.

• Where and when can I take the TOEFL iBT^TM test?

• The test is given on predetermined dates, 30-40 times a year, at more than 4,000 secure, Internet-based test centers around the globe.

  See a list of test locations and test dates

• Can I take only 1 section of the test?

• No. The entire test must be taken to receive a score. You will receive a score on each section and a total score for the entire test. There is no passing or failing score; score requirements are established by individual institutions or agencies.

  To earn a score on the TOEFL test, you must do all of the following:

  • answer at least 1 question in the Reading section
  • answer at least 1 question in the Listening section
  • write at least 1 essay in the Writing section
  • finish at least 1 task in the Speaking section
• What if the TOEFL iBT is not offered in my location?

• ETS offers the TOEFL^® Paper-based Test (or TOEFL PBT) in areas where the TOEFL iBT is not available.

  The TOEFL PBT is offered 6 times a year. You can register online or by mail.

• How is the TOEFL iBT given?

• The test is given in English, has 4 sections (reading, listening, speaking and writing), and takes about 4 1/2 hours.

  Taking notes is allowed during the TOEFL iBT. The test cannot be taken more than once a week.

  Section	Time Limit	No. of Questions
  Reading	60-100 minutes	36-70
  Listening	60-90 minutes	34-51
  Break	10 minutes	-
  Speaking	20 minutes	6 tasks
  Writing	50 minutes	2 tasks

• How do I get my scores?

• Your scores will be posted online 15 business days after the test date and are also mailed to you and the universities or institutions you selected.

  Included with your registration fees are:

  • 1 print and 1 online score report for you
  • Up to 4 official score reports that ETS will send directly to the universities, institutions, or agencies you select when you register
• Which computer keyboard is used for the TOEFL iBT?

• QWERTY, the most common English-language keyboard, is used. It takes its name from the first 6 letters at the top of the keyboard. Test takers should practice on a QWERTY keyboard before taking the TOEFL iBT.

• How can I prepare and practice for the TOEFL iBT?

• ETS offers a variety of preparation and practice materials-from books to CD-ROMS to interactive programs and free sample questions-to help you do well on the TOEFL iBT.

  ETS also offers you the experience of taking the real TOEFL iBT with TOEFL Practice Online. Register with this web site and you'll have access anytime, 24/7, to authentic TOEFL test questions and exclusive scoring from ETS.

• How do I order additional score reports?

• You can select 4 universities or institutions to receive your score reports. These 4 reports are offered to you at no additional cost and you can choose them at registration, up to the day before you take the TOEFL test.

  After your 4 free score reports, you can send additional score reports to as many institutions as you choose, for a small fee.

• How long are scores valid?

• ETS will report scores for 2 years after your test date.