TOEFL iBT

About the TOEFL iBT
The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is a test that evaluates non-native English speakers’ ability to read, write, speak, and listen to English in a similar way that it is used in universities.

The test is divided into four sections that integrate all four of these English language skills:

• Reading: 60 minutes, 3 passages, 12-14 questions per passage
• Listening: Up to 60 minutes, up to 72 questions
• Speaking: 6 tasks with 15-30 seconds to prepare and 45-60 seconds to speak
• Writing: 50 minutes, 2 writing tasks

In September 2005, Educational Testing Service (ETS) started to roll out a new TOEFL Internet-based Test (iBT). The new TOEFL test is delivered via the Internet. This allows ETS to capture speech and score responses in a standardized manner, and makes it possible to increase the number of testing centers to meet demand.

ETS has made several changes to the test with the goal of making the TOEFL a more accurate gauge of the English skills needed for academic success. The test material has a more integrated context and is designed to more closely mimic the academic environment. For example, a test taker might read a passage of text and listen to a lecture, and then respond to it verbally or in writing.

TOEFL iBT	Description
Listening/Reading Sections	Listening passages mimic college lectures and follow more “natural” speech patterns, including pauses, corrections, and grammatical errors.Reading passages are more academic in nature to better reflect college reading assignments, and students have access to a glossary.
Structure Section	Grammar skills are tested throughout the test.
Writing Section	There is one 30-minute, and one 20-minute essay.
Speaking Section	Six open-ended speaking questions require test takers to speak into a microphone.
Integrated Language Skills	Some sections of the iBT combine four basic communication skills. For example, a test taker might listen to a lecture and read a passage, then write or speak about it.
Scoring	1-120 (human graders for essay and speaking section).Online score reporting allows students to view their scores at the end of the test.
Time	3.5 hours

TOEFL Scoring
Your composite (or overall) TOEFL score will range from 0 to 120 and is calculated by combining your scores on each of the four sections.

The individual sections are graded separately. You will receive four scores ranging from 0 to 30: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing.

TOEFL scores vary in importance at different schools. Other factors that schools consider include academics, work experience, letters of reference, and scores on other standardized tests (GMAT, SAT, etc.).

The TOEFL iBT Is Coming in Stages
The change to an Internet-based Test (iBT) wasn’t able to be implemented in every testing center at one time. ETS, the administrator of the TOEFL, is still offering the computer-based or pencil and paper test in some cities and some countries. Visit www.TOEFL.org for information on testing in your local area.

The fee to take the TOEFL test varies worldwide.For detailed information regarding fees click here.