TOEFL Essentials: Everything You Need to Know

What is TOEFL?

TOEFL stands for Test of English as a Foreign Language. TOEFL is a standardized test that is administered by ETS (Educational Testing Service) to assess the English language proficiency of individuals who wish to study or work in foreign countries.

While it was initially required by English-speaking countries, many foreign countries now also consider TOEFL or IELTS scores as a criterion for immigration. TOEFL is often misconstrued as "Teaching of English as a Foreign Language," but it is actually a proficiency test that is organized by ETS.

TOEFL Test Formats

  • IBT (Internet-Based Test): This test is approximately 3 hours and 10 minutes long and includes a 10-minute break.
  • PBT (Paper-Based Test): This test is approximately 2 hours long and has a fixed fee of $160.

The TOEFL results are accepted by over 10,000 institutions in more than 130 countries. For more information, you can visit the official TOEFL website at www.ets.org/toefl. TOEFL was established in 1964 and originated in the USA. The application fee for IBT ranges from $160 to $250, depending on the location.


Difference between TOEFL and IELTS

TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) and IELTS (International English Language Testing System) are two popular English proficiency tests used to assess a candidate's language skills for studying, working, or migrating abroad. Here are the key differences:

Test Format

  • TOEFL: Primarily computer-based, with a single test format for academic purposes. It includes integrated tasks that combine reading, listening, speaking, and writing skills.
  • IELTS: Offers both paper-based and computer-based options, with two versions: Academic and General Training. The Academic version is for university admissions, while the General Training version is for work, migration, or vocational training.

Test Duration and Sections

  • TOEFL: The test duration has been reduced to approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes (without breaks) or 3 hours and 30 minutes (with breaks). It includes four sections: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing.
  • IELTS: The test duration is 2 hours and 45 minutes. It also includes four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. The Speaking section can be taken separately from the other sections.

Scoring System

  • TOEFL: Uses a 0-120 point scoring system, with each section scored from 0-30.
  • IELTS: Uses a band score system, with scores ranging from 1 to 9 for each section. The final score is the average of the four sections.

Speaking Section

  • TOEFL: The Speaking section is computer-based, where candidates record their answers into a microphone.
  • IELTS: The Speaking section is a face-to-face interview with a trained examiner.

Acceptance and Recognition

  • TOEFL: Accepted by over 13,000 institutions worldwide, including top universities in the US.
  • IELTS: Recognized by over 11,500 institutions globally, including universities in the UK, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand. IELTS is also accepted for immigration purposes in these countries.

Cost and Frequency

  • TOEFL: The exam fee ranges from $160 to $250, depending on the location. There are over 50 test dates available per year.
  • IELTS: The exam fee is around $200-250. There are 48 test dates available per year.

Ultimately, the choice between TOEFL and IELTS depends on your specific needs, goals, and preferences. Consider factors like test format, scoring system, acceptance, and cost when making your decision.


TOEFL vs IELTS Acceptance

Both TOEFL and IELTS are widely accepted English proficiency tests, but acceptance varies by institution and country. Here's a general breakdown:

TOEFL Acceptance:

  • Over 13,000 institutions worldwide accept TOEFL, including top universities in the US, Canada, UK, Australia, and more.
  • Popular universities that accept TOEFL include Harvard, Stanford, MIT, and University of California, Berkeley.

IELTS Acceptance:

  • Over 11,500 institutions worldwide accept IELTS, including universities in the UK, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and more.
  • Popular universities that accept IELTS include University of Oxford, University of Cambridge, University of Melbourne, and University of Toronto.

Key differences:

  • TOEFL is more popular in the US, while IELTS is more popular in the UK, Australia, and New Zealand.
  • Some institutions may prefer one test over the other, so it's essential to check the specific requirements of your desired university.

What to do:

  • Research the acceptance policies of your desired universities.
  • Choose the test that best fits your goals and preparation style.

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