TOEFL Exam

What is the TOEFL iBT Test?

The TOEFL iBT® test, administered via the Internet, is an important part of your journey to study in an English-speaking country. In addition to the test, the ETS TOEFL Program provides tools and guides to help you prepare for the test and improve your English-language skills.

Who takes the TOEFL Test?

More than 27 million people from all over the world have taken the TOEFL test to demonstrate their English-language proficiency. The average English skill level ranges between Intermediate and Advanced.

• Students planning to study at a higher education institution
• English-language learning program admissions and exit
• Scholarship and certification candidates
• English-language learners who want to track their progress
• Students and workers applying for visas

Where Can I Get Local, In-language Support?

You can contact a local TOEFL iBT Resource Center for general in-language information about the TOEFL test and test preparation. TOEFL iBT Resource Centers are available in specific countries.

Where and When Can I Take the TOEFL iBT Test?

The TOEFL test has more test dates (30–40 per year) and locations (4,500 test centers in 165 countries) than any other English-language test in the world. You can retake the test as many times as you wish, but you can only take the test once within a 21-day period.

Watch a short video (Flash) to see what happens at one of our TOEFL iBT test centers on test day.

What to expect on Test day

Knowing what to expect can put you more at ease on test day. Here is what typically happens:

Before the Test

• Plan to arrive at the test center at least 30 minutes before your specified start time. If you come late, you may not be able to take the test.
• ETS reserves the right to ensure the security of the test content by using electronic detection scanning devices (e.g., hand-held metal detectors/wands). Failure to comply will result in dismissal from the test and forfeiture of your test fees.
• Your photo will be taken and placed at your assigned seat. It will also appear on your score report.
• You will be asked to sign a required confidentiality agreement.
• Identification documents are the only personal items you are allowed to have in the testing room. Cell phones and other electronic devices are not permitted.
• Your seat will be assigned by the test administrator.
• No schedule changes can be made at the test center.
• Testing premises may be videotaped for security reasons.
• ID verification may also include thumb printing, signature comparison or other forms of electronic ID confirmation.

During the Test

• The test takes about 4 1/2 hours. No one is allowed to continue beyond the time limit.
• There is a mandatory 10-minute break midway through the test.
• Watch your pace so you do not go over your time for each section; the computer is the official timekeeper.
• If you need help for any reason, simply raise your hand.
• Cell phones and other devices are not permitted during the test or during breaks. (If you have health-related needs requiring you to bring equipment, beverages or snacks into the testing room or to take extra or extended breaks, you need to request accommodations in advance. Procedures for requesting accommodations are described in the Bulletin Supplement for Test Takers with Disabilities or Health-related Needs)
• A standard QWERTY English-language keyboard is used for the test. It is a good idea to practice on this type of keyboard prior to the test so that you are familiar with the layout and function keys.
• Scrap paper is provided and must be returned at the end of the test.

After the test

• Your scores will be posted online approximately 10 days after the test date.
• You can view your scores online by logging into your TOEFL iBT test account and selecting "View Scores" on your home page.
• Scores are also mailed to you (if you requested a paper copy) and the universities or institutions you selected approximately 13 days after the test date.
• You can take the test again to improve your scores.

TOEFL Exams