What is TOEFL? A Guide to the Test
Are you trying to get a job or get into university? You may need to show you can speak English. Passing the TOEFL test proves you can speak, write and understand English well. Learn how to take the test.
What is the TOEFL test?
TOEFL stands for Test of English as a Foreign Language. The test shows your skills in speaking, reading, writing, and listening to English.
If you pass the test with a good score, it shows universities that you will be able to take college courses in English. It tells employers and government officials that your English is good. It is the most accepted English test in the world.
Why should I take the TOEFL test?
Taking the TOEFL test can improve your chances of getting into school or finding a job. Studying for the test can also help you get better at speaking and writing in English.
What is on the TOEFL test?
The test has 4 sections: reading, listening, speaking, and writing. It takes about 2 hours to complete.
- Reading: 35 minutes
- Listening: 36 minutes
- Speaking: 16 minutes
- Writing: 29 minutes
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How do I take the TOEFL test?
You will take the TOEFL through a testing service called ETS. You will need to go to a testing center to take the test in person. You also have the option to take the test at home. You will have to use a computer.
Find your TOEFL testing center
The ETS website also lists testing centers in the USA and other countries. After you choose your testing center, the website will show you the dates on which you can take the test at that center.
Taking the TOEFL online
You can also take the test online from home if you meet equipment and space requirements. Make sure you meet these requirements before registering for an online test.
Register for the TOEFL test
You cannot book your test until you register online. You will need to create an account with ETS.
How can I prepare?
Unless you already have good English skills, you will need to study for your test. The ETS website offers official resources to help you study for your test. Many of the resources are free, but some of them are not.
Study
Do you want to learn English at home or on your mobile device? Here are some of the best free online English classes and mobile apps we have found.
Do you want to take a class? Search in FindHello to find a free English class near you. Enter your city or address, and then select “Education and English classes.” You can also go to your local library, community center, or employment center and ask if they free offer English classes.
What is a passing score?
You will get a score for each 4 sections and a total score. Your score will fall within 4-5 proficiency levels for each skill.
TOEFL does not set a passing or failing score. Your school or employer will have its own requirement of what score you are required to have.
The sections are scored separately. If you fail a section or are not happy with your score, you can take the test again. If you take the test more than once in a two-year period, you can use your best results for each section as your final score.
We aim to offer easy to understand information that is updated regularly. This information is not legal advice.
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