Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL Exam)
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Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL Exam)
Overview
The TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) measures the English proficiency of non-native speakers in four areas: reading, listening, speaking, and writing. It is typically taken in the iBT (Internet-based Test) format, with a total test duration of about 3 hours. Accepted by over 11,000 institutions globally, TOEFL scores assess a candidate's ability to use English in academic settings. Results are available within 6–10 days.
TOEFL Latest Updates 2024
15 May 2024: The TOEFL test has introduced a new format that may make things easier for test-takers from India! The Reading section has been revamped, now featuring just 2 passages with 10 questions each, down from the previous 3-4 passages. This means less reading and less time spent answering questions. You’ll now only need 35 minutes for the Reading section, compared to the previous 54-72 minutes. While the TOEFL continues to assess your English skills for studying abroad, this change allows you to focus on a smaller amount of material during your preparation.
| Exam Name | TOEFL |
| Conducted by | ETS (Educational Testing Service) |
| TOEFL full form | Test of English as a Foreign Language |
| Widely Popular As | English Language Proficiency Test |
| TOEFL Exam Fees | ₹16,900 INR |
| Score Range | Reading: 0–30, Listening: 0–30, Speaking: 0–30, Writing: 0–30, |
| Accepted by | Universities in USA and Canada |
Why Should You Take TOEFL 2024?
- TOEFL is widely accepted by top universities in the U.S., Canada, the U.K., Australia, and other English-speaking countries, making it essential for Indian students aiming to study abroad.
- The test format has been updated in 2024, with a shorter Reading section, making it more manageable and saving time during preparation.
- TOEFL assesses key academic skills—reading, writing, listening, and speaking—directly relevant to university-level work and helps improve language proficiency for academic success.
- It provides access to various scholarships, visa processes, and job opportunities in English-speaking countries.
- With flexible test dates and fast score reporting (within 6–10 days), TOEFL allows for better planning and quicker decision-making.
- TOEFL is globally recognized, ensuring your qualifications are respected by institutions and employers worldwide.
TOEFL Eligibility
There is no specific age limit for the TOEFL exam, but test-takers must be at least 16 years old. It is open to all non-native English speakers, and candidates must provide a valid government-issued ID for registration.
- There is no specific age limit for taking the TOEFL exam. However, test-takers must be at least 16 years old.
- While there is no formal educational qualification required, the TOEFL is typically taken by students who wish to pursue higher education in English-speaking countries.
- The test is open to all non-native English speakers, regardless of nationality.
- Test-takers must provide a valid government-issued photo ID (such as a passport, national ID card, or driver’s license) at the test center.
- TOEFL is designed for individuals who are not native speakers of English but are seeking to demonstrate their ability to understand and use English in an academic environment.
- If you are under 18 years of age, parental consent may be required to register for the exam.
Registration
1. Create an Account
Register on the official ETS website to create a TOEFL account.
2. Choose Test Date and Location
Select your preferred test date and center from available options.
3. Payment
Complete the payment online using a credit/debit card, PayPal, or other available methods.
4. Early Registration
It’s recommended to register at least 3-4 weeks before your desired test date.
5. ID Requirements
You must provide a valid government-issued photo ID (such as a passport or national ID) at the test center.
6. Confirmation
After successful registration, you’ll receive a confirmation email with your test details.
Exam Pattern
This pattern is for the TOEFL iBT format, which is the most common and widely used version of the exam.
| Section | Duration | Tasks | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reading | 54–72 minutes | 2-3 reading passages (10 questions each) | Tests ability to understand academic texts; includes multiple-choice and other types of questions. |
| Listening | 41–57 minutes | 4–6 listening passages, each followed by questions | Assesses ability to understand spoken English in academic contexts, such as lectures and conversations. |
| Speaking | 17 minutes | 4 tasks (1 independent, 3 integrated) | Measures ability to speak clearly and coherently on academic topics; responses are recorded. |
| Writing | 50 minutes | 2 tasks (1 integrated, 1 independent) | Evaluates writing skills; includes tasks to summarize reading and listening materials, and to express an opinion on a topic. |
TOEFL Reading Section Overview
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 54–72 minutes |
| Number of Questions | 30–40 questions (depends on test version) |
| Passages | 3–4 academic passages (600–700 words each) |
| Question Types |
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| Skills Assessed |
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| Focus | - Understanding main ideas, details, tone, and structure of the passage |
| Score Range | 0–30 points |
TOEFL Listening Section Overview
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 41–57 minutes |
| Number of Questions | 28–39 questions (depends on test version) |
| Audio Content |
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| Question Types |
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| Skills Assessed |
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| Focus | - Comprehending spoken English in academic and everyday contexts |
| Score Range | 0–30 points |
TOEFL Speaking Section Overview
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 17 minutes |
| Number of Tasks | 4 tasks |
| Task Types |
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| Question Types |
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| Skills Assessed |
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| Focus |
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| Score Range | 0–30 points |
TOEFL Writing Section Overview
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 50 minutes |
| Number of Tasks | 2 tasks |
| Task Types |
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| Skills Assessed |
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| Skills Assessed |
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| Focus |
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| Score Range | 0–30 points |
Fees
TOEFL Exam Fees in India
TOEFL Registration Fee Structure
| Fee Type | Amount (INR) |
|---|---|
| Standard Registration Fee | ₹15,000 – ₹18,000 |
| Late Registration Fee | ₹4,000 |
| Rescheduling Fee | ₹4,000 |
| Score Report Fee | ₹1,500 per recipient |
TOEFL Cancellation Fee
- TOEFL iBT Home Edition: The fee for the Home Edition is the same as the in-person exam.
- Free Score Reports: You can send your scores to up to 4 institutions for free. Additional reports will cost ₹1,500 each.
Payment Methods
Payment for the TOEFL exam in India can be made online through a credit card, debit card, or bank transfer.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it's best to visit the official ETS TOEFL India page.
FAQ
1. What is the TOEFL exam?
The TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) measures your ability to understand and use English at the university level. It tests your skills in Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing.
2. Who needs to take the TOEFL exam?
The TOEFL is required by many universities and colleges, especially in the United States, Canada, and other English-speaking countries. It is typically required for non-native English speakers applying for undergraduate, graduate, or professional programs.
3. How much does the TOEFL exam cost in India?
The TOEFL exam fee in India is approximately ₹15,000 to ₹18,000. Additional fees apply for late registration (₹4,000) and rescheduling (₹4,000). Sending extra score reports costs ₹1,500 per recipient.
4. How do I register for the TOEFL exam in India?
You can register for the TOEFL exam online via the ETS TOEFL website. You’ll need to create an account, choose your preferred test center and date, and pay the exam fee. Payment can be made via credit card, debit card, or bank transfer.
5. How many times can I take the TOEFL exam?
You can take the TOEFL exam as many times as you like, but there must be a 12-day gap between retakes.
6. When can I take the TOEFL exam in India?
TOEFL is offered year-round in India, and you can choose from a variety of available test dates. Check the ETS TOEFL website for the test dates at your preferred test center.
7. How long is the TOEFL exam?
The TOEFL iBT exam lasts approximately 3 hours. The Reading and Listening sections are timed together, followed by the Speaking section (17 minutes), and the Writing section (50 minutes).
