The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is an English language test for non-native speakers. The test is conducted by the Educational Testing Service
(ETS) and is widely accepted by institutions and firms in English speaking countries to determine the proficiency of potential students or employees to speak and understand the language.
Types/Versions of TOEFL
The TOEFL test is either taken as a computer-based test or a paper-based test. The TOEFL IBT is usually preferred by universities and embassies because it tests an applicant’s speaking skills.
Sections and Grading of TOEFL
The computer-based test contains four sections which are listening, reading, speaking, and writing. Each section is scored out of 30 to give an overall score of 120.
The paper-based version has three sections; listening, written expression, and reading. The score range is 310-677. I.e the lowest score is 310 and the highest is 677. The listening and writing expression sections are graded from 31-68 while the reading section is graded from 31-67. The total score is the sum of the three scores from each section, multiplied by 10 and divided by 3.
Candidates that take the paper-based TOEFL test are also required to write an essay which doesn’t count towards their total score. The essay known as Test of Written English (TWE) is scored from 0-6.
What’s a Pass TOEFL Score?
Like other standardized English tests, the minimum score you must obtain in your TOEFL exam is determined by the university or college you’re applying to. The requirement can be as low as 45 or as high as 100 for the TOEFL IBT. Some
universities also set a minimum score for each section while others only consider the overall score.
Validity Period of TOEFL
The test results expire after two years.
Why People Get Low TOEFL Scores
The main reason why people score low in TOEFL is due to lack of preparation and overconfidence. Many educated professionals underestimate the test and end up not achieving their desired score on the first attempt. To prevent falling into this trap, it is best to start preparing for the exam months ahead. You can check out our free TOEFL resources to help you get started.
Tips for Scoring High in TOEFL
Asides from constant solo practice, it is important to have an experienced study partner/teacher to assist you with pronunciation which is an aspect of TOEFL that many people struggle with. Also, build your vocabulary by reading books, magazines, and news articles on various topics.
Tutorial/Training/Prep Courses for TOEFL
We have TOEFL prep courses aimed at helping candidates ace their exams on the first try. To get a sneak peek of what the actual test looks like, you can try out
our free tests. In case you need extra help, we also have dedicated private tutors to assist you prepare adequately for your test.
Test Dates
Available test dates can be found on the ETS website.