TOEFL

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Master the TOEFL: Your Complete Guide to Success

Everything you need to know about the Test of English as a Foreign Language

What is TOEFL

The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is a standardized test to measure the English language ability of non-native speakers wishing to enroll in English-speaking universities. Created and administered by Educational Testing Service (ETS), the TOEFL evaluates how well you combine your reading, listening, speaking, and writing skills to perform academic tasks.

The TOEFL iBT test is accepted by more than 11,000 universities and other institutions in over 150 countries, including universities in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the UK, the United States, and across Europe and Asia. The test is offered as an internet-based test (iBT) in most locations, with a paper-based test (PBT) available in areas without internet testing. The test takes about 3 hours to complete.

TOEFL Test Structure

The TOEFL iBT test consists of four sections: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing. The Reading section includes 3-4 academic passages with questions. The Listening section includes lectures and conversations with questions. The Speaking section requires you to express an opinion on a familiar topic and speak based on reading and listening tasks.

The Writing section requires you to write essay responses based on reading and listening tasks, and to support an opinion in writing. The entire test is taken in one day, with a 10-minute break after the Listening section. The test uses a combination of human raters and automated scoring methods to ensure fairness and quality in the scoring process.

TOEFL Scoring System

The TOEFL iBT test is scored on a scale of 0 to 120 points. Each of the four sections (Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing) receives a scaled score from 0 to 30. The scaled scores from the four sections are added together to determine the total score. Speaking responses are scored by both AI and human raters, while Writing responses are scored by at least one human rater and one automated scoring system.

Score reports are available approximately 6 days after your test date. Your scores are valid for two years after your test date. Most universities require a minimum total score between 70-90, with some competitive programs requiring 100 or more. Some universities also have minimum score requirements for each section.

Test Dates & Locations

The TOEFL iBT test is offered more than 50 times a year at authorized test centers worldwide. You can take the test as many times as you wish, but you cannot take it more than once in a 3-day period. The home edition of the TOEFL iBT test is available in most countries except Mainland China and Iran.

Test appointments are scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis. You can register online, by phone, or by mail. The test fee varies by country but is generally between $180-$300 USD. Late registration incurs an additional fee. Rescheduling or canceling your test also involves fees, so plan your test date carefully.

TOEFL Preparation Tips

Effective TOEFL preparation typically requires 2-3 months of regular study. Begin by taking a practice test to assess your current English level. Focus on improving your academic English skills, especially reading and listening to academic materials. For the Speaking section, practice speaking English regularly and record yourself to improve pronunciation and fluency.

Use official ETS preparation materials as they provide the most accurate representation of the actual test. Create a study schedule that covers all four sections of the test. Take several full-length practice tests under timed conditions to build stamina. On test day, arrive early, bring valid identification, and remember to pace yourself during each section.

Why Take the TOEFL for Studying Abroad?

The Global Standard for English Language Proficiency Assessment

Global Recognition

Accepted by more than 11,000 institutions across 150+ countries, including top universities in the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and Europe.

Academic Preparedness

Assesses your ability to understand lectures, participate in discussions, and complete academic writing tasks - exactly what you'll need at university.

Visa Advantages

Recognized by immigration departments worldwide. Certain scores can streamline your visa process or qualify you for specific student visas.

Scholarship Opportunities

Strong TOEFL scores often make you eligible for university scholarships and financial aid packages for international students.

Flexible Testing Options

Available both at test centers and as a home edition, with multiple test dates throughout the year for your convenience.

Career Advancement

Beyond academics, TOEFL scores are recognized by professional licensing bodies and employers in many English-speaking countries.

Ready to begin your TOEFL preparation journey?

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TOEFL vs IELTS: Which Test Should You Choose?

Key Differences to Help You Decide the Right English Proficiency Test

TOEFL
IELTS
Test Format
Fully computerized (iBT) or paper-based
Paper-based or computer-delivered options
Speaking Section
Recorded responses via computer
Face-to-face interview with examiner
Accent Exposure
Primarily North American accents
Variety of English accents (British, Australian, etc.)
Scoring Scale
0-120 (sum of four 0-30 section scores)
0-9 band scale (with 0.5 increments)
Result Time
6-10 days for iBT
13 days for paper test, 3-5 days for computer
Preferred By
US universities (90% prefer TOEFL)
UK/Australian institutions and immigration

Which Test is Right For You?

Choose TOEFL if:

  • Applying to North American universities
  • More comfortable with computer-based tests
  • Prefer standardized multiple-choice questions
  • Need faster results (6-10 days)

Choose IELTS if:

  • Applying to UK/Australian institutions
  • More comfortable with face-to-face speaking
  • Need test for both study and immigration
  • Prefer paper-based testing option

Still unsure which test to take?

Get Personalized Advice

Top Countries & Universities Accepting TOEFL

Global Recognition Across Premier Academic Institutions

United States

  • Harvard University
  • Stanford University
  • MIT
  • All Ivy League schools
  • 90% of US universities prefer TOEFL

Canada

  • University of Toronto
  • University of British Columbia
  • McGill University
  • 100% of top 20 Canadian universities
  • Preferred for SDS student visa program

United Kingdom

  • University of Oxford
  • University of Cambridge
  • Imperial College London
  • London School of Economics
  • 100% of Russell Group universities

Australia

  • University of Melbourne
  • Australian National University
  • University of Sydney
  • All Group of Eight universities
  • Accepted for Australian student visas

Germany

  • Technical University of Munich
  • Ludwig Maximilian University
  • Heidelberg University
  • 100% of Excellence Initiative universities
  • Required for English-taught programs

Netherlands

  • University of Amsterdam
  • Delft University of Technology
  • Utrecht University
  • All Dutch research universities
  • Minimum score typically 80-90

TOEFL Preparation with Vibedu

Your Complete Pathway from Test Prep to Study Abroad Success

Comprehensive TOEFL Prep

  • Personalized coaching tailored to your level
  • 30+ full-length mock tests with detailed analytics
  • Daily doubt-clearing sessions with experts
  • Flexible online & offline classroom options
  • Score improvement guarantee

End-to-End Study Abroad Support

  • University selection counseling
  • SOP & LOR drafting assistance
  • Application documentation support
  • Visa interview preparation
  • Scholarship application guidance

98% student satisfaction rate

5000+ students guided abroad

15+ years of combined expertise

TOEFL Scholarships Based on Your Score

Unlock Financial Aid Opportunities with Your TOEFL Performance

90-100

Good Score Range

Available Scholarships:

  • $2,000 - $5,000 merit-based awards
  • Partial tuition waivers at state universities
  • Department-specific scholarships
101-110

Excellent Score Range

Available Scholarships:

  • $5,000 - $10,000 academic excellence awards
  • University-wide merit scholarships
  • Graduate teaching/research assistantships
111-120

Outstanding Score Range

Available Scholarships:

  • Full tuition waivers at many institutions
  • $10,000+ prestigious scholarships
  • Named fellowships for international students
💡

Pro Tip: Many universities automatically consider you for scholarships when you apply with strong TOEFL scores - no separate application needed!

Important FAQs About TOEFL

Get Answers to Your Most Common Questions

Is the TOEFL accepted by all universities abroad?

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Yes, TOEFL scores are accepted by over 11,000 universities and institutions in more than 150 countries, including the USA, Canada, UK, Australia, and more.

How long is the TOEFL score valid?

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TOEFL scores remain valid for a period of 2 years from your test date. After that, you'll need to retake the test for fresh scores.

How many times can I take the TOEFL?

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You can take the TOEFL as many times as you want, but there must be a gap of 3 days between attempts. Most students take the test 1–2 times.

Does Vibedu offer TOEFL coaching online?

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Yes! Vibedu offers both live online TOEFL classes and offline classroom training. You also get free mock tests, materials, and individual mentoring.

Can I apply to US universities with only a TOEFL score?

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Most US universities accept TOEFL scores as proof of English proficiency. However, you may also need GRE/GMAT depending on the course and university.

Study Destinations

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