Are you someone aspiring to study or work abroad in an English-speaking country? If so, you might have definitely come across the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). Accepted in more than 12,500 institutions in over 160 countries, TOEFL opens doors to huge employment and migration opportunities. With its huge influence on future academic and career prospects, understanding the TOEFL exam and navigating through its registration process is pivotal. We have prepared an in-depth blog on what TOEFL is and a step-by-step guide on TOEFL exam registration. So, dive in!

What is TOEFL?

A standardized academic English test, the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) was primarily targeted towards students applying to universities in the US. Nowadays, universities and institutions outside the US also use TOEFL as proof of English language proficiency. It assesses the aptitude in using and comprehending English at the university level. The test evaluates four essential key skills: Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking. TOEFL scores are widely accepted by colleges, institutions, and organizations globally.

TOEFL is designed and developed by ETS (Educational Testing Services), located at Princeton University. It was introduced in 1964 as a paper-based test (TOEFL-PBT), then changed to a computerized version in 2005 (TOEFL-CBT), and finally an internet-based version (TOEFL-iBT), that we see and experience today.

The TOEFL exam comes in various formats to accommodate the candidate’s needs and locations when it comes to testing English language proficiency. It is essential to understand the types of TOEFL tests to select the right one for your premise. Let’s have a closer look at the various types of TOEFL tests:

TOEFL iBT (Internet Based Test): 

The TOEFL iBT is the most commonly and widely acknowledged version of the TOEFL test that is purely internet-based. It is administered online and is available across numerous test centers in the world.

The test comprises four sections: Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking.

1. Reading: Evaluates a person’s ability to understand and analyze academic materials. This section usually contains 3-4 passages with 10 questions each. The time duration for the reading section is around 35 minutes.
2. Writing: Measures the candidate’s skill to write English in an academic context. The section consists of mainly two tasks, one is to write an essay based on listening and reading tasks and the second one is to support an opinion in writing. The time allocated for this section is around 29 minutes.
3. Listening: This task aims at assessing the candidate’s ability to understand conversations and lectures in English. Usually, there will be 3-4 lectures and 2-3 conversations included in this one. The time limit for this section is 36 minutes.
4. Speaking: Measures the capacity to speak English effectively in an academic context. In this section, the candidate is required to complete 4 tasks including talking about a familiar topic and responding to questions based on audio and texts. The allocated time for this section is 16 minutes.

Each section is scored on a scale of 0 to 30, with a total score range of 0 to 120.

TOEFL PBT (Paper Based Test): 

The TOEFL-PBT is a traditional paper-based test offered in places where TOEFL iBT is not available. It is becoming less common as more test takers prefer TOEFL-iBT (over 97%). It is also a four-segment assessment comprising Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking.

1. Reading: It evaluates the candidate’s ability to read and understand academic texts. It consists of 3 to 4 passages with multiple-choice questions. The time allocated for this section is 54-72 minutes.
2. Writing (TWE-Test of written English): In this section, the candidates must write an essay on the given topic. It measures the ability to write in English. The total time for completing this section is around 30 minutes.
3. Listening: This section measures the candidate’s ability to understand spoken English in academic settings. It consists of short conversations. Long conversations and mini-lectures. The time limit for this section is 41 to 57 minutes.
4. Structure and Written Expression section of the TOEFL-PBT: It assesses the candidate’s knowledge in English grammar and usage. This section involves identifying errors in sentences and completing sentences correctly.

TOEFL Essentials

 A new addition was made to the TOEFL test series in 2021, known as TOEFL Essentials. It is a newer and shorter version of the TOEFL test but it focuses on a combination of both academic and general skills rather than just academic language. It tests the same four skills as the other TOEFL exams: Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking.

1. Listening and Reading: Similar to the listening and reading tests in TOEFL-iBT, but is a mixture of academic and general content.
2. Speaking and Writing: This section involves tasks that reflect real-world communication scenarios like conversations and emails.

Choosing the right TOEFL test depends on your location, the ease of access to test centers, and the prerequisites of the university you are applying to. Because of TOEFL-iBT’s comprehensive coverage and widespread popularity, the majority of test-takers choose it. On the other hand, TOEFL Essentials provides a more economical and shorter version with both academic and general content, while TOEFL-PBT is available in areas where internet-based testing is not available.  Choose the exam that best aligns with your situation and the requirements of the institution or university you are applying for.

Oftentimes, it would be overwhelming to navigate through websites and find the correct process to register and book an exam. You don’t have to worry anymore. Our blog provides you with a complete guide on booking the TOEFL exam.

1. Create a TOEFL account: To start with the registration process, create an account on the official TOEFL website. You’ll be required to provide personal information such as your name, contact details, and identification information.
2. Review the test requirements: Make sure you understand the TOEFL test requirements. This includes the identification you need to bring on the test day, any special accommodations you might require, and an understanding of the test’s format and content.
3. Select your test center and date: In the next step you have to choose the test date and center from the available options. Select a date that provides you adequate time to prepare and be ready. The availability of test centers and dates can vary, so be an early bird to secure your preferred spot.

Pay the test fee: The TOEFL exam requires a fee, which varies according to your location or any additional service you may require. Payment can be made online using credit or debit cards. Be sure to check the updated information on the requirements on the official TOEFL website

1. Online Booking: The easiest and most efficient way to book the TOEFL Exam is through the official website. Follow the instructions provided, select the test date and location, complete the payment, and receive the confirmation.
2. By phone: It is also possible to book the TOEFL Exam through your phone. Check the official TOEFL website to see the information for phone bookings.
3. Through a test center: You can also contact a local TOEFL Test center and book your exam. They can assist you with the complete registration and booking process.

Documents required for  TOEFL Exam

1. Valid Passport
2. National photo ID: If the candidate does not have a valid passport, National ID can be an alternative.
3. Parental consent: Candidates below 15 years of age require a parental consent letter that can be downloaded from the official ETS website.
4. Registration: After registration, it is important to obtain registration confirmation for future reference.
5. Test center details: It is good for the candidates to have test center details, like address and contact details.

On The Day of The Test

1. Arrive early: Make sure you reach the test center early to complete check-in procedures and reduce stress.
2. Follow test center instructions: Stick on to the instructions from the test center staff, including rules on personal belongings.
3. Manage your time effectively: effectively manage your time for each section to ensure you complete all the questions within the limited time.
4. Stay calm and focused: Be calm and focused during the test. If you find it difficult to answer a question, don’t stress out, just move on to the next question.

After The Test Day

1. Receive your scores: Your TOEFL score will be available online within 6 to 10 days after you take the test. Log in to your account to view and download your report.
2. Send scores to institutions: Send your scores to institutions or agencies through your TOEFL account. 
3. Prepare for the next steps: Based on your score, take the necessary steps for your academic or professional goals.

Booking and preparing for the TOEFL exam includes various steps, from understanding the test format and registration process to preparing for the test day and managing post-exam tasks. With the help of our blog, you can navigate the exam process with confidence and increase your chances of achieving a score that meets your goals. Good luck with your TOEFL journey and may your preparation lead to success.