TOEFL Exam Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
TOEFL
Talk to ExpertThe TOEFL exam is a crucial assessment for non-native English speakers who wish to study or work in English-speaking countries. As the demand for this test grows, so do the questions surrounding it. This article has the answer to the most frequently asked questions about the TOEFL exam.
The TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) exam is an important assessment for non-native English speakers who wish to study or work in English-speaking countries. Many people have questions about this exam, especially those who are preparing to take it for the first time.
Understanding the TOEFL can help candidates feel more confident and ready for the test. In this article, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the TOEFL exam, including details about its format, registration process, scoring system, and preparation tips.
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Q. What are the eligibility criteria for TOEFL?
A. According to the ETS, the conducting body of TOEFL, as it is an English language proficiency test, so, there will not be any specific eligibility criteria for giving the TOEFL exam. Anyone who wishes to work or study abroad can give this exam to prove his/her English language proficiency for getting admission to universities or organizations based in English-speaking countries. Apart from this, there is also no set age limit for giving the TOEFL exam, generally, those who have completed their high school or equivalent can give this exam.
Q. What is the difference between the TOEFL iBT and TOEFL paper-delivered tests?
- The TOEFL iBT test is delivered via the internet and is administered online at testing sites across the globe. It monitors the reading, writing, speaking and listening skills of the candidates and is offered 50 times a year.
- The TOEFL PBT test was a paper-and-pencil test, which has been discontinued now used to analyze the reading, writing, grammar and listening skills of the candidates. It was offered in areas where testing through the internet was not possible.
- The revised TOEFL paper-delivered Test, which replaced the TOEFL PBT test analyses the writing, reading, and listening skills of the candidates. Speaking skills cannot be measured because of the limitations of capturing spoken responses. The TOEFL paper-delivered test has been resumed, keeping covid restrictions in mind.
- ETS has also launched TOEFL at Home: Which is the TOEFL iBT test that can be taken from the safety of the home of the candidate as long as he/she has the required system requirements and a conducive environment for the entire duration of the test.
Q. What is the fee refund policy for this exam?
A. Canceling the registration before the 4-days advance deadline then only half of the test fee will be repaid. Refunds are paid only in US dollars and cash refunds are also not available.
Q. What is a TOEFL iBT® Resource Center?
A. It is the centre where one can visit in person and get complete information about the TOEFL test and registration. Some centres assist candidates in registering online and paying a fee with the candidate’s credit card. Apart from this, in some areas, candidates can purchase a TOEFL iBT Registration Voucher in the local currency. Moreover, a printed TOEFL® Test Prep Planner is provided to the aspirants for free if they register with the help of a TOEFL iBT Resource Center.
Q. Can I retake the TOEFL test? How many times can I give the TOEFL exam?
A. Yes, the aspirants can retake the TOEFL test as many times as they wish, however, one cannot take it more than once in 3 days. If the candidate has already registered for the exam, then he/she cannot register again for the test within 3 days of their existing appointment.
- In case the violation is identified after registration, the test appointment of the candidate will be cancelled.
- If the violation is identified after the test, then the score of the candidate will be cancelled and the test fee will also be not refunded.
Q. What is the difference between TOEFL and IELTS? Which exam should you take?
A. Both exams are designed to measure the English language proficiency of a person in four skills – reading, writing, listening and speaking. These two exams are accepted widely by universities and organizations to certify the English proficiency of a person. The IELTS exam is used for educational and occupational purposes. The IELTS exam uses British English and is favoured by the United Kingdom and institutions in Commonwealth nations like Australia and New Zealand.
Whereas the TOEFL test measures the ability to communicate in English in academic or classroom-based settings. The TOEFL exam uses American English and is favoured more in American institutions. In the TOEFL exam, there are mostly multiple-choice questions, on the other hand in the IELTS exam one has to answer different types of questions like gap-filling, short answer, and short essay tasks. Apart from this, the duration of the IELTS exam is 2 hours and 40 minutes, whereas the TOEFL exam is four hours long.
Note: Always check the requirements of the university/program or the organization to which you are applying before deciding which exam to take.
Quick Read: Choosing between TOEFL and IELTS: A Comparison
Q. When should I register for the TOEFL test?
A. As seats are filled quickly, it is always advisable to register early for the TOEFL exam. It is suggested to register 3 to 4 months before you plan to take the test. Also, the test date should be at least 2-3 months before your nearest application deadline.
Q. How can I prepare for the TOEFL test?
A. By practising more and more one can achieve a perfect score. There are numerous practice tests provided by different institutions available online. Apart from this, with the official practice test, candidates gain the experience of taking the real test. With this, the candidates can review and answer questions and also obtain the scores within 24 hours.
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Q. How can I order an Additional Score Report?
A. One can order an Additional Score Report just after receiving the test scores. Usually, candidates receive their test scores approximately within 10 days of taking the test. Candidates are charged US$35 for ordering each Additional Score Report. Candidates can order the Additional Score Report by phone, mail or online.
Also Read: How to send TOEFL scores to Colleges
Q: What is TOEFL?
The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is a standardized test evaluating your ability to use and understand English at the university level. It's widely accepted by universities and educational institutions globally, particularly in English-speaking countries like the US, UK, Canada, and Australia, for admission purposes. The test comprises four sections: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing, each designed to assess your proficiency in key academic English skills.
Q: Is TOEFL easier than IELTS?
Candidates should note that both TOEFL and IELTS are English language tests that have been designed for the benefit of students wanting to study in English speaking country abroad. These English proficiency tests will examine the English proficiency skills of the applicant and inform the university whether the candidate is fit for the curriculum. Hence, both exams have been created at par with each other.
Q: What is TOEFL full marks?
The full marks of TOEFL is 120.
Q: What is the fee of TOEFL exam in India?
The TOEFL fees in India is INR 16, 900. The TOEFL test fees with the test types has been mentioned below.
| TOEFL Test | TOEFL Exam Fee in Indian Rupees |
|---|---|
| TOEFL iBT Exam Fee | INR 16,900 |
| TOEFL paper-based Exam Fee | INR 16,900 |
| TOEFL at Home Exam Fee | INR 16,900 |
| TOEFL Essential Test Exam Fee | INR 9,996.78 |
Q: What is the syllabus of TOEFL exam?
The TOEFL iBT syllabus for students includes testing the candidates' reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. A more detailed layout of the TOEFL syllabus can be found below. Here is the latest TOEFL syllabus for the benefit of our TOEFL test-takers.
Section | Number of Questions / Duration | Description |
Reading | 3–4 passages - 10 questions each | For the TOEFL Reading section, candidates would be required to read multiple passages and answer 30 - 40 questions. |
54-72 minutes | ||
Listening | 3-4 Lectures and 2-3 Conversations - 10 questions each | For the TOEFL Listening section, candidates would be required to answer questions about brief lectures or classroom discussions. |
41-57 minutes | ||
Speaking | 4 tasks | For the TOEFL Speaking Section, candidates would be required to talk about a familiar topic and discuss material they have read and listened to. |
17 minutes | ||
Writing | 2 tasks | For the TOEFL Writing Section, candidates would be required to read a passage, listen to a recording and type their response. |
Q: What are the subjects in TOEFL exam?
The TOEFL is into four main subjects, Reading, Listening, Speaking and Writing. Each subject of TOEFL exam assesses the English language proficiency of non-native speakers, particularly in an academic context.
Q: How to prepare for UK 10th board exam 2025?
Those who are preparing for the UK Class 10 exam 2025 are recommended to follow the tips below.
- Know the exam pattern
- Make a proper time table as per the syllabus
- Solve previous year question papers
- Make short notes of important formulas and theorems
- Revise regularly
- Figure out weaker areas and learn them well
With proper planning and hard work, students can easily clear the UK 10th board exam.
Q: How can I get admission in the University of Manchester?
The application process at the University of Manchester may vary depending on the course and level of study. However, here is the application process for UG and PG courses:
The Undergraduate Application Process:
Step 1: You can apply through the UCAS common application portal.
Step 2: Go to the website and select the course you are interested in.
Step 3: Ensure you meet the Entry requirements (Academic qualifications, English proficiency, etc.
Step 4: Once you decide on the course, submit documents such as SOP, Transcripts and personal statements.
Check out: tips to improve your SOP.
Step 5: You can track the application's progress through your given credentials by UCAS.
Step 6: Once the applicant submits the application to UCAS, it forwards to the University, and the admission teams carefully analyse the application document.
Step 7: The university will send you an offer letter once selected. Hence keep checking your UCAS portal for your application status.
The Postgraduate application process:
Step 1: Select the postgraduate course you are interested in from the University of Manchester.\
Step 2: Ensure you meet the entry requirements for the chosen program, as they vary depending on the course.
Step 3: Complete the online application by providing your personal information.
Step 4: Upload the required documents, such as Academic transcripts and proof of English language proficiency ( TOEFL/ IELTS). experience in your fields and references (depending on the course). You also may require Two LORs depending on the course.
To make your admission better, check out the following: How Admission Officers Evaluate your application.
Step 5: If your application is successful, you will receive an offer from the University of Manchester.
Raushan Kumar is a skilled writer and a Study Abroad Expert in the Editorial Team at Shiksha. He oversees various aspects of studying abroad, including educational opportunities, entrance exams, colleges, latest new... Read Full Bio
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