TOEFL FAQs

Testing for language proficiency is an important part of getting admission abroad. To move to English-speaking universities and academic spaces, a high score in TOEFL would work wonders when attached to your otherwise decent university application.

A test of this magnitude is sure to raise questions and confusion in your mind. We have gathered a few questions here that are generally asked by students and parents so that you don’t fret over finding information and can rather focus on the test prep.

Why TOEFL?

TOEFL is a necessary requirement for applying to over 12,000 universities in around 150 countries. The score you receive in the exam declares your level of language proficiency which aids you in your academic life and for moving and settling in English-speaking countries.

What are the Eligibility Criteria for TOEFL?

There are no strict eligibility criteria for TOEFL.

How often is the TOEFL conducted?

TOEFL is conducted over 50 times a year on dates that have been decided way earlier. The test is generally conducted online in internet-based test centers worldwide. It is also offered in a paper format in places where the internet is not accessible.

What is the time frame for the TOEFL Test?

It takes slightly less than two hours to finish the test in its entirety, but you should budget 2.5 hours and allow 30 minutes for check-in.

What is the registration process?

Among all the methods available for registration, the online method is the fastest and most reliable. You get to choose your test center and the test date available anywhere in the world. You can choose to register for the exam even 5 months before the test date.

Will I be able to prepare for TOEFL in a month?

Yes, you will be able to prepare for the test in under a month. Considering that it is a language proficiency test, it depends upon the ease with which you deal with the language. The one month can be used to learn the format of the exam and understand strategies to manage time and play to your strengths rather than cramming more external information.

Does my TOEFL score expire?

Yes, TOEFL scores are valid for 2 years from your test date.

What are the skills tested in TOEFL?

The exam focuses on four main sections- Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. These sections are tested based on the criteria put forth by ETS and claim to be one of the best methods to ascertain the language proficiency required in an academic environment.

When will the scores be available after I have taken the test?

Scores will be made available in 4-8 days from the day you have taken the test. Paper score reports will be made available if you opt for them during registration and are mailed within 11-13 days.

Is retaking the test possible?

Yes, you may retake the test innumerable times. But ensure that you keep a 3-day gap between tests.

Am I eligible to take the TOEFL iBT Home Edition test?

The home testing option is open to everyone residing in countries where TOEFL testing is normally available. China and Iran are the only exceptions as of now. The conditions for being able to test at home are-

• You should have a fully functioning computer. You cannot take the test on a phone or tablet.
• Your computer should have a Windows operating system version 10 or 8/ Your Mac should have a Mac OS X 10.5 or higher.
• The speaker and microphone should be in working condition since headsets and earphones are not allowed.
• A webcam that has a 360-degree view should be present. You should be able to show the proctor your tabletop and room before taking the test.
• You should install the ETS Test Browser and pass the ProctorU Equipment Check.
• You should have an environment suitable for the test. Preferably a room that you can have for yourself throughout the test duration.

What is the Rescheduling Cost?

The cost of rescheduling your TOEFL test is $60.

Will I be monitored during the TOEFL iBT Home Testing?

Yes, you will be monitored throughout by a human proctor who will check you in, verify your ID, and then ensure that you are following all procedures. Along with this, you will be monitored by artificial intelligence (AI).

How can I communicate with the proctor during the home-based test?

To contact your proctor, you may use the LogMeIn chat function or speak to get their attention. It might take them a minute to respond so be patient. On the other hand, if the proctor wants to communicate with you, you will be able to see the chat icon of a blue owl bounce on the screen.

Are there any breaks during the home-based test? Will I be able to leave my seat during that time?

There is a 10-minute break provided after the Listening section of the test. You will be permitted to leave the seat but in case you are not back within the stipulated time the proctor is free to terminate your test. Taking unscheduled breaks will also result in the termination of the test.

What is the Cost of Taking TOEFL test

The cost of taking the TOEFL test varies from country to country. For the U.S. the cost is $255

Will they cancel my test if I lose internet connectivity during the test?

Losing the internet connection momentarily will not cancel the test. You will be reconnected to the proctor who will reopen the exam for you. If you are not able to reconnect you may call ProctorU at +1-855-772-8678 and explain the trouble you are having.

Is there any difference in the way universities view scores from a Home Edition Test?

No, since the test is still an official TOEFL iBT test, scores have been accepted by universities similar to the way they have accepted older scores. To confirm whether your university accepts a Home Edition test, visit their website or contact them directly before taking the test.

Is the Home Edition Test made available due to the pandemic? Will this option still be available after the pandemic?

The Home Edition Test has now been declared as a standard test and according to ETS, there are no immediate plans of scrapping this option. Eventually, the option to test at a test center will also be made available.

Can I get an additional score report?

Yes, you may avail of an additional score report for an additional cost of $25 each if you apply for it. You can apply for it only after officially receiving your test scores. Since you can get your score report within 10 days of the test, you may apply for additional reports after this time frame. You may order it by phone, mail, or online.