Everything You Need To Know About The TOEFL Test

6 min read

Feb 22, 2019

If your parents or teachers told you that English will take you places, they were right! Literally, in fact. If you’re planning to study in an English-speaking school abroad, there’s a great chance you’ll need to take the TOEFL test to prove your English communication skills.   

Here’s a quick guide on what you need to know about the test:

What is the TOEFL test?

The TOEFL—or Test of English as a Foreign Languageis a highly respected test that measures non-native English speakers’ (e.g. Filipinos) ability to read, write, understand, and speak in English. The test helps millions of students to get into English-speaking schools and institutes all over the world.  

Who made the TOEFL test?

The TOEFL test is a product of ETS, a non-profit organization that conducts more than 50 million tests every year at more than 9,000 locations worldwide.

ETS is a team of education experts, researchers and test developers who believe that learning can improve people’s lives. The team designs research-backed and high-quality tests that serve as a reliable basis to schools and workplaces when evaluating people and programs.

Who takes the TOEFL test?

More than 35 million people all over the world have taken the TOEFL test to prove their English-language proficiency.

People who take the test:

  • Students planning to study at a higher education institution
  • Scholarship and certification candidates
  • Students taking admissions and exit tests for an English-language learning program
  • English-language learners who want to track their progress
  • Students and workers applying for visas

Why should you take the test?

An adequate TOEFL test score is an admission requirement of many universities all over the world. Moreover, more than 10,000 universities and institutions accept or prefer the TOEFL scores over other English-language tests.

We’re talking about schools in your favorite countries like the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, France, Germany, and the U.K. So you better get ready for that TOEFL test if you want to study in your dream destination!

A study abroad experience will make you more marketable to potential employers. In fact, one study showed that 97% of students who studied abroad found a job within 12 months of graduation, compared to only 49% of college graduates. Moreover, meeting students from around the world could help you network in the business world.

Which schools accept TOEFL test scores?

Thousands of English-speaking universities all over the world! Does your dream school accept TOEFL test scores? Check out the official website to search TOEFL-accepting schools by name or location. You’ll also find out each school’s score requirement on the page.  

Where and when can you take the test?

There are two types of TOEFL tests:

  • TOEFL iBT® test – conducted online and offered more than 50 times a year at ETS-authorized test centers around the world
  • TOEFL® Paper-delivered Test –  conducted in a paper-based format only in places where testing via the internet is not available

You can find authorized test centers in Baguio, Laguna, Cebu, Legazpi City, Makati, Manila, Pasig, and Quezon City. Check the test dates and fees on the ETS website.

How much does the TOEFL iBT test cost?

The fee varies depending on location. Look up your test location to find information on registration, fees, test dates, and locations.   

What can you expect in the TOEFL test?

You’ll be taking the TOEFL iBT test via the internet. The test has four sections (reading, listening, speaking, and writing), which will take a total of about 4.5 hours.

During the test, you will have to perform tasks to demonstrate your overall English communication skills, such as:

  • Reading and listening, and then speaking to answer a question
  • Reading and listening, and then writing an answer to a question

TOEFL iBT Test Sections:

Section Time Limit Questions Tasks
Reading 60-80 minutes 36-56 questions Read 3 or 4 passages from academic texts and answer questions.
Listening 60-90 minutes 34-51 questions Listen to lectures and conversations, then answer questions.
Break 10 minutes
Speaking 20 minutes 6 tasks Express an opinion on a familiar topic. Speak based on reading and listening tasks.
Writing 50 minutes 2 tasks Read and listen, then write essay responses. Write to support an opinion.

How can you prepare for the TOEFL test?

Get information and tips from the TOEFL test creators themselves! ETS offers lots of helpful and FREE resources to prepare you for exam day. These materials range from free sample questions, practice tests, interactive skill-building programs, and detailed tips and information about the test.

The TOEFL test is your passport to your dream university abroad. Now that you know the basics of the test, you’re one step closer to your study abroad journey. Find and apply to foreign schools on Edukasyon.ph.

Whether you’re studying for IELTS, TOEFL, or TOEIC, review for all the essential English Proficiency Exams here!

Sources:


Also read:
More TOEFL fast facts
TOEFL Prep

 

 

Written By:

Karr Katigbak

Karr writes online content for Edukasyon.ph. She found her passion for writing during her stint as a TV Producer for lifestyle shows and light documentaries. Movies, music, books, and TED talks inspire her—and she's always eager to pass on ideas that make the world a more positive place.

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