TOEFL Test Prep for U.S. University Admissions

What International Students Should Know About the TOEFL

The Test of English as a Foreign Language Internet-Based Test (TOEFL iBT) is an internationally recognized exam developed by the Educational Testing Service (ETS) in 1964. Designed to evaluate the English fluency of non-native speakers, the TOEFL iBT measures core academic skills across reading, listening, speaking, and writing. Accepted by over 12,000 institutions across more than 160 countries, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand, the TOEFL iBT is a crucial step for students aiming to study in English-speaking environments. Most U.S. universities—and thousands of institutions worldwide—require TOEFL iBT scores as part of the admissions process for international students. Preparing early and understanding the updated test format are key to gaining competitive scores and securing a spot at your dream school.

Key Updates to the TOEFL iBT (July 2023 Onward)

What Students and Parents Need to Know About the New TOEFL iBT Format

In July 2023, the Educational Testing Service (ETS) introduced a streamlined version of the TOEFL iBT to make the test shorter, faster, and more focused. The revised TOEFL can now be completed in under 2 hours — a major improvement from the original 3-hour format. Changes include a reduced number of reading passages, fewer speaking tasks, and a simplified writing section. With faster score reporting and a more efficient test structure, students can now demonstrate English fluency without excessive fatigue.

Understanding the New TOEFL iBT Format: Sections, Timing, and Scoring

As of July 2023, the TOEFL iBT has been updated to deliver a more streamlined and student-friendly experience. The test is now shorter, with simplified instructions and fewer questions per section. These changes help reduce fatigue and improve overall test performance. Here's a detailed breakdown of the current format:

Reading Section

• 20 questions total

• 2 passages (10 questions each)

• Time limit: 35 minutes

• Measures ability to understand academic texts and vocabulary in context

Listening Section

• 28 questions total

• 3 lectures and 2 conversations

• Time limit: 36 minutes

• Measures listening comprehension in university-style dialogues and lectures

Speaking Section

• 4 tasks total

• 1 independent and 3 integrated

• Time limit: 16 minutes

• Assesses clarity, fluency, and organization when speaking about familiar and academic topics

Writing Section

• 2 tasks total

• 1 integrated and 1 independent

• Time limit: 29 minutes

• Evaluates ability to summarize, compare, and express ideas in formal written English

Additional Notes

• Total Test Time: Approximately 1 hour and 56 minutes

• Test Format: Internet-based (TOEFL iBT); offered at home or in testing centers

• Scoring:

  • Each section scored 0–30

  • Total Score Range: 0–120

• No penalty for wrong answers

• Speaking and Writing sections are evaluated by both AI and human raters

Tips for Students

What to Know Before You Start TOEFL Prep

Preparing for the TOEFL iBT goes beyond just improving your English. Understanding the test structure, timing, and expectations helps students focus their study time more effectively. Whether you're aiming for university admission or visa requirements, mastering TOEFL iBT strategy is key to success.

TOEFL iBT Test Sections (July 2023 Update)

The TOEFL iBT is structured to evaluate English proficiency across four academic skill areas: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing. Each section is timed and scored separately, with equal weight toward your final score. Understanding the timing and task types helps students prepare with purpose and confidence:

Reading Section

• Academic texts on university-level subjects like science, history, or the arts

• Tests comprehension of main ideas, vocabulary in context, inference, and rhetorical purpose

• Passages are complex, but no prior subject knowledge is required

• Strategy tip: Read the first question first to guide your reading

Listening Section

• Includes conversations (for example: student and professor) and academic lectures

• Tests comprehension of tone, intent, main idea, details, and function

• Accents may vary (North American, British, Australian)

• Strategy tip: Take efficient, organized notes on key ideas and transitions

Speaking Section

• Consists of 4 tasks: 1 Independent and 3 Integrated

• Tests your ability to respond to prompts clearly, fluently, and with appropriate grammar

• Includes reading/listening components in the Integrated tasks

• Strategy tip: Use a structured response format and focus on coherence, not perfection

Writing Section

• Includes 2 tasks: 1 Integrated (reading/listening/writing) and 1 Independent essay

• Tests grammar, structure, clarity, and ability to convey arguments with support

• Strategy tip: Leave 2–3 minutes for proofreading and correcting basic errors

Test Dates and Registration Deadlines

TOEFL Test Availability and Scheduling

Stay on track with your TOEFL iBT planning by reviewing the most current test dates and registration windows directly from the Educational Testing Service (ETS):

• View TOEFL iBT Test Dates →
  For students testing worldwide at home or at test centers.

Note: The TOEFL iBT is offered multiple times each month. Availability may vary by location and format (in-person vs. home testing), so we recommend registering early to secure your preferred date and testing method.