The TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language - Internet-Based Test) is one of the most important language exams in the world, accepted by over 11,500 educational institutions in more than 160 countries. For international students planning to study in the US, Canada, or other English-speaking countries, the TOEFL is a key component of the university application.
Unlike traditional language tests, the TOEFL exam doesn’t just assess grammar or vocabulary knowledge, but primarily evaluates the ability to use English practically in an academic context. The test assesses four key competencies: reading comprehension (Reading), listening comprehension (Listening), speaking (Speaking), and writing (Writing).
TOEFL iBT Exam Structure
The TOEFL iBT exam lasts approximately 2 hours and consists of four sections:
- Reading (35 minutes) - 2 academic text passages, 10 questions each
- Listening (36 minutes) - academic lectures and campus conversations
- Speaking (16 minutes) - 4 tasks (1 independent, 3 integrated)
- Writing (29 minutes) - 2 tasks (1 integrated, 1 academic discussion)
The maximum score is 120 points (30 points per section). Most prestigious universities require a minimum score of 90-100 points, while the best universities often expect scores of 100+ or even 110+.
Start Our TOEFL iBT Practice Test
Our TOEFL practice test was created following the official exam format. It includes authentic question types, realistic tasks, and detailed instructions that will help you familiarize yourself with the test format and assess your current level of preparation.
Remember that the key to success on the TOEFL exam is regular practice and knowledge of each section’s specifics. Start your preparation today using our practice test!
What Is a Good TOEFL Score?
Determining a “good” TOEFL score depends on your academic goals and the requirements of the universities you plan to apply to:
- 80-90 points - minimum for most American universities, sufficient for less selective schools
- 90-100 points - a competitive score accepted by most universities, including many prestigious ones
- 100-110 points - a high score required by top universities (Ivy League, top 20 universities)
- 110+ points - an excellent score, often required for programs demanding advanced language proficiency (journalism, law)
It’s worth checking the specific requirements of the universities you plan to apply to, as some programs may also have minimum requirements for individual sections (e.g., minimum 25 points in each section for MBA programs).
TOEFL Exam Preparation
Effective TOEFL preparation requires a strategic approach:
- Learn the format - understanding the test structure and question types is the foundation of success
- Practice regularly - daily practice of all four language skills
- Build academic vocabulary - learn terminology from various fields of study
- Practice under time pressure - learn to effectively manage time during the test
- Use official materials - utilize ETS resources (the creators of the TOEFL exam)
College Council offers comprehensive TOEFL exam preparation, including individual tutoring, group preparatory courses, and access to official exam materials. Our experienced instructors will help you achieve the score that opens doors to your dream studies.
Differences Between TOEFL and Other Language Tests
It’s important to understand how TOEFL differs from other popular language tests:
- TOEFL vs IELTS - TOEFL is preferred by American universities and is entirely computer-based, while IELTS has a paper version and is more popular in the UK/Australia
- TOEFL vs Duolingo - TOEFL is widely accepted and has a long history, Duolingo is cheaper and shorter, but accepted by fewer universities
- TOEFL vs Cambridge - TOEFL has limited validity (2 years), Cambridge certificates are indefinite
The choice of the right test depends on your university’s requirements and your personal preferences regarding the exam format.
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