Types of TOEFL Exam: TOEFL is primarily of three types- TOEFL iBT, TOEFL PBT, and TOEFL iTP. The other types of TOEFL exams include TOEFL Essentials, TOEFL Junior, and TOEFL Primary Tests.
In this article, we will learn about these different types of TOEFL exams!
What is the TOEFL Exam?
Here is the overview of the TOEFL Exam:
TOEFL Full Form | Test of English as a Foreign Language, an internationally recognized English proficiency exam. |
|---|---|
Sections | TOEFL comprises four sections: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing, each assessing different language skills. |
Score Validity | 2 years |
Types of TOEFL Exam | Main Types: (Paper-based (PBT), Internet-Based (iBT) Other types: Institutional Testing Program (ITP) & TOEFL Junior Test |
Conducted By | ETS (Educational Testing Service) |
Free TOEFL Practice Tests
Who Should Take the TOEFL Exam?
The TOEFL exam primarily caters to individuals planning to study overseas or gain admission to international universities and graduate programs. It's also essential for those pursuing scholarships abroad, as TOEFL scores often play a significant role in the application process. Besides academic pursuits, the TOEFL holds relevance for diverse groups, including:
- Those interested in participating in exchange programs in English-speaking countries.
- Applicants seeking visas for English-speaking nations.
- Professionals seeking job opportunities abroad, particularly in roles involving communication with English-speaking clients.
- Non-native English speakers.
- Individuals who haven't had exposure to English-speaking educational environments for at least five years.
- Anyone wishing to formally evaluate their English language proficiency.
In essence, the TOEFL serves as a universal benchmark for assessing English language skills across various contexts.
Types of TOEFL Exam
| TOEFL Format | Description | Components | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| TOEFL iBT | Internet-based, computer-delivered test with four segments: reading, listening, speaking, and writing. Candidates read on-screen, listen using headphones, speak into a microphone, and type responses. | Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing | 3.5 to 4 hours |
| TOEFL PBT | Paper-based test for regions with limited internet access. Comprises reading, listening, and writing sections but lacks a speaking component. | Reading, Listening, Writing | Roughly 2.5 hours |
| TOEFL iTP | Designed for various settings to assess English language proficiency in reading, listening, structure and written expression, and speaking. Primarily used for assessment and diagnosis. | Reading, Listening, Structure and Written Expression, Speaking | Variable |
Other Types of TOEFL Exam
| Test Name | Description | Components | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| TOEFL Essentials | Introduced in 2021 as a shorter alternative to TOEFL iBT. Evaluates general English skills with passages from everyday contexts. Recognized by over 500 institutions worldwide. | General English Skills | Approximately 90 minutes |
| TOEFL Junior | Available in two versions: Standard Test and Speaking Test. Measures English proficiency and provides scores corresponding to CEFR levels. | Standard Test: Listening Comprehension, Language Form and Meaning, Reading Comprehension. Speaking Test: Spoken English Skills | Standard Test: 2 hours, Speaking Test: 18 minutes |
| TOEFL Primary Tests | Designed for young learners aged 8 and older. Assesses listening, reading, and speaking skills to identify strengths and areas for improvement. | Listening, Reading, Speaking | Approximately 1 hour |
Difference Between TOEFL PBT and TOEFL iBT
Aspect | TOEFL PBT | TOEFL iBT |
|---|---|---|
Test Format | Paper-based | Internet-based |
Availability | Limited, mostly in areas without internet access | Widely available, preferred globally |
Sections | Reading, Listening, Writing | Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing |
Scoring | Total score up to 677 | Total score ranges from 0 to 120 |
Duration | Approximately 2.5 hours | About 3 hours |
Speaking Test | Not included | Included |
Accessibility | Less accessible | More accessible, especially in urban areas |
Difference Between TOEFL iBT and TOEFL ITP
Aspect | TOEFL iBT | TOEFL ITP |
Test Format | Internet-based | Paper-based |
Purpose | Primarily for university admissions abroad | Used for institutional assessment and placement |
Sections | Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing | Reading, Listening, Grammar (Structure and Written Expression) |
Scoring | Scored on a scale of 0 to 120 | Scored on a scale of 310 to 677 |
Test Environment | Official test centres or at home (TOEFL iBT Home Edition) | Conducted within institutions (schools, universities) |
Global Recognition | Widely recognized by universities worldwide | Recognized primarily by the administering institution |
Speaking Test | Included | Not included |
Latest Update on TOEFL Exam
The TOEFL English proficiency test is undergoing significant changes effective July 26, 2023. These changes includes adjustments in the test's duration, exam structure, and question types, all detailed on the ETS website. Notably, the examination's duration has been shortened from three hours to two hours, prompting candidates to adapt their preparation strategies accordingly.
Furthermore, modifications in the number and types of questions in each section have been introduced, necessitating thorough review by test-takers to familiarize themselves with the revised format. As such, individuals preparing for the TOEFL are strongly advised to stay updated on these changes to optimize their readiness for the examination.
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