Test of English as a Foreign Language

Test of English as a Foreign Language
Logo used since 2024
AcronymTOEFL
TypeInternet-based or paper-based standardized test.
AdministratorEducational Testing Service
Skills testedReading, listening, speaking and writing of the English language.
PurposeTo assess the English language proficiency of non-native English speakers.
Year started1964 (1964)
Duration
  • Internet-based test (iBT): 2 hours.
  • Paper-delivered test: 2 hours 25 minutes.
Score rangeiBT:
0 to 30 (in 1-point increments) on each of the 4 sections. So a total of 0 to 120.
PBT:
Reading: 0 to 30, listening: 0 to 30, Writing: 0 to 30. No overall score.
Score validity2 years
OfferediBT: More than 50 times a year.
Restrictions on attemptsiBT: Can be taken only once in any 3-day period.
Regions4,500 test centers in over 190 countries and territories.
LanguagesEnglish
Annual number of test takers2.3 million
PrerequisitesNo official prerequisite. Intended for non-native English speakers.
FeeiBT: US$ 185 and up, depending on the country.
Used byMore than 11,000 colleges, agencies, and other institutions in over 150 countries.
Websiteets.org/toefl

Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL /ˈtfəl/ TOH-fəl) is a standardized test to measure the English language ability of non-native speakers wishing to enroll in English-speaking universities. The test is accepted by more than 11,000 universities and other institutions in over 190 countries and territories. TOEFL is one of several major English-language tests worldwide, including IELTS, Pearson Test of English (PTE), Duolingo English Test, Cambridge Assessment English, and Trinity College London exams.

TOEFL is a trademark of the Educational Testing Service (ETS), a private non-profit organization, which designs and administers the tests. ETS issues official score reports which are sent independently to institutions and are valid for two years following the test.