TOEFL Testing
The Educational Testing Service, a nonprofit organization commonly referred to as "ETS," offers more than 20 different tests, including the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). According to the ETS website, more than 7,000 institutions in 130 different countries use TOEFL scores in their admissions processes. Learn more about the purpose, format and content of the TOEFL before you sign up to take it.
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Purpose
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TOEFL measures the ability of non-native English speakers to communicate and read in English at the college or university level. The test covers reading, listening, speaking and writing. ETS has conducted extensive research to produce the best possible test for measuring these skills. The organization has published more than 140 reports about this research. Many English-language colleges and universities require applicants for whom English is a second language to submit TOEFL scores. Based on these scores, the school can accept applicants without conditions or accept applicants under the condition that they take certain English language courses.
Format
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ETS offers the TOEFL in two formats: Internet-based and paper-based. Both tests include reading, listening, speaking and writing sections. The Internet-based test requires four hours to complete, and the paper-based test requires three hours to complete. Test-takers complete either test in one day.
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Scores
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ETS scores the TOEFL tests with a combination of automated systems and objective human graders. More than one human grader looks at each individual test, ensuring fair and unbiased scoring. Graders cannot see the test-taker's name or personal information.
Testing Logistics
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ETS offers TOEFL testing at more than 4,500 locations in 165 different countries on dates spread throughout the year. Test-takers must register for the test ahead of time to reserve a seat. Register online and pay with a credit or debit card. Bring valid identification, your admission ticket, a photo file record and plenty of pencils to the test. Test-takers can take the TOEFL a second or third time if they want to try to achieve higher scores.
Preparation
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ETS offers several online practice programs and practice tests to help students prepare for the TOEFL. Organizations such as The Princeton Review and Kaplan Test Prep also offer organized TOEFL preparation classes.
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