What is the TOEFL?
The TOEFL iBT is an English proficiency test made by ETS, accepted by universities in the US, Canada, the UK, Australia and many other countries. Since 21 January 2026, Reading and Listening are adaptive, the question types are updated, and scores are reported on a 1–6 scale aligned with the CEFR. For a two-year transition period, score reports also show a comparable 0–120 score.
Who takes it
- Non-native English speakers applying to universities abroad
- Applicants to graduate programs that require English proof
- Professionals who need English certification
Official information: ETS website.
TOEFL format at a glance
| Section | Time | Questions | What it tests |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reading | See ETS | Adaptive | Understanding academic and everyday texts |
| Listening | See ETS | Adaptive | Lectures, conversations and announcements |
| Writing | See ETS | Updated tasks | Writing for academic and everyday purposes |
| Speaking | See ETS | Updated tasks | Speaking clearly and responding to prompts |
How TOEFL scoring works
Section and overall scores run from 1 to 6 in half bands, aligned with CEFR levels.
A 5 corresponds to C1 and a 6 to C2. For two years after January 2026, reports also include a comparable 0–120 overall score.
How to prepare for the TOEFL
Prepare for the 2026 format
Older practice books describe a different test. Make sure your materials cover the updated tasks and adaptive sections.
Know your target band
Find the CEFR level or score your university asks for, then set a section-by-section target.
Speak every day
Speaking improves with daily timed practice and feedback, not just reading about strategy.
Read and listen to academic English
Lectures, podcasts and university articles build the skills Reading and Listening test.
A sample TOEFL study plan
Every plan we build starts from your diagnostic. This is a typical shape for a student starting from a solid base.
- Weeks 1–2Diagnostic and the updated question types
- Weeks 3–5Daily speaking and writing practice with feedback
- Weeks 6–8Adaptive practice tests and test-day routine
How we coach the TOEFL
A plan for you
We start from your diagnostic, target score and test date, and plan your hours around them.
Live online sessions
Sessions focus on the TOEFL skills you need most, with practice and review.
Practice that counts
Timed practice and mistake reviews show exactly what to fix next.
Your rate depends on the plan you choose.
TOEFL FAQs
What changed in the TOEFL iBT in 2026?
From 21 January 2026, Reading and Listening became multistage adaptive, the task types were updated, and scores moved to a 1–6 scale aligned with the CEFR.
Is the 0–120 TOEFL score still reported?
Yes, for a two-year transition period. Score reports show the 1–6 scores and a comparable 0–120 overall score.
How is the overall TOEFL score calculated?
The overall score is the average of the four section scores, rounded to the nearest half band.
Can I take the TOEFL at home?
Yes. The TOEFL iBT Home Edition is taken on your computer at home with a live human proctor.
TOEFL or IELTS: which should I take?
Check which tests your universities accept. If both are accepted, choose the format that suits you better — our diagnostic can help.
TOEFL guides
TOEFL's New 1–6 Score Scale, Explained
From 21 January 2026, TOEFL scores use a 1–6 scale aligned with the CEFR. Here's what that means.
How to Build a 10-Week GRE Study Plan
Ten weeks is enough for most students to prepare well for the GRE, if each week has a clear job.
Digital SAT Strategy: What Adaptive Modules Mean for You
The digital SAT adapts between modules. Understanding that one fact changes how you should prepare.