Master the TOEFL with this A-Z guide- TOEFL Exam Online

The TOEFL exam, or Test of English as a Foreign Language, is an important step for non-native English speakers looking to study, work, or live in English-speaking countries. A high TOEFL score can open many doors, whether your goal is to study abroad, find a job, or eventually become an immigrant.

Welcome to our thorough A-Z guide for passing the online TOEFL exam. This guide aims to provide you with all the information you require regarding the TOEFL, including an overview of its format, practical preparation techniques, and advice on how to do well in each segment.

Master the TOEFL with this A-Z guide!

TOEFL Exam Online

The TOEFL exam assesses your ability to understand and use English at the university level. It evaluates how well you can combine your reading, listening, speaking, and writing skills to perform academic tasks. The test is available in two formats: the TOEFL iBT (Internet-based Test) and the TOEFL PBT (Paper-based Test). However, the TOEFL iBT is more commonly used and is available online.

TOEFL Exam Structure

The TOEFL iBT consists of four sections:

  • Reading: This section measures your ability to read and understand academic texts. It includes 3-4 passages with 10 questions each, testing your comprehension and inference skills.
  • Listening: This section assesses your ability to understand spoken English in academic settings. It includes 3-4 lectures and 2-3 conversations, with multiple-choice questions based on these audio clips.
  • Speaking: This section evaluates your spoken English skills through six tasks. These tasks involve expressing an opinion on a familiar topic, as well as responding to reading and listening materials.
  • Writing: This section measures your ability to write in English in an academic setting. It includes two tasks: an integrated task (based on what you read and listen to) and an independent task (supporting an opinion on a topic).

Taking the TOEFL Exam Online

The TOEFL iBT can be taken online through the TOEFL Home Edition, which provides the same content, format, and on-screen experience as the test center version. To take the TOEFL exam online, you need to ensure you have the following:

  • A quiet, private space where you won’t be interrupted.
  • A computer with a camera, microphone, and speakers (headsets are not allowed).
  • A reliable internet connection.
  • The ETS Test Browser installed on your computer.
  • On the test day, a human proctor will monitor you via a live video feed to ensure test security and integrity. You will need to show your ID and perform a room scan before starting the exam.

Why Take the TOEFL Exam Online?

Taking the TOEFL exam online offers several benefits:

  • Convenience: You can take the test from home without the need to travel to a test center.
  • Flexibility: More test dates are available, allowing you to choose a time that best fits your schedule.
  • Comfort: Familiar surroundings can help reduce test anxiety and improve performance.

How to Register for the TOEFL Online Exam?

Registering for the TOEFL exam online is a straightforward process that you can complete in a few easy steps. Here’s a detailed guide to help you through the registration process:

Step-by-Step Registration Process

1. Create an ETS Account

To register for the TOEFL exam online, you first need to create an account on the official ETS website. Follow these steps:

  • Visit the ETS TOEFL website.
  • Click on “Sign In” and then “Create an Account.”
  • Fill in your personal information, including your name, date of birth, and email address.
  • Create a username and password for your account.
  • Review and agree to the terms and conditions, then submit your information.

2. Log In to Your ETS Account

  • Once your account is created, log in using your username and password.
  • Navigate to the “My TOEFL” page to start the registration process.

3. Select a Test Date and Location

  • Click on “Register/Find Test Centers, Dates” to view available test dates and locations.
  • For the TOEFL iBT Home Edition, choose the “Home Edition” option during the test selection process.
  • Browse the available dates and times and select the one that best fits your schedule.

4. Fill in Your Profile Information

  • Complete any additional profile information required by ETS, such as your address and identification details.
  • Ensure that your name matches the ID you will use on the test day.

5. Choose Your Score Recipients

  • You can send your scores to up to four institutions for free. Search for and select the universities or organizations that should receive your scores.
  • Additional score reports can be ordered for a fee.

6. Review and Confirm Your Order

  • Carefully review all the details of your registration, including your selected test date and location, profile information, and score recipients.
  • Confirm that all information is accurate to avoid any issues on test day.

7. Make Payment

  • Proceed to the payment section to pay the registration fee. Accepted payment methods include credit/debit cards, electronic checks, PayPal, and vouchers.
  • The registration fee varies by location, so check the specific fee for your region.

8. Receive Confirmation

  • After payment, you will receive a confirmation email with your test date, time, and location (or instructions for the Home Edition).
  • Make sure to print or save this confirmation for your records.

All the Equipment You Need for the At-Home Test for TOEFL Exam Online

Taking the TOEFL iBT Home Edition requires specific equipment to ensure a smooth testing experience. Here’s a concise list of everything you need:

1. Computer

  • Type: Desktop or laptop (no tablets or mobile devices).
  • Operating System: Windows 10 or 8, or macOS X 10.13 or higher.

2. Browser

  • ETS Test Browser: Download and install the ETS Test Browser from the official TOEFL website.

3. Internet Connection

  • Speed: A stable and reliable internet connection with a minimum download speed of 1 Mbps.
  • Connection: Wired connection is recommended for stability.

4. Camera

  • Type: Built-in or external webcam.
  • Placement: Position the camera to show a clear view of your face and workspace.

5. Microphone

  • Type: Built-in or external microphone (no headsets or earphones).

6. Speakers

  • Type: Built-in or external speakers (no headsets or earphones).

7. ID

  • Type: A valid, acceptable ID that matches the name used for registration.

8. Workspace

  • Environment: Quiet, private room with no interruptions.
  • Desk: Clear of all unauthorized materials and electronic devices.

TOEFL iBT Home Edition Price

The cost of taking the TOEFL iBT Home Edition varies depending on your location. As of 2024, the typical price range is between $180 and $250 USD. Here’s a breakdown of what you can generally expect:

  • United States: Approximately $235 USD
  • Europe: Approximately $250 USD
  • Asia: Approximately $200 to $240 USD
  • Other Regions: Prices vary but generally fall within the $180 to $250 USD range

Additional Costs

  • Rescheduling Fee: $60 USD
  • Additional Score Reports: $20 USD per report
  • Speaking or Writing Section Review: $80 USD per section
  • Combined Review (Speaking and Writing): $160 USD

What’s New in TOEFL iBT 2023?

The TOEFL iBT has undergone several updates in 2023 to improve the testing experience and better assess the English language proficiency of candidates. Here are the major changes:

1. Shortened Test Duration

  • Total Time: The overall test duration has been reduced from around 3 hours to approximately 2 hours.
  • Sections Affected: The Reading and Listening sections have been streamlined, with fewer questions, but the Speaking and Writing sections remain unchanged.

2. Enhanced Test Design

  • More Efficient Layout: The test interface has been redesigned for better user experience, making it easier to navigate between sections and questions.
  • Updated Question Types: Some question formats have been revised for clarity and relevance, providing a more accurate measure of language skills.

3. Improved Score Reporting

  • Faster Results: Test-takers now receive their scores more quickly. Most scores are available within 4-6 days after the test date.
  • MyBest™ Scores: Continued use of MyBest™ scores, which combine your best scores for each section from all valid tests within the last two years, giving you the best possible overall score.

4. Expanded Availability

  • Increased Test Dates: More test dates have been added, providing greater flexibility for test-takers.
  • Broader Access: The TOEFL iBT Home Edition continues to be available, allowing candidates to take the test remotely with the same level of security and validity as the test center version.

5. Enhanced Security Measures

  • Advanced Proctoring: Improved remote proctoring technology to ensure the integrity of the TOEFL iBT Home Edition.
  • Stricter ID Verification: Enhanced identification verification processes to prevent fraud and ensure that the test-taker’s identity is verified.

Score Transparency and Reporting of TOEFL Exam Online

The TOEFL iBT (Internet-based Test) provides a transparent scoring process and a straightforward reporting system to help you and institutions understand your English proficiency level. Here’s how it works:

Score Breakdown

Section Scoring Criteria Score Range
Reading Number of correct answers converted to scaled score 0 – 30
Listening Number of correct answers converted to scaled score 0 – 30
Speaking Clear speech, coherence, grammar, vocabulary 0 – 30
Writing Idea development, grammar, vocabulary, organization 0 – 30
Total Score Sum of section scores 0 – 120

Score Reporting

Aspect Details
Receiving Your Scores Online access typically within 4-6 days
Email notification when scores are available
Score Reports Include section scores and total score
MyBest™ scores included if applicable
Score Validity Scores valid for two years from test date
Requesting Additional Online request through ETS account
Score Reports Fee: $20 USD per additional report

How to Ace the Online TOEFL Exam?

Acing the online TOEFL exam requires thorough preparation, effective strategies, and familiarity with the test format. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you succeed:

  • Know the Format: Understand each section’s structure, timing, and question types.
  • Practice Regularly: Use official TOEFL materials to simulate the exam experience and improve language skills.
  • Develop Strategies: Learn effective test-taking strategies for each section and practice time management.
  • Utilize Resources: Take advantage of TOEFL preparation materials, courses, and study groups.
  • Simulate Test Conditions: Practice under realistic conditions, including using the ETS Test Browser.
  • Review and Analyze: Identify weaknesses and focus on improvement through targeted practice.
  • Manage Anxiety: Use relaxation techniques to stay calm and confident during the exam.
  • Take Care of Yourself: Prioritize self-care for optimal performance, including sleep, nutrition, and stress management.

Conclusion

In conclusion, with the thorough support offered in this A-Z guide, you can master the online TOEFL exam. You can pass every component of the test with confidence if you know how it is structured, practice a lot, and use smart study techniques. Make use of the number of tools at your disposal, including study groups, internet forums, and official TOEFL materials, to improve your readiness and overcome any obstacles. Throughout your trip, keep your concentration, have an optimistic outlook, and give self-care priority. You can succeed on the TOEFL and open up a world of potential for academic and professional achievement if you are determined and persistent. I wish you well as you take the TOEFL!

Also Check:

FAQs on Master the TOEFL with this A-Z guide!

What is the TOEFL iBT Home Edition?

The TOEFL iBT Home Edition allows you to take the exam from home, with the same content and format as the test center version.

How long is the TOEFL iBT Home Edition?

The test duration is approximately 2 hours, with each section shortened to accommodate the online format.

Can I use a tablet or mobile device for the TOEFL iBT Home Edition?

No, you must use a desktop or laptop computer that meets the technical requirements.

How do I register for the TOEFL iBT Home Edition?

Register online through the official ETS website, select “Home Edition” as the test format, choose your test date, and complete the registration process.

When will I receive my TOEFL iBT Home Edition scores?

Scores are typically available online within 4-6 days after the test date, with email notification sent when scores are ready.



Contact Us