Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about the TOEFL test
All important information clearly explained
General information about TOEFL
The TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is an internationally recognized English test that measures the language proficiency of non-native speakers. It is often used as proof of language proficiency for admission to universities and colleges, as well as for professional purposes, especially in English-speaking countries.
The TOEFL assesses English language skills at different proficiency levels, generally from intermediate to very advanced. The exact CEFR level is determined by the score achieved.
The TOEFL test covers CEFR levels B1 to C2. Lower scores correspond roughly to level B1 or B2, i.e., solid to good intermediate skills. Higher scores, usually above 100 points, indicate an advanced level between C1 and C2, which corresponds to near-native proficiency.
Both tests serve to demonstrate English language proficiency, but differ in structure and focus.
TOEFL is more academically oriented, is computer-based, and is particularly widespread in North America.
IELTS offers an academic and a general version, includes a personal interview, and is particularly widespread in the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand.
TOEFL is more academically oriented, is computer-based, and is particularly widespread in North America.
IELTS offers an academic and a general version, includes a personal interview, and is particularly widespread in the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand.
Which test is more suitable depends on your personal goals.
TOEFL is particularly suitable for academic purposes and university applications, especially in the US and Canada, and the results are valid for two years.
Cambridge certificates such as FCE, CAE, or CPE are valid indefinitely and are well suited as long-term proof of English language proficiency, especially in Europe.
TOEFL is particularly suitable for academic purposes and university applications, especially in the US and Canada, and the results are valid for two years.
Cambridge certificates such as FCE, CAE, or CPE are valid indefinitely and are well suited as long-term proof of English language proficiency, especially in Europe.
There are basically two versions of the TOEFL test.
The TOEFL iBT is the most commonly taken version. It is conducted online and tests reading, listening, speaking, and writing skills.
The TOEFL Essentials is a shorter, adaptive online test that assesses basic to intermediate English skills.
The TOEFL iBT is the most commonly taken version. It is conducted online and tests reading, listening, speaking, and writing skills.
The TOEFL Essentials is a shorter, adaptive online test that assesses basic to intermediate English skills.
The TOEFL test is recognized by more than 11,000 universities, colleges, and organizations in over 150 countries worldwide. It is particularly common for applications to educational institutions in the US, Canada, Europe, and Australia.
Registration and implementation
The fees for the TOEFL test vary depending on the country and test center. In Germany, the costs currently range between €250 and €270. The current prices can be found on the official ETS website.
The TOEFL is offered at authorized test centers worldwide. You can find an overview of available locations and dates on the official ETS website.
Yes, the TOEFL iBT Home Edition can be taken from home. The test is taken online and monitored via webcam. A stable internet connection, a computer with a camera, and a quiet and undisturbed environment are required.
Registration takes place online via the official ETS website. There you select your desired test date, test center, or Home Edition, enter your personal data, and pay the exam fee. Once you have completed the registration process, you will receive a confirmation email.
A valid ID document is required to participate in the test, usually a passport or identity card. The document must contain a photo, full name, and signature, and must match the ID provided during registration exactly.
Preparing for the TOEFL
The preparation time required depends on your current language level and the desired result. It is advisable to take a trial test at an early stage in order to realistically assess your individual learning needs.
The following materials are particularly recommended for preparation.
Official preparation materials from ETS, such as the "Official Guide to the TOEFL Test."
Special preparation courses, such as TOEFL preparation courses from ILS.
TOEFL practice tests, such as the online practice tests from ETS.
Reference books and workbooks such as Barron's TOEFL or Cambridge Preparation.
Apps and podcasts for training listening comprehension and general language skills.
Official preparation materials from ETS, such as the "Official Guide to the TOEFL Test."
Special preparation courses, such as TOEFL preparation courses from ILS.
TOEFL practice tests, such as the online practice tests from ETS.
Reference books and workbooks such as Barron's TOEFL or Cambridge Preparation.
Apps and podcasts for training listening comprehension and general language skills.
Results and evaluation
TOEFL iBT results are usually available online about six days after the test date. You will be notified by email as soon as the results are available. The official score report sent by mail usually takes seven to ten days within the US and about four to six weeks internationally.
A TOEFL score is valid for two years from the test date. After this period, it loses its official recognition and must be replaced by a new test if required.
What score is considered good depends on the respective goal.
Universities in the US and Canada often require a minimum of 80 to 100 points, depending on the institution and degree program.
Top universities such as Ivy League institutions often require 100 points or more.
European universities often require 80 to 90 points.
As a guide:
80 to 90 points correspond to an average to good level in the B2 range.
90 to 100 points represent a good to very good level between B2 and C1.
Over 100 points indicate a very high level between C1 and C2.
Universities in the US and Canada often require a minimum of 80 to 100 points, depending on the institution and degree program.
Top universities such as Ivy League institutions often require 100 points or more.
European universities often require 80 to 90 points.
As a guide:
80 to 90 points correspond to an average to good level in the B2 range.
90 to 100 points represent a good to very good level between B2 and C1.
Over 100 points indicate a very high level between C1 and C2.
The TOEFL test can be retaken as often as desired. However, there must be at least three days between two tests. The regular test fees apply for each retake.
The TOEFL iBT consists of four sections, each of which is scored out of a maximum of 30 points.
Reading is scored between 0 and 30 points.
Listening is also scored between 0 and 30 points.
Speaking is scored between 0 and 30 points.
Writing is also scored out of a maximum of 30 points.
The total score is calculated from the sum of all four areas and amounts to a maximum of 120 points.
Reading is scored between 0 and 30 points.
Listening is also scored between 0 and 30 points.
Speaking is scored between 0 and 30 points.
Writing is also scored out of a maximum of 30 points.
The total score is calculated from the sum of all four areas and amounts to a maximum of 120 points.
When you register, you can select up to four institutions to which your results will be sent free of charge. Additional recipients can be added later via your ETS account for an additional fee. Results are sent electronically directly by ETS.
Certificates and recognition
The TOEFL test is recognized by over 11,000 institutions in more than 160 countries worldwide. These include universities and colleges, particularly in the US, Canada, Australia, the UK, and Europe, as well as immigration authorities for certain visa applications, international companies, and numerous scholarship programs.
TOEFL is more commonly preferred by universities in the US and Canada.
IELTS is often required by institutions in the UK, Australia, and New Zealand.
However, both tests are generally accepted by most international universities and organizations. It is advisable to carefully check the requirements of the respective target institution.
IELTS is often required by institutions in the UK, Australia, and New Zealand.
However, both tests are generally accepted by most international universities and organizations. It is advisable to carefully check the requirements of the respective target institution.
Yes, the TOEFL test is recognized by many universities and organizations in Europe. It is often required as proof of language proficiency, especially for English-language degree programs, for example in Germany, the Netherlands, and Sweden.
The TOEFL is accepted by numerous countries for visa applications. These include Australia for student, work, and migration visas, New Zealand for certain visa categories, and the United States for student visas such as F-1 or J-1.
In addition to TOEFL, there are other internationally recognized English tests available.
IELTS is particularly popular in the UK and Australia.
Cambridge English tests such as C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency are valid for life.
PTE Academic is also widely accepted for study purposes.
IELTS is particularly popular in the UK and Australia.
Cambridge English tests such as C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency are valid for life.
PTE Academic is also widely accepted for study purposes.
