Questions and answers about TOEFL-exam
Why should I take an TOEFL-exam?
US universities often require you to show an approved TOEFL result as a part of the admission procedure. The TOEFL-exam is also valid for studies in English in many other countries around the world.
What score do I need?
The TOEFL-exam has been given in three different versions with different scoring systems. Nowadays, almost all tests are what is known as IBT (Internet Based Test). At most, you can get 120 credits divided into 30 for each language skill (reading, writing, speaking and listening)).
The points required to be accepted vary between schools and programs. Once you have found a school, you can read more about this in their admission guidelines. For example, Lincoln University in Oakland requires 61 points on IBT to be admitted to undergraduate programs, 71 credits to be accepted for an MBA and 79 credits to be accepted for a Master of Science Degree.
Where can I take the TOEFL-exam?
There are TOEFL-exam centers all over the world. It is given on certain dates about 50 times a year. Here you will find test centers and test dates.
What is the cost of the TOEFL exam?
Fees vary by country. They are usually somewhere between $200 to $260.
How do I prepare for TOEFL?
Look at a sample test so you know what to expect. If you need to improve your English before taking the exam, I recommend taking an TOEFL-preparatory course in an English speaking country and then take the test right after the end of the course. On this page, you will find English language schools that provide TOEFL-exam courses.
How long is a TOEFL-exam valid?
For two years.
Where can I read more about TOEFL?
You will find a lot more information on TOEFL's official website.
What is the difference between TOEFL, IELTS and the Cambridge Exam?
Many universities accept TOEFL, IELTS and Cambridge English Qualifications with individual score requirements for each exam. IELTS and TOEFL are the most commonly accepted for University applications, but the test results are only valid for two years, so don’t take the exams before you know that you need them. If you want a qualification to show employers and others that you are good at English, then the Cambridge Exams are a good option. They are widely accepted around the world. They do not have an no official expiration date, however it is worth noting that some universities or employers will only accept a Cambridge Exam taken within 2-3 years because language skills are known to diminish over time. If you are looking for a job in the English-speaking world, you could also consider the TOEIC-Exam.
The exams test all four language skills (reading, writing, speaking and listening). Here are some other differences between the different tests:
- The TOEFL-exam is administered by the United States and is given in American English. It is the most useful exam if you want to study in the US or Canada. The test consists mostly of multiple choice questions but also a little writing and a short speech section. The test time is 4 hours.
- The IELTS-exam is jointly owned by the British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia and Cambridge Assessment English. It is an international test of English - IELTS recognises both British and American English spelling, grammar and choice of words and incorporates a mix of native speaker accents from Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the UK and US in the Listening component It is the most useful exam if you want to study in UK, Australia, and New Zealand. The test time is 2 hours and 45 minutes. The test consists of mixed tasks with small essays, short answers, fill in the blanks and a speech section.
- The Cambridge Exams are produced by Cambridge Assessment English, part of the University of Cambridge in England. The main difference between the exams and other tests is that they are level-based rather than multi-level. The exams consist of mixed tasks and they take about 3-4 hours to complete, depending on which you take. The speaking test is always face-to-face whether you choose the paper-based or computer-based version and the tests also include Use of English tasks to test your control of grammar and vocabulary. The exams cover all major varieties of English including British and American spellings so you can use whichever is most comfortable for you, just make sure you're consistent in the variety you use. The Listening component also includes a mix of native speaker accents.
If you are unsure about which degree to take, consider where you want to study and look at the school's admission requirements.
