Frequently Asked Questions
Is it necessary to be familiar with
computers to take the test?
Yes. Taking a test on computer is very different from taking
one on paper, and you need to be prepared. Even people who work
with computers every day could have difficulties taking a test on
computer.
Is the format of the computer-based
TOEFL* different from the format of the paper-based
version?
Yes. A major difference is that the computer-based TOEFL
includes a required essay. In addition, there are several new
types of listening comprehension and reading comprehension
questions on the CBT which are not on the paper-based test.
What else is different on the
computer TOEFL?
On the paper-based test, score is determined by the total
number of correct answers. On the Listening Comprehension and
Structure sections of the CBT, the difficulty level of the
questions answered correctly is used to determine score.
What are some of the benefits to
taking the TOEFL on computer?
With computer testing, you can register for a day and time
that is convenient for you. You also receive your scores much
faster-an estimated score appears right after the test is
completed, and the official score is available two weeks
later.
Are there any disadvantages to
taking the TOEFL on computer?
The computer-based test only shows you one question at a time,
so you are not able to skip around and answer easy questions
first. Once you click on the "Confirm Answer" button, you are not
able to go back and change an answer as you can on the
paper-based test.
Understanding Your Score
Right after you finish the computer-based TOEFL, you'll have
the option of either viewing your scores on the computer screen
where you've taken the test or canceling your test scores. Once
you view your scores, they become "official" and you cannot
cancel them. If you cancel your scores, you'll have to wait until
the next calendar month to retake the TOEFL.
What about my essay
scores?
Good question. You are able to see your final scores for the
Listening and Reading sections. But the Structure & Written
Expression section score and total TOEFL score you see right
after the test will only be in score ranges, because the computer
can not evaluate your essay. These ranges cover the possible
final Structure & Written Expression and overall TOEFL scores
you could get, depending on how good (or bad) your essay is.
How is the test scored?
The essay written in the Writing section will be graded by two
readers on a scale ranging from 0 to 6. The essay score is then
combined with the score for the Structure section. You will then
receive two types of scores for the CBT. A scaled score between 0
and 30 will be given for the Listening Comprehension, Structure,
and Reading Comprehension sections. These three scores are then
combined and translated into a total score that ranges between 0
and 300.
You get your essay scores and final scores on a printed score
report that will be mailed to you about two weeks after the
test.
What is a good score?
There is no "passing" or "failing" score on the TOEFL. The test
only measures your English language proficiency. Individual
colleges and universities set their own TOEFL score standards for
admission. Scores can range from a low of 133 to a high of 267 or
more. A score of 300 is considered perfect.
What does my TOEFL score
mean?
Your TOEFL score measures your English proficiency level. The
chart below shows what various scores mean.
 |
TOEFL CBT Scores and Proficiency |
 |
 |
|
Score |
Proficiency
Level |
Description |
|
|
|
|
|
83 |
Elementary |
basic, simple conversations |
|
|
133 |
Intermediate |
-initiates conversation
-emerging grammar skills
-can read simple texts |
|
|
213 |
Working |
meet routine social demands |
|
|
267 |
Advanced |
approaching native proficiency |
|
How long are TOEFL scores
valid?
ETS keeps TOEFL scores on file for two years, although university
admissions officers may require or prefer a recent exam taken
within the last six months to a year. After two years, you won't
be able to order official score reports for a test from ETS.
Test Registration
I want to take the exam in the USA
or Canada
If you have a credit card, you can schedule an appointment to
take the TOEFL CBT by telephone:
- If you are already in the USA or Canada, call
1-800-468-6335.
- If you are outside the USA or Canada, call
1-443-751-4862.
When you call, you will be given a confirmation number, your
test date, and the location of the test center. You will be
charged a fee of $130 USD to take the exam.
If you do not have a credit card, you can register by mail by
using the CBT Voucher Request form in the Information
Bulletin. You can send for a copy of the Information
Bulletin at www.toefl.org.
I want to take the exam outside the
USA or Canada
To take the test outside the USA or Canada, you must schedule an
appointment with your "Regional Registration Center." You can
view a list of the Regional Registration Centers at www.toefl.org.
When you register, you will be given a confirmation number, your
test date, and the location of the test center. You will be
charged a fee of $130 USD to take the exam.
