The TOEFL, or Test of English as a Foreign Language, is a widely recognized and accepted English language proficiency test. It assesses the ability of non-native English speakers to understand and use English at the university level. The TOEFL test is used for various purposes, including university admissions, employment, and visa applications. Here is a complete description of the TOEFL test:
Test Sections:
Reading Section (60-80 minutes): This section consists of 36-56 questions that assess your ability to understand and analyze written passages. You’ll need to answer questions based on the information in these passages.
Listening Section (60-90 minutes): This section includes 34-51 questions designed to evaluate your listening comprehension skills. You’ll listen to lectures, conversations, and discussions, and then answer questions related to what you’ve heard.
Speaking Section (20 minutes): The speaking section assesses your ability to express your thoughts and ideas in English. It includes four tasks: reading aloud, listening and speaking, speaking based on reading and listening, and speaking based on personal experience.
Writing Section (50 minutes): In this section, you’ll complete two writing tasks. The first task requires you to read a passage, listen to a lecture or conversation, and then write a response that synthesizes information from both sources. The second task involves writing an essay based on your own knowledge and experiences.
Scoring: Each section of the TOEFL is scored separately. The scores for the Reading and Listening sections range from 0 to 30, in one-point increments. The Speaking and Writing sections are scored from 0 to 4 points and then converted to a scaled score of 0 to 30. The total TOEFL score is the sum of these four section scores, with a maximum total score of 120.
Test Format:
The TOEFL is administered as a computer-based test (CBT) in most regions. However, in some areas with limited internet access, it may be administered as a paper-based test (PBT).
The test is typically taken at designated test centers, but it is also offered as a home edition for test-takers who meet the technical and security requirements.
Registration and Fees:
To register for the TOEFL, you need to create an account on the official TOEFL website. The registration fee varies by location but is generally around $200-$250 (as of my last knowledge update in September 2021).
Score Validity:
TOEFL scores are valid for two years from the test date. After this period, the scores expire and are no longer considered official.
Acceptance:
TOEFL scores are widely accepted by universities, colleges, and other institutions around the world as proof of English language proficiency. Many academic programs and English-speaking countries require TOEFL scores as part of their admissions process.