TOEFL -- Test of English as a Foreign Language

The TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) evaluates the ability of non-native speakers of English to use standard American English in an academic context. It is therefore used primarily by universities and colleges in the US as a requirement for admission. However, many government and licensing agencies, exchange and scholarship programs also use the TOEFL to evaluate English proficiency.

Who administers the TOEFL?

The TOEFL is run by Educational Testing Service (ETS).

Where can my students take the TOEFL?

The TOEFL can be taken in 180 countries, and is recognised by over 6000 colleges and universities in 110 countries.

How long are TOEFL scores valid?

Scores are valid for two years from the date of the test.

Formats

The TOEFL was originally offered in paper-based and later computer-based format. Both these are now being replaced by the internet-based test (iBT). The iBT was introduced in the US and several other countries in September 2005, and phased in around the world in 2006 and beyond. During this phase-in process the paper-based test (PBT) and, in some cases, the computer-based test (CBT) are still offered in locations where the iBT is not yet available.

Find out more about the different formats

You can read a summary of the internet based test (iBT), the computer based test (CBT) and the paper based test (PBT). Or, visit the ETS website.

TOEFL and TOEIC

TOEFL evaluates English proficiency for academic study and is used primarily by higher education institutions as an admission requirement or to assess progress. The purpose of the TOEIC (Test of English for International Communication), on the other hand, is to evaluate English proficiency for use in the workplace, and so is primarily used by businesses to make decisions about recruiting, promoting or training employees. You can read more about the TOEIC here.