For Test Takers: TOEFL® Internet-based Test (iBT)
Current section: Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions about the TOEFL® iBT
Registration
- How and when do I register for the test?
- Where and when can I take the test?
- How much does the TOEFL® iBT cost?
- What if the TOEFL iBT is not offered in my location?
Test Preparation
Scores and Score Reports
- How do I get my scores?
- How do I order additional score reports?
- How long are scores valid?
- Will institutions accept previous scores?
Test Delivery
- How is the TOEFL iBT given?
- What is the TOEFL iBT?
- Can I take only 1 section of the test?
- Which computer keyboard is used for the TOEFL iBT?
Registration
How and when do I register for the test?
Online registration is the easiest method. Registration is available 3-4 months before the test date. Register early as seats fill up quickly. You can also register by mail or by phone.
Where and when can I take the TOEFL iBT?
See a list of locations and dates.
How much does the TOEFL iBT cost?
Select a country for fee information.
What if the TOEFL iBT is not offered in my location?
ETS offers the TOEFL Paper-based Test in areas where the TOEFL iBT is not available.
Test Preparation
How can I prepare and practice for the Internet-based test?
ETS offers a variety of preparation and practice materials to help you do well on the TOEFL iBT.
Scores and Score Reports
Scores are posted online usually within 15 days after the test date, then mailed to the institutions you selected.
Included with your registration fees are:
- 1 score report for you
- up to 4 official score reports that ETS will send directly to the institutions or agencies you select when you register
How do I order additional score reports?
The process is easy. For a small fee, you can send score reports to as many institutions as you choose.
See Send Additional Score Reports
ETS will report scores for 2 years after the test date.
Will institutions accept scores from previous tests?
Check with each institution or agency directly.
Test Delivery
The test is given on fixed dates, 30-40 times a year, at secure Internet-based test centers. The ETS testing network is the largest in the world. See a list of locations and dates.
What is the TOEFL Internet-based test?
The test is given in English, has 4 sections on reading, listening, speaking and writing and takes about 4½ hours.
| Section | Time Limit | No. of Questions |
|---|---|---|
| Reading | 60-100 minutes | 36-70 |
| Listening | 60-90 minutes | 34-51 |
| Break | 10 minutes | — |
| Speaking | 20 minutes | 6 tasks |
| Writing | 50 minutes | 2 tasks |
Can I take only 1 section of the test?
No. The entire test must be taken to receive a score. Read more on how the test is scored.
Which computer keyboard is used for the TOEFL iBT?
QWERTY, the most common English-language keyboard is used. It takes its name from the first 6 letters at the top of the keyboard. Test takers should practice on a QWERTY keyboard before taking the TOEFL iBT.
