1. Start with your goals
Before you consider test formats, look at test questions, or build a study plan, you need to ask yourself: What are your goals?
If you’re looking to study at university, it's important to note that different institutions accept different tests. If your goal is to study at a university in the U.S., Canada, Europe, or Asia, the TOEFL iBT is one of the most widely accepted assessments across top institutions.
Taking the TOEFL iBT provides you with a practical advantage if you’re applying to multiple countries or if you haven’t yet chosen your program. That said, before applying, always check the exact requirements of your:
- Target universities
- Program
- Countries visa requirements
2. Understand your test preferences
Every English test has its own structure. Some use face-to-face speaking interviews, while others use computer-based speaking tasks.
Some measure integrated skills such as reading and speaking together, while others separate your test into distinct sections.
If you prefer computer-based testing or feel more comfortable speaking into a microphone, TOEFL’s format could be a strong match. Former test takers report this can reduce performance anxiety while creating a consistent, predictable speaking environment.
3. Think about the test content
Different English proficiency exams test language skills in their own ways. Some tests focus on general communication abilities, while others combine academic English with modern topics relevant to modern university life.
The updated TOEFL iBT (coming January 21st, 2026) will combine traditional content with modern, equitable topics to better reflect how students use English in real academic settings, like group discussions and project work.
If you’re preparing for an academic setting such as an undergraduate or graduate degree, this learning style can give you a huge advantage, preparing you with the skills you’ll use in lectures, seminars, and presentations.
4. Compare test structure, duration, and scoring
By the time you’re applying for university you’ll understand how you perform in test environments.
- Do you prefer longer or shorter tests?
- Do you prefer testing in an exam hall or at home?
- Do you want a test that adapts to your level as you complete it?
- Do you want the test to contain fewer in-depth tasks or multiple short ones?
If you prefer a test that’s tailored to you, TOEFL iBT is introducing an adaptive score design that tailors the Reading and Listening sections based on how you perform, creating a more efficient experience.
From January 21st, TOEFL iBT will also introduce an intuitive score scale of 1-6. This score will directly align with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), making your score easy to understand.
5. Look at sample questions
One of the best ways to understand what test is for you is to try some tests. Spend a few hours trying out different English proficiency exams to see how each feel. Most English tests will offer:
- Sample questions
- Free practice tests
- Video walkthroughs
- Familiarization tools
Simply spend 30 minutes with each test you’re considering, paying attention to how you feel with:
- The reading passages
- The listening questions
- The speaking prompts
- The writing tasks
If you’re looking to see if TOEFL is for you, you can find study tools here:
TOEFL Study Tools
6. Consider score delivery times
This point is often overlooked, but it’s extremely important. If you’re working with a specific deadline (either for admissions or scholarships) you need to consider:
- Score delivery times
- Retake policies
- A testing schedule
Make sure you give yourself enough time to receive your score before admissions, giving yourself enough time for retakes should they be required.
7. Choose based on research, not guesswork
While there are multiple English tests available, the best one for you should:
- Be accepted by your chosen programs
- Match your preferred testing style
- Measure the skills you want to showcase
- Help you feel confident going into university
For thousands of students, TOEFL meets these requirements, being accepted in over 160 countries by more than 13,000 institutions. That’s why over 40 million test takers have chosen TOEFL to prepare them for higher education and what comes next.
