TOEFL Home Edition vs Test Center: Which option is best for you?

The TOEFL iBT® is one of the most widely accepted English proficiency tests in the world. It’s been taken by over 40 million students and is offered in over 200 countries. In 2026, test takers can choose between two formats: the TOEFL Home Edition and the TOEFL Test Center version.

The content, scoring, and validity of each test is the same, though the test experience is different. Before booking your test, it’s important to understand these differences, ensuring that the option you choose aligns with your personality and test taking style.

With this in mind, here’s a breakdown of both options and the personality types they best cater to.

The TOEFL Home Edition allows you to take the exam from home (or another private location) using your own computer. The test is monitored online by a live human proctor via your webcam and microphone.

Before your test begins, you’ll complete a strict security check with your proctor. Your proctor will ask you to show your ID, complete a room inspection, and ensure there are no banned items on your desk.

You can find our official TOEFL iBT® Home Edition at Home Checklist here.

During your Home Edition test you’ll complete all four sections: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing, just as you would in a test center. However, during the listening section you’ll speak into your laptop or computer alone, instead of a microphone in a room with other test takers.

One of the biggest advantages of the TOEFL Home Edition is convenience. There’s no need to travel to an unfamiliar testing center.

This can reduce stress, particularly for students who live far away from test centers.  Another advantage is familiarity. While taking the TOEFL Home Edition, you’ll be in a familiar environment, sitting at your own desk, using your own equipment, and avoiding unfamiliar spaces. This can reduce test-day anxiety for some students.

Lastly, the TOEFL Home Edition gives you greater flexibility. With frequent test dates and times, you can schedule a time that suits you, including weekends. That said, you should always check testing availability in your region before booking.

Although the TOEFL Home Edition offers several advantages, it’s also important to consider the drawbacks.

Firstly, the Home Edition test has strict technical and environmental requirements. You must have a stable internet connection, a compatible computer, and a quiet, private room where you won’t be disturbed. During your exam, background noise or someone entering the room can cause significant problems.

Secondly, there is a greater risk of technical issues throughout the exam. Even if your computer and equipment meet all software requirements, unexpected technical problems can still cause problems. Power cuts, temporary internet instability, software crashes, and webcam problems can interrupt your test. Should any of these occur, a proctor will be on hand to assist.

If you’re unsure if the TOEFL Home Edition is for you, then consider these traits.

Do you:

• Prefer a quiet, private testing space? 
• Feel comfortable with technology and troubleshooting issues? 
• Feel calmer at home compared to a test center? 
• Want more scheduling flexibility? 
• Live far away from a test center?  

If you answered yes to these questions, then the TOEFL Home Edition could be a good option for you.

Taking the TOEFL at a test center is the traditional, in-person option. On test day, you’ll travel to an official ETS testing facility. Once there, you’ll be required to check in, store your personal belongings in a safe place, and complete the exam on a computer in a controlled environment.

While not always the case, you’ll usually be in a room with other test takers, each of whom will have their own stations. During the test you’ll wear headphones and use center-provided equipment, all while following the exam rules, which will be providedby the supervisors on the day.

For many students, this can feel like a familiar academic experience, much like school or other tests.

The biggest advantage of a test center is reliability. Test centers conduct standardized exams throughout the year, which will ensure you have stable internet and the required equipment to complete the test with ease. Furthermore, trained staff will be on site to help you if you experience any issues.

Another advantage is that some students find it easier to focus in a formal environment. The structure and routine of a test center can help you switch into “exam mode,” which could influence your overall performance.

While a test center offers several benefits, it’s important to consider the challenges.

Firstly, test centers can be noisy, particularly during the Speaking section. This can be distracting if you’re sensitive to background noise, which could influence how you perform on the day.

Another challenge you need to consider is the commute and availability of test dates. Unlike the TOEFL iBT Home Edition, booking at a test center means you need to adhere to specific dates and times. Furthermore, a commute could add additional stress while navigating to an unfamiliar location.

If you’re unsure if taking your TOEFL test at a test center is best for you, then consider these factors.

Do you:

• Prefer a structured, formal exam environment? 
• Lack access to a quiet or private room?  
• Prefer to take exams alongside other test takers? 
• Perform better under traditional test conditions?  

If you like clear rules, standardized settings, and minimal technical uncertainty, the test center may give you more peace of mind.

Before making your decision, it’s important to note that both versions of the TOEFL test are equally valid. Universities and institutions do not distinguish between Home Edition and Test Center scores.

With this in mind, the right choice comes down to personal preferences about the testing environment. There’s no “right” or “wrong” option, just the one that will allow you to perform your best.

Before booking, assess your study habits and look back on previous tests you’ve completed. This will give you an overview of your preferences, allowing you to choose the right format for your test day.

Good luck!