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TOEFL® EssentialsTM Test

A friendly and convenient English-language test with the quality that universities respect

Select any step to learn more about your TOEFL® EssentialsTM journey.
 

Equipment and Environment Requirements

Before you register for the TOEFL Essentials test, make sure your computer and testing room meet the following requirements. If you don't meet these requirements on test day, you won't be able to test, and you won't receive a refund or a free reschedule.
 

Equipment

  • Desktop or laptop computer; you can't use a tablet or mobile device.
  • Only one monitor or screen; multiple monitors or dual screens are not permitted.
  • Approved operating system, which has to be licensed. Unlicensed or test-mode versions are not permitted.
    • PC: Windows® operating system, versions 10 or 8.
    • MAC®: Mac OS X® 10.5 or higher (10.13 High Sierra® is recommended).
  • Chrome™ or Firefox® browser.

  • Download and install the ETS Secure Test Browser on the computer you'll use to test. To fully install the browser, run the file after downloading it. You can close the browser once you see the following message: "Success! You have installed the ETS secure test browser."
  • Run the ProctorU Equipment Check from the computer you'll use to test. If you fail the equipment check, be sure to fix any issues before test day. Live ProctorU representatives are available to help.
  • Computer firewalls and security applications can interfere with the test delivery software. If you experience this issue, you may need to disable or reconfigure your applications prior to the test.

Helpful Tip

The equipment check includes a bandwidth check. Since bandwidth differs depending on time of day and network usage, run the equipment check at a few different times to see which time works best. Additionally, you should run the check on the same day of the week and the same time of day as your test. That way, you're checking your bandwidth in an environment similar to what you would experience when you test. Watch the helpful Tech Tips video.

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  • Use an internal or external speaker to hear the proctor.
  • Headsets or earphones aren't allowed.

  • Use an internal or external microphone that isn't part of a headset to communicate with the proctor.

  • Can be a built-in camera in the computer or a separate webcam.
  • You’ll need to be able to move the camera to show the proctor a 360-degree view of the room, including your tabletop surface, before the test.

Environment and testing space

  • You’ll need to be alone in a room with no one else entering during the test.
  • You can't take the test in a public space such as a park, internet cafe or restaurant.
  • You’ll need to close all doors in the room before beginning the test.

  • Your computer and keyboard need to be on a desk or other tabletop surface.
  • Position your table and chair so the door to the room will be visible to the proctor. The proctor may require you to do this at check in.
  • The tabletop and surrounding area need to be clear of all items not approved for use during the test, including cell phones (except when used for check in), cameras, notes and study materials. The furniture and décor in the room don't need to be removed.
  • You’ll need to sit in a standard chair; you can't sit or lie on a bed, couch or overstuffed chair.
  • Food and drink aren't allowed during the test.

  • Your ears and face need to remain visible throughout the test, not covered by hair, a hat or other items. Religious headwear is permitted if your ears remain visible during the test. Face masks may not be worn during check in or any part of the at home testing session.
  • Dress appropriately for your test. You'll be monitored via camera by the proctor, and your photo will be shared with institutions that receive your scores.
  • You’ll need to remove all headphones, smartwatches, face masks, jewelry, tie clips, cuff links, ornate clips, combs, barrettes, headbands and other hair accessories before checking in for your exam. You do not need to remove wedding and engagement rings.

  • You may not take notes on regular paper, for security purposes.
  • You may use one of the following to take notes:
    • one small desktop whiteboard with erasable marker, no pencil or pen
    • one sheet of paper inside a transparent sheet protector, with erasable marker
  • At the end of the test, you'll need to show the proctor that all notes have been erased.