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TOEFL iBT® Test

The premier test of academic English communication

Learn more by selecting any step in your TOEFL iBT® journey.

 

An Enhanced TOEFL iBT Experience

Learn about the latest enhancements being made to the TOEFL iBT testing experience, including a shorter test time. Enhancements go into effect on July 26, 2023.

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What to Expect When You Test at a Test Center

Get ready for test day at a test center. This information applies if you’re taking the TOEFL iBT test or the TOEFL iBT Paper Edition (Reading, Listening and Writing sections).

 

ID Requirements and Test Center Procedures

Be sure to review the ID Requirements and read the TOEFL iBT® Information Bulletin for complete information on prohibited items, check-in procedures and testing procedures, so you’ll know exactly what to expect on test day.

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A Preview of Test Day

Learn more about:

  • checking in and showing your ID
  • test security procedures
  • using your headset and microphone1
  • taking the test
  • viewing your Reading and Listening scores1
  • the option to cancel your scores

View Transcript

 

Double-check your appointment details

One day (24 hours) before your appointment, sign in to your ETS account to confirm there are no changes to your registration details (e.g., a different time or building than originally scheduled).

 

Here’s what you’ll need to bring to the test center:

  • valid, acceptable identification (ID)
  • a mask

If you’re taking the Paper Edition, you’ll also need to bring:

  • a printout of your order confirmation email — you’ll need to record information from the email on your answer sheet.
  • #2 or HB pencils and erasers — mechanical pencils are not permitted.

 

You can't bring any food or drink into the testing room unless you have an approved health accommodation. You’ll need to request accommodations before you register for the test.

We recommend that you bring at least two forms of ID in case the test administrator questions the first ID you present. See the Bulletin for a list of valid and acceptable ID.

If you don't bring valid and acceptable ID, or if the name on your ID doesn't exactly match the name in your account, you won't be able to take the test, and your test fee won't be refunded.

You’ll need to bring your own mask. If you don't have one, you won't be admitted to the test center.

Some test centers are requiring proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test within a specific time frame before testing, for entrance to the test center. Be sure to check with your local test center for a complete list of health and safety procedures required for admission to the test center.

If it's not an approved item, don't bring it into the testing room. This includes phones, watches or any other electronic, recording, listening, scanning or photographic devices.

For a full list of prohibited items and items that may be inspected, see the Bulletin.

Make sure to arrive at least 30 minutes before your test time, to allow time for check in. See the Bulletin for all test center procedures during check in and your test session.

 

A note about test security

Test security is very important to ETS. There are policies and procedures that test centers must follow to ensure the test is administered fairly and securely. If you fail to follow the instructions of the test center staff, you won't be permitted to test, and your test fee won't be refunded. Any violation of security procedures during the test or during a break may result in dismissal from the test center and/or cancellation of your test scores. You can review all the security policies and procedures in the Bulletin.

 

At the end of the test, your Reading and Listening sections are scored instantly.1 These unofficial scores can give you an idea of how you did on the test. You can then choose to report or cancel your scores. See the Bulletin for details on what to consider.

 

1 Doesn't apply to TOEFL iBT Paper Edition.