One of the top options to consider to meet the language assessment test requirement to study abroad is TOEFL iBT. Alongside alternatives like the IELTS and the PTE Academic, universities around the world accept TOEFL iBT scores as proof of your proficiency in the English language. Here’s what you need to know about the TOEFL iBT test to study abroad.
TOEFL Meaning
TOEFL is an abbreviation of ‘Test of English as a Foreign Language’, a language assessment test that grades your proficiency in English out of 120 points. It assesses your ability in four key skill sections as part of its English language proficiency assessment: Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking.
The higher your score, the greater your proficiency and fluency level in English. Universities will consider TOEFL iBT scores to predict your success in their programs, where you will need to use academic English in and outside the classroom.
Types of TOEFL Tests
You have a couple of options when it comes to choosing the right language assessment test to study abroad. For prospective international students considering the TOEFL, you may be sitting:
TOEFL iBT
The TOEFL iBT is the most common test for international students and the one that most universities accept. Usually, you will sit the test on a computer at an exam center, although there is an online version of this English language proficiency assessment too.
There is also a paper edition version of the TOEFL iBT – however, this is only available about once or twice a month at centers in India, Mexico, Columbia, and the USA.
TOEFL Essentials
This is a shorter and more affordable test, comprising four skill sections that assess your language ability in both academic and everyday settings. While more universities are accepting TOEFL Essentials scores, please check the list of university courses you are considering for their test requirements before booking this one.
Components of the TOEFL iBT Test
The TOEFL language assessment test comprises four sections, which break down as follows:
Reading:
· Two passages
· 10 questions per passage
· 35 minutes
Listening:
· Recordings of three lectures – 6 questions for each lecture
· Recordings of two conversations – 5 questions for each lecture
· 36 minutes
Writing:
· Two Writing tasks
· 28 minutes
Speaking:
· Two Speaking tasks
· 16 minutes
TOEFL iBT Scores
Each band or section of the TOEFL iBT has a maximum score of 30 points. The overall band score is the total of these individual scores, with a maximum score of 120. For the computer-delivered TOEFL iBT score, you will receive your results within 4 to 8 days of your test day.
Rounding Up
TOEFL iBT, thanks to its widespread recognition, is a language assessment test you can use to apply to multiple global universities. Since proving your English language ability is a vital part of your applications to study abroad, be sure to look into score requirements and preparation materials before booking your test!
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