TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) — Test Preparation Guide | ConsultancyCheck

Why TOEFL is important

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University Admissions

TOEFL is the primary English test required by most US and Canadian universities, and is also accepted broadly in the UK, Australia, and Europe.

Required by 99% of US universities
Total score of 80–100 needed for most programmes
Scores of 100+ expected at top-ranked institutions

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Visa Approval

TOEFL scores are accepted for student visas in the USA, Canada, Australia, and many other countries.

Accepted by US, Canadian, and Australian student visa programmes
Many institutions accept TOEFL in lieu of other tests
Scores sent directly to institutions electronically

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Scholarships

A strong TOEFL score strengthens scholarship applications, particularly for US universities where it is the primary English test.

Fulbright and other major scholarship programmes accept TOEFL
High scores demonstrate readiness for demanding academic work
Can differentiate you in competitive scholarship pools

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Global Opportunities

TOEFL is recognised by institutions and employers in over 160 countries, making it a versatile qualification.

Accepted in 160+ countries worldwide
Useful for academic and professional opportunities globally
Score reports can be sent to unlimited institutions for free on test day

TOEFL test format

Section

Duration

Questions

Reading

35 min

20 questions

2 academic reading passages with comprehension and vocabulary questions

Listening

36 min

28 questions

3 lectures and 2 conversations with inference and detail questions

Speaking

16 min

4 tasks

1 independent (opinion) task + 3 integrated (read/listen/speak) tasks

Writing

29 min

2 tasks

Integrated task (read/listen/write) + Academic Discussion task

TOEFL scoring

114–120

Advanced

Required by Ivy League and elite institutions

100–113

High

Required by most top-ranked universities

80–99

Upper Intermediate

Meets requirements of most universities

60–79

Intermediate

Meets some entry requirements; graduate study may require higher

Exam fees

USD $220–$300 (approx. AUD $340–$460)

Fees vary by country and test centre. Check the official ETS TOEFL website for current pricing in your location.

How to prepare for TOEFL

Take the TOEFL Quick Prep tests

ETS provides free official practice tests. Take these first to understand the test format before buying additional materials.

Practise note-taking for Listening

TOEFL Listening sections are long and complex. Good note-taking skills are essential — practise writing key points while listening.

Master integrated tasks

Integrated Speaking and Writing tasks combine reading, listening, and production. These are unique to TOEFL and require specific practice.

Build academic vocabulary

TOEFL uses formal academic language. Studying the Academic Word List and reading academic texts significantly improves Reading and Listening scores.

Simulate test conditions

Take full-length practice tests in one sitting to build stamina. The test is approximately 2 hours long with no breaks.

Frequently asked questions

Is TOEFL accepted in Australia?

Yes, TOEFL iBT is accepted by Australian universities and for Australian student visas. However, IELTS and PTE are more commonly used in Australia — confirm with your specific institution.

How long is a TOEFL score valid?

TOEFL scores are valid for 2 years from the test date.

Can I take TOEFL at home?

Yes — TOEFL iBT Home Edition is available in most countries and is identical to the test centre version. You need a private room, a reliable computer, and a stable internet connection.

How many free score reports do I get?

You can send your scores for free to up to 4 institutions on test day. Additional score reports can be sent for a fee.