Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about the TOEFL exam
All information at a glance
General information about TOEFL
The TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is an internationally recognized test that assesses the English language skills of non-native speakers. It is often used for admission to universities, colleges and for professional purposes, especially in English-speaking countries.
Both tests assess English language skills, but differ in format and acceptability:
- TOEFL: more academically oriented, computer-based, more commonly accepted in North America.
- IELTS: offers academic and general variants, includes a personal interview, more common in the UK, Australia and New Zealand.
The choice between Cambridge and TOEFL depends on your individual goals:
- TOEFL: Ideal for academic purposes and university applications, especially in the USA and Canada. Results are valid for two years.
- Cambridge: Certificates such as FCE, CAE, CPE are valid for life and are well suited for long-term proof of English language skills, especially in Europe.
There are two main types of TOEFL tests:
- TOEFL iBT (Internet-based Test): The most common test, conducted online, evaluates reading, listening, speaking and writing skills.
- TOEFL Essentials: A shorter, adaptive test that assesses basic English language skills, also available online.
The TOEFL test is recognized by over 11,000 universities, colleges and organizations in more than 150 countries worldwide. It is used particularly frequently for applications to universities in the USA, Canada, Europe and Australia.
Registration and implementation
The cost of the TOEFL varies depending on the country and test center. In Germany, the fees are currently around 250-270 euros. You can check the exact prices on the official ETS website.
You can Registration online via the official ETS website(www.ets.org/toefl). There you can select your desired date, test center or Home Edition, enter your personal data and pay the test fee. After successful Registration you will receive a confirmation by e-mail.
You will need a valid ID document for the test, typically a passport or identity card. The document must include a photo, your full name and your signature. Make sure that you bring the exact document that you provided when you Registration .
Preparation for the TOEFL
The preparation time depends heavily on your current language level and your target result. It is advisable to take a trial test at an early stage in order to assess your learning needs more accurately.
- Official ETS preparation materials (e.g. "The Official Guide to the TOEFL Test")
- Preparation course (ILS TOEFL preparation courses)
- TOEFL sample tests (e.g. ETS Online Practice Tests)
- Books and exercise books (e.g. Barron's TOEFL, Cambridge Preparation)
- Apps and podcasts to practise listening comprehension and language skills
Results and evaluation
The results of the TOEFL iBT are usually available online about 6 days after the test date. You will receive an email notification as soon as your results are available. The official result (score report) by mail usually takes about 7-10 days within the USA and about 4-6 weeks internationally.
The results of a TOEFL test are valid for two years from the test date. After this period, your score will no longer be officially recognized and you will have to take the test again if a current certificate is required.
What is considered a "good" TOEFL score depends on your individual goals. Here are some guidelines:
- Universities in the USA and Canada: Often at least 80-100 points, depending on the university and the degree program.
- Top universities (e.g. Ivy League): Often 100 points or more.
- European universities: Often at least 80-90 points.
- General orientation:
- 80-90 points: medium to good level (B2).
- 90-100 points: good to very good level (B2/C1).
- Over 100 points: excellent level (C1/C2).
Yes, you can retake the TOEFL test as often as you like. However, you must wait at least 3 days between two test dates. Please note that there is a new fee for each new test.
- Reading: 0-30 points
- Listening: 0-30 points
- Speaking: 0-30 points
- Writing: 0-30 points
The total score is the sum of these four sections (maximum 120 points in total).
When you Registration , you can select up to four institutions to which your results will be sent free of charge. If you want to add more institutions later, you can do this online via your ETS account for an additional fee. The results will then be sent electronically directly from ETS to the selected institutions.
Certificates and recognition
- Universities and colleges: Especially in the USA, Canada, Australia, Great Britain and Europe.
- Immigration authorities: For visa applications in countries such as Australia or New Zealand.
- Companies: For applications to international companies that require proof of English language skills.
- Scholarship programs: Many international scholarship providers accept the TOEFL as proof of language proficiency.
- TOEFL: More often preferred by universities in the USA and Canada.
- IELTS: Often required by institutions in the UK, Australia and New Zealand. However, both tests are accepted by most international universities and organizations. It is advisable to check the requirements of your target institution.
Yes, the TOEFL test is recognized by many universities and organizations in Europe. The TOEFL is particularly common for English-language degree programs. In countries such as Germany, the Netherlands and Sweden, it is often required for Master's and Bachelor's programs.
Yes, the TOEFL is accepted by many countries for visa purposes, e.g:
- Australia: For student, work and migration visas.
- New Zealand: For certain visa categories.
- United States: For student visas (F-1, J-1).
- IELTS (International English Language Testing System): Particularly popular in Great Britain and Australia.
- Cambridge English tests (e.g. C1 Advanced, C2 Proficiency): Lifelong valid certificates.
- PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English): Often used for study purposes.