Test of English as a Foreign Language – Internet-Based Test
The TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language – Internet-Based Test) is a globally recognized English proficiency test developed and administered by ETS (Educational Testing Service). It evaluates a candidate’s ability to use and understand English in an academic context, making it one of the preferred exams for students planning to study in the United States, Canada, Australia, and several European countries.
TOEFL is accepted by more than 11,500 universities and institutions across 160+ countries, including 96% of universities in the U.S. and a growing number in the UK and Europe.
The GMAT is best suited for:
Unlike other tests like IELTS which have both academic and general versions, TOEFL is designed purely for academic purposes. The test is especially suitable for students who are more comfortable with computer-based, structured assessments and prefer typing over handwriting.
Ethos Education helps students plan, prepare, and register for the TOEFL with complete strategy support, mock tests, and feedback from certified English language experts.
The TOEFL iBT is afully computer-based test delivered via the internet and consists of four core sections that assess a candidate’s language proficiency in academic settings. The exam lasts for approximately 2 hours, and the entire process—from reading to speaking—is conducted on-screen.
| Exam Structure | |||
| Section | Time | No. of Questions/Tasks | Skills Assessed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reading | 35 mins | 20 questions | Comprehension, inference, vocabulary in academic texts |
| Listening | 36 mins | 28 questions | Understanding lectures, conversations, tone, and detail |
| Speaking | 16 mins | 4 tasks | Expressing opinion, summarizing lectures, conversations |
| Writing | 29 mins | 2 tasks | Integrated & independent writing on academic topics |
Students must register online through the ETS official website. TOEFL iBT is offered multiple times a month at various authorized centers across India, and test-takers can also choose the Home Edition depending on availability and eligibility.
| Step-by-Step Registration | |
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Visit ETS site | Go to www.ets.org/toefl |
| Create an account | Provide personal and academic details |
| Choose test type | TOEFL iBT Test Center or Home Edition |
| Select test date/location | Pick a date and center (or confirm system requirements at home) |
| Upload ID proof | Usually passport for Indian students |
| Pay exam fee | Pay online using debit/credit card |
| Confirmation | Get admission ticket and email confirmation |
| Fee Details (for India) | |
| Component | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| TOEFL iBT Test | ~$195 |
| Rescheduling | ~$60 |
| Additional Score Reports | ~$20 each |
| Home Edition Requirements | Free but must meet hardware/software standards |
Ethos mentors assist students in selecting optimal dates, ensuring smooth registration, and planning study timelines aligned with application deadlines.
Slot booking is integrated within the TOEFL registration process. Students select theirpreferred test date and location while creating an account and completing payment.
| Step by Step Slot Booking | |
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Check slot availability | Choose from real-time calendar on ETS website |
| Select format | Test Center or Home Edition |
| Choose time | Some centers allow morning/afternoon slot selection |
| Confirm and pay | Payment locks your slot and generates your test ticket |
| Get reminders | ETS sends confirmation and pre-exam instructions via email |
| Feature | TOEFL iBT | IELTS | PTE Academic | Duolingo English Test |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Full Form | Test of English as a Foreign Language | International English Language Testing System | Pearson Test of English Academic | — |
| Test Type | Internet-based | Paper or Computer-based | Computer-based | Online, at home |
| Duration | ~2 hours | ~2 hours 45 mins | ~2 hours | ~1 hour |
| Scoring | 0–120 | Band score 0–9 | 10–90 | 10–160 |
| Accepted By | 11,000+ institutions | 11,000+ institutions | 3,000+ institutions | 4,000+ institutions |
| Speaking Section | Recorded responses (via mic) | Live interview with examiner | Recorded responses | Recorded responses |
| Result Time | 4–6 days | 3–5 days (computer); 13 days (paper) | 1–2 days | 2 days |
| Test Mode | At test centers or home (TOEFL iBT Home Edition) | Test centers (some at-home options) | Test centers or home | At home only |
| Cost (USD) | ~$190–$250 | ~$190–$250 | ~$180–$220 | ~$59 |