Master
TOEFL
2026
The world's premier English language test for university admissions — accepted by 12,000+ institutions in 160+ countries. Everything you need to know, in one place.
What is TOEFL?
The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is the world's most widely accepted English-language test for higher education, trusted by over 12,000 universities in 160+ countries.
Developed and administered by ETS (Educational Testing Service), TOEFL iBT measures your ability to use and understand English at the university level. It evaluates how well you combine reading, listening, speaking, and writing skills to perform academic tasks.
For Indian students aiming to study in the USA, Canada, UK, Germany, Australia, or New Zealand, TOEFL is often the preferred or required test — especially for US universities. Most top programmes require a score of 90–100, while highly competitive schools often expect 100+.
TOEFL iBT is delivered entirely on computer and internet, available at 4,500+ test centres in 165 countries — including 200+ centres across India in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, Pune, and more.
If you're applying to US or Canadian universities, TOEFL iBT is usually preferred. For UK, Australia, and European institutions, both are accepted — check your specific university's requirement. TOEFL uses a computer-only format while IELTS offers paper-based options.
The 4 Test Sections
TOEFL iBT consists of four sections, each scored out of 30 points, for a maximum total of 120. All sections are completed in a single sitting.
Approximately 2 hours for TOEFL iBT (updated shorter format since 2023) — Reading (35 min), Listening (36 min), Speaking (16 min), Writing (29 min). No breaks in the standard format.
Understanding Score Ranges
TOEFL iBT uses a 0–120 scale. Each of the four sections is scored 0–30 and summed. ETS also provides performance descriptors for each score range.
| Score | Level | Description | Typical Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| 114–120 | Advanced+ | Full academic command; communicates with precision and nuance in all contexts | MIT, Harvard, Stanford, Oxbridge |
| 100–113 | Advanced | Highly effective academic English; handles complex material with ease | Top 50 US/UK/Canadian universities |
| 80–99 | High Intermediate | Effective academic English; occasional gaps in complex situations | Most US/Australian/European programs |
| 60–79 | Intermediate | Some academic proficiency; limited effectiveness in complex tasks | Foundation / pathway programmes |
| 40–59 | Low Intermediate | Limited academic language skills; struggles with extended discourse | Pre-sessional English required |
| 0–39 | Below Basic | Minimal English proficiency in academic settings | Not accepted by universities |
For most US and Canadian universities, the minimum total score is 80–90. Top-ranked programmes (MBA, Medicine, Law, CS) typically require 100–110. Always check individual department requirements, as section minimums (e.g. Speaking ≥ 22) may also apply.
Expert Prep Tips
Scoring 100+ on TOEFL requires a targeted strategy. Here are the key approaches recommended by our TOEFL coaches.
How to Register
Registering for TOEFL iBT in India is done entirely online through ETS. Follow these steps to book your preferred test date and centre.
TOEFL iBT is available at 200+ centres across India including Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, Pune, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Jaipur, Lucknow, and more.
TOEFL Exam Fees 2026
TOEFL iBT fees vary by country. Here are the current fee structures for Indian students and key study destinations.
You can reschedule more than 4 days before your test for a fee of USD 60. Cancellations more than 4 days in advance receive a 50% refund. No refund is given within 4 days of the test date. Score reinstatement is available for USD 30.