What to expect on test day

TOEFL® Step-by-Step

The TOEFL® test is an important part of your journey to studying abroad. And because it’s so important, there are protocols that need to be followed at the test site, to ensure the fairness and security of your test.

We’ve outlined the important things you need to know for test day, so you can come prepared and confident. For a preview of what to expect at the test center, watch our TOEFL iBT® Testing Site video.

Checking in at the test center:

You should arrive at the test center at least 30 minutes early; if you're late, you won't be able to take the test.
You must meet all the following test taker requirements:
- Show an ETS-approved form of identification that contains a photograph and signature. The name on your ID must exactly match the name you provided at registration.
- Provide handwriting and signature samples.
- Have your photo taken. This will be displayed at your computer station and embedded into your paper score report.
Identification documents are the only personal items allowed in the testing room.
You'll be assigned a seat by the test administrator.

Please note: Some test centers also require one or more of these:

Metal detector scan or security wanding
Thumb scan
ID with electronic chip
Video monitoring of the testing room during the test

Taking the Test:

Once the test has started:

You're not allowed access to personal items such as books, electronic devices, handbags and backpacks, which are stored separately to maintain security.
If you need help for any reason, simply raise your hand.
Blank paper and a pencil are provided for you and will be collected at the end of the session.
There is a mandatory 10-minute break midway through the test.
You must present your identification to the test center administrator for verification upon return from the break.
Watch your pace so you don't go over your time for each section; the computer is the official timekeeper.
The test takes about 4 hours, and you won't be allowed to test beyond the time limit.

What to bring on test day:

There are two things you need to bring to take the test: 1. An acceptable, valid ID and 2. Your Registration Confirmation. Here's what this means:

Acceptable, valid identification documents(s)

name

signature

recent photo

What is considered an acceptable, valid identification document? That depends on the country of your citizenship, and the location where you plan to test. Click here to learn the specific ID requirements you need.

Your Registation Confirmation

Make sure you log into your profile to re-check your Registration Confirmation the day before you take the test; any changes made at the test site (like the test start time) will be updated for you.
To check and print your Registration Confirmation, go to your TOEFL profile at ets.org, click TOEFL, then click the Log In button under "My TOEFL iBT® Profile."
Enter your username and password.
Once on your Home Page, click View Order(s), Registration Confirmation, and print your page.
Bring your Registration Confirmation with you to the test site, along with your valid ID.

What is expected of you at the test center:

ETS reserves the right to dismiss you from a test session, cancel your scores without a refund and/or bar you from future testing for any improper behavior that may interfere with a fair administration of the test. Some of these behaviors are listed below; see an expanded list on the TOEFL iBT Testing Policies page.

Taking the test for someone else or having someone take the test for you.
Attempting to give or receive assistance. Communication in any form is not permitted.
Removing or attempting to remove any test content, scratch paper, or notes relating to the test.
Using or having a telephone or cell phone during the test or during breaks.
Use of any unauthorized aids, including calculators, notes, stereos or radios with headphones, dictionaries, translators, and any hand-held electronic or photographic devices.
Tampering with the computer.
Leaving the test room or test center vicinity without permission during the test or during breaks.
Engaging in any kind of disruptive or threatening behavior.

How to report suspicious behavior:

Contact ETS to report behavior that may interfere with test security or cause a disturbance.

Phone:

1-800-353-8570

1-609-406-5430

Fax:

1-609-406-9709

Email:

TSReturns@ets.org

For additional information about our policies, please view the TOEFL iBT Testing Policies page.

* Source: Survey of 263 admission officers at U.S. universities, of which 212 accept both the TOEFL® test and the IELTS™ test and 152 state a preference.

Copyright © 2014 by Educational Testing Service. All rights reserved. ETS, the ETS logo, GRADUATE RECORD EXAMINATIONS, GRE, LISTENING. LEARNING. LEADING., TOEFL, TOEFL IBT, TOEFL JOURNEY and TOEIC are registered trademarks of Educational Testing Service (ETS) in the United States of America and other countries throughout the world.