The TOEFL^® Test Advantage

90% of TOEFL test takers surveyed got into their 1st or 2nd choice university

Based on a random survey of 296 university students.

4 out of 5 admissions officers prefer the TOEFL test over any other English-language proficiency test*

*Source: Survey of 263 admissions officers at U.S. universities, of whom 212 accept both the TOEFL® test and the IELTS™ test, with 152 stating a preference.

More than 10,000 universities, agencies and other institutions in over 130 countries accept the TOEFL test, including top universities in Australia, Canada, the UK and the US.

Free resources and official prep materials — because there’s no better way to practice for test success than with tools from ETS, the creator of the TOEFL test

The entire test is given in half a day, unlike other tests that make you come back a second day

4 Reasons to Study Abroad

1. Makes you more marketable

When future employers are deciding on a candidate, studying abroad can make you stand out. Getting an international perspective and learning about a new culture can impress those doing the hiring. Plus, studying abroad can help enhance your English-language skills. One study showed that 97% of students who studied abroad found a job within 12 months of graduation, compared to only 49% of total college graduates.

2. Gives you a global perspective

It’s one thing to see what’s happening abroad online or on the news. It’s another thing entirely to experience a different culture firsthand. Learning about another culture by living in it will give you an understanding of what life is really like for people outside of your home country. You’ll be able to enjoy new foods, customs and traditions. And you’ll get to experience new ways of interacting—both in social and academic situations.

3. Expands your network of friends

Studying abroad gives you many opportunities to meet and bond with students from around the world. And those bonds don’t have to end with your flight home. Thanks to social media, making friends during your study abroad journey can mean making friends for life. In the future, these friendships may be more than personally rewarding. Your new friends may help you network in the business world. So make sure to stay in touch after your trip is over.

4. Helps you grow as a person

When you study abroad, you’ll probably do more than take in the new surroundings. Your journey will most likely inspire you to take a closer look at yourself. Studies have found that students who study abroad feel they become more mature and confident from their international experience. Being on your own in a different country challenges you to solve problems and adapt in new ways. This may show you just how capable you actually are!

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Study Abroad Resources:

Obtaining a Visa

Paying for School

Planning & Living Abroad

Around the World

Start Exploring

Click on the continents to start exploring and share your destination!

World View

Around the World

The United States attracts more international students than any other country. Including neighbors Canada and Mexico, North America greets students with incredibly diverse landscapes and cultures, as well as some of the top universities in the world.

United States

Nearly every higher-education institution in the US accepts TOEFL^® scores, including two-year and four-year undergraduate schools, as well as graduate and business programs.

Did you know?

Almost 900,000 students come to study in the US each year.
The state of California is their #1 destination, followed by New York and Texas.
The top fields of study for international students are business and engineering.

Canada

As an international leader in computer and information technologies, Canada is an excellent location to be immersed in the telecommunication, transportation and engineering industries.

All of the top 20 universities in Canada accept TOEFL scores.

Did you know?

The University of Waterloo in Ontario is consistently ranked as Canada's most innovative university, attracting international students from all over the world.

Mexico

The southern neighbor to the US, Mexico boasts excellent health care and a low cost of living.

Top industries include food and beverage and tourism.

Did you know?

You can stay up to six months in Mexico with a tourist visa.

Every year, thousands of students from South America take the TOEFL^® test to pursue their academic dreams.

The countries of South America also offer a beautiful backdrop for study abroad. More and more students are flocking here to experience the warm climate and dynamic culture of this exotic continent.

Click a country to explore how the TOEFL test can take you there!

Brazil

Brazil's economy is rapidly growing — there are thousands of high-paying jobs available for college grads.

The vibrant city of São Paolo — Brazil's largest city — is home to several renowned corporations and universities.

Did You Know?

The government is currently offering scholarships for Brazilian citizens who want to study abroad. Learn more.

Argentina

Home of the legendary tango dance, Argentina is the largest Spanish speaking country in the world by size.

Argentina's largest city is Buenos Aires, and the most important contributor to its economy is the service sector.

Did you know?

Argentina is the eighth largest country in the world.

Peru

Lima is both the capital city and the financial capital of Peru.

Two thirds of Peru is covered in rain forest.

Did you know?

Peru is the world's sixth largest producer of gold and eighth largest producer of coffee.

Venezuela

Venezuela is home to Angel Falls, the tallest waterfall in the world.

The country is known for its petroleum industry—95% of the country's export earnings come from oil.

Did you know?

Venezuela is one of the top 25 places of origin for international students studying in the United States.

Steeped in culture and history, Europe has been a leading destination for study abroad students for years. Its major capital cities like Paris, London and Amsterdam offer an abundance of educational, job and extracurricular opportunities.

Click a country to explore how the TOEFL test can take you there!

The Netherlands

Amsterdam is the financial and cultural capital of the Netherlands and rated a top European city in which to locate an international business.

There are about 90 TOEFL accepting institutions in the Netherlands.

Did you know?

Amsterdam is home to the oldest stock exchange in the world.

France

France is the world's sixth largest economy due to the educational system's quality and the national capacity for research and innovation.

Paris is world-renowned for its art, fashion and food.

Did you know?

The United States’ iconic Statue of Liberty was a gift from the people of France.

Germany

As a global leader in mechanical engineering and industrial production, Germany is a thriving market within the European Union that offers incredible research and development opportunities for students.

German students travel to study abroad more than their European counterparts.

Did you know?

Students are allowed to work in Germany for one year after the completion of their course, and work permits can be further extended.

The oldest inhabited land on earth, Africa is a continent unlike any other. From public health and service opportunities in developing nations, to exotic cultural and environmental adventures, Africa has so much to offer TOEFL test takers.

Click a country to explore how the TOEFL test can take you there!

South Africa

Due to low exchange rates, South Africa is an affordable living and studying option.

Students interested in wildlife biology, archeology and conservation will find this country a rewarding destination.

Did you know?

South Africa has one of the highest rates of public investment in education in the world.

Morocco

A country with deep cultural roots, Morocco attracts students interested in Arab studies and foreign policy.

Morocco is renowned for its literature, art and architecture.

Did you know?

Morocco is only nine miles away from Europe, separated by the Strait of Gibraltar.

Nigeria

Nigeria is the seventh most populous country in the world and is considered an emerging market.

The financial and communications sectors are a central component of Nigeria's success.

Did you know?

The Nigerian movie industry is known as "Nollywood."

As a group, Asian nations send more students abroad than any other continent. Many outstanding students also take advantage of TOEFL scholarships to help attend their dream programs.

Bustling cities like Hong Kong, Beijing and Singapore are also some of the top destinations in the world for students studying finance and technology.

Click a country to explore how the TOEFL test can take you there!

China

China is a popular destination for all types of engineering: electrical, mechanical, civil, chemical, environmental, petroleum, marine and navigation, computer software.

Chinese universities make many courses available in English for international students.

Did you know?

During the 2014–2015 school year, about 304,040 Chinese students came to the US to study abroad.

India

More than 30,000 students a year come from abroad to study in India.

India's largest city, Mumbai, is home to top business, engineering and technology schools.

Did you know?

Indian students are the second largest foreign student population in the US, after the Chinese.

Japan

Japan's economy is incredibly advanced, having seen dramatic growth over the past three decades.

Production of motor vehicles and electronic equipment are major industries.

Did you know?

Japan has over 200 volcanoes!

Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia has the fastest growing population of students leaving to study abroad, fueled by scholarships offered by the Saudi Arabian Cultural Ministry.

A large majority of recent poll respondents in Saudi Arabia declared their economy to be very good and growing even stronger.

Did you know?

Nearly 60,000 Saudi Arabian students studied in the United States from 2014-2015.

Singapore

Singapore is a booming business center, with more than 7,000 multinational companies operating in the tiny Asian-Pacific nation.

A global education hub, Singapore is also becoming a top business school destination.

Did you know?

Foreigners make up 30% of Singapore’s workforce.

Korea

In the country where the martial art of Tae Kwon Do originated, Korean universities provide abundant arts and sciences programs.

Several global leaders in the electronics and automobile industries are located in Korea.

Did you know?

Korea is home to more than 100 TOEFL accepting institutions.

The land down under is one of the most exciting destinations for study abroad. Its location in the Southern Hemisphere means Australia's seasons are opposite from those in Europe, the US and Asia — just one of the things that makes this island continent so interesting.

Click a country to explore how the TOEFL test can take you there!

Australia

Australia has the third highest number of international students in the world, behind only the UK and the US.

Every university in the Group of Eight accepts TOEFL scores.

Study in Australia Scholarships are offered by the Australian Government, education institutions and a number of other organizations. Learn more

Did you know?

TOEFL scores are accepted for both Australian student visas and course admissions. For more information, visit http://www.immi.gov.au.

New Zealand

Focused on innovation, New Zealand’s economy is consistently growing.

This remote nation in the South Pacific is made up of two islands, the North Island and the larger South Island.

Did you know?

Rugby is the national sport of New Zealand. Cricket and sailing are also tremendously popular.

Hello, globetrotter!

Think you know your facts about the world's various destinations? Test your knowledge here.

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For Parents

Give your children amazing opportunities to succeed.

Studying abroad at an English-speaking university is an excellent way for your children to broaden their perspective and gain an advantage in the job market. That path to success starts with the TOEFL test.

We encourage you to explore this site to learn more about the test and the opportunities it can bring, both at home and abroad. Our Visa & Study Abroad Resources section will also help answer a lot of your questions. Share it with your children. And help them register for the TOEFL test when they are ready to pursue their dreams!

Inspiration & Advice

Success stories from test takers like you.

As important as excelling at work or school may be — enjoy the journey, experience life as much as possible wherever you are, explore fearlessly, observe keenly, and learn tirelessly.”

Learn more about Bertha

Bertha Bay Sa Pan

Film Director

I studied English [by] watching a lot of movies. I was able to practice the proper, natural English expression in accordance with different emotions and situations through the dialog in films.”

Learn more about Jun

Jun Soo Ha

Film Director

When communicating with business partners overseas or with HQ colleagues, formal business English is essential.”

Learn more about Jung

Jung Joon Moon

Head of Revenue Management Team, Parnas Hotel Company

I would advise not to study with the examination score only in mind...focus on the ultimate goal; to enhance your English skills.”

Learn more about Sei

Sei Woong Oh

Dean of English Literature, Rider University

Never stop learning and absorbing knowledge. You should read the news, watch TV, listen and talk to people every day to improve your knowledge and your communication.”

See more tips

Bui Duc Bao

TV presenter and MC, Vietnam Television

Leaving my hometown to study at Renmin University changed my life significantly. In fact, the most important steps in one’s life are often the fundamental changes one makes.”

Explore The Journey Abroad

Fu Chunxiao

Senior Manager, Greater China’s Young Global Leaders Community, World Economic Forum

Don't be afraid to have some courage, to follow your heart and your intuition. It's really important to stick to it…it's worth it.”

Find inspiration

Ami Hirai

Jazz Singer

I witness again and again how new-found understanding about the world transforms my students. They become confident, well-rounded individuals who understand themselves and the world around them, and can contribute positively to it.”

Explore Stories of Success

Nguyen Lan Huong

English teacher, Yola English Center, Hochiminh City

If you still haven’t discovered what you really want to do, work hard to put yourself in a larger arena. Try to reach more people and things.”

Explore destinations

Lin Haiyin

Founder and Photographer, Haiyin Lin Photography

English is like a key that opens so many doors and brings new opportunities every day. And TOEFL IBT is a great way to prepare for a future career, because where in the world do people not speak English?”

Explore destinations

Bui Duc Bao

TV presenter and MC, Vietnam Television

Don’t stress over cramming for tests. Take time to listen to English conversations in real life environments, read good books, watch fun movies and TV shows…that’s what helped my vocabulary!”

See more tips

Bertha Bay Sa Pan

Film Director

Embrace the TOEFL test as not only a test of English, but also an opportunity for you to test your thinking and your presentation skills.”

Build your English skills

Nguyen Lan Huong

English teacher at Yola English Center in Hochiminh City

If you don’t learn English, so many important parts of the world are shut away. When you rely on translation, so much of the original meaning gets lost. You want the opportunity to dive in firsthand.”

Learn more about Hannah

Hannah Schuerholz

Associate Lecturer

I totally recommend studying English, because look at the world right now. From the US and Canada, to Australia, England and other parts of Europe — people are communicating in English.”

Learn more about Hiroki

Hiroki Sato

Athletic Trainer

I hope test takers won’t approach the test as an examination, but instead see it as an experience. The TOEFL Test is the first door through which I saw the world.”

Find test day tips

Zhao Yang

Architectural Designer

Swipe to learn more

TOEFL^® Test Basics

What is the TOEFL Test?

The TOEFL test measures the ability of non-native English speakers to use and understand English as it’s read, written, heard and spoken in the university classroom.

If you want to study at an English-speaking university or program, no other test can get you to as many destinations around the world as the TOEFL test.

Test Format

In most test centers worldwide, you’ll take the TOEFL iBT^® test on a computer. However, the TOEFL test is administered as a paper-based test (TOEFL^® PBT) in a few places where testing via the Internet is not available.

Sections

The TOEFL test measures all four English-language skills. It takes about four hours.

Section	Time Limit	No. of Questions	Overview
Reading	60—80 minutes	36—56 questions	Read passages, then respond to questions
Listening	60—90 minutes	34—51 questions	Listen to lectures or a classroom discussion, then respond to questions
BREAK	Relax for 10 minutes
Speaking	20 minutes	6 tasks	Speak into a microphone about familiar topics and discuss material you read about and listened to
Writing	50 minutes	2 tasks	Read a passage, listen to a recording and then type your written response

Dates & Fees

Registration is available five to six months before the test date. Register early to reserve your seat. See test dates near you.
The test fee depends on the location where you will be taking the test. Find more information on fees by location.
Registering online is the easiest method. We can walk you through it here.

About TOEFL iBT ^® Scores:

Score requirements are set by individual colleges and universities.
You’ll receive a score from 0 to 30 for each section and a total score of 0 to 120 for the entire test.
Scores are valid for 2 years after your test date.
You can try for a better score as many times as you’d like—there are unlimited retakes. (You just can’t take the test more than once in a 12-day period.)

Getting and Sending Your Scores:

Your scores will be ready in 10 days, and you can view them easily online.
A paper score report will be mailed to you if you select that option when you register.
For test dates after January 1, 2015, you can download a PDF copy of your score report from your account.
(Note: Downloadable score reports are currently not available for tests taken in China).
Scores are sent free to up to 4 institutions that you select prior to your test day.

Fairness

The Speaking section is measured more fairly.

You will speak into a microphone without a rater sitting in front of you. After you are finished, your responses will be assessed by three to six raters to give you the most fair and objective score possible.