The TOEFL^® Test Advantage

Accepted worldwide. TOEFL scores are accepted by more than 10,000 universities and other institutions in over 150 countries.

Preferred in the U.S. Nine out of 10 universities in the U.S. prefer the TOEFL test over other English-language tests.* U.S. universities receive more TOEFL scores than all other English-language tests combined.**

*Source: Survey of 94 admissions officers at U.S. universities who accept both TOEFL and IELTS^® scores and who expressed a preference.
**Source: Survey of 329 admissions officers at U.S. universities.

More popular in Canada. More than 80% of graduate programs in Canada prefer the TOEFL test over other English-language tests.* Canadian universities receive more TOEFL scores than all other English-language tests combined.**

*Source: Survey of 44 graduate admissions officers at Canadian universities.
**Source: Survey of 107 admissions officers at Canadian universities.

100% accepted in Australia and New Zealand. TOEFL scores are accepted by all Australian and New Zealand universities, and for all Australian and New Zealand immigration.

More popular in France and Germany. French and German universities prefer the TOEFL test and receive more TOEFL scores than any other English-language test.*

*Source: Survey of 59 admissions officers at French universities.
*Source: Survey of 100 admissions officers at German universities.

Widely accepted in the U.K. More than 98% of universities in the U.K. accept TOEFL scores, including 100% of the elite Russell Group universities, providing a fair and unbiased alternative.

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 U.S. accepts TOEFL® scores, including two-year and four-year undergraduate schools, as well as graduate and business programs.

Did you know?

The current United States flag was designed by a high school student named Robert G. Heft in 1958 as a school project.

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?

Canada has the longest coastline of any country in the world.

Mexico

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

Some of the top industries include aerospace and automotive engineering, food and beverages, and pharmaceutical health.

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 studying 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 name Brazil comes from a tree named brazilwood, commonly found along the coast.

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 has three official languages: Spanish, Quechua and Aymara.

Venezuela

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

The country of Venezuela consists of 23 states: The Capital District and Federal Dependencies, which consist of a large number of islands in the Caribbean Sea.

Did you know?

Canaima National Park, one of 43 national parks in Venezuela, is among the largest parks in the world.

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 has one of the world's largest economies 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?

As the largest country in the European Union, France is often referred to as "the hexagon" due to its six-sided shape.

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 is home to one of the oldest and largest meteor craters in the world, called the Vredefort Dome, created over 2 billion years ago.

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?

In Moroccan culture, the liver and not the heart is considered to be the symbol of love.

Nigeria

Nigeria's name came from the Niger River, one of the longest and largest rivers in Africa.

The financial and communications sectors are central contributors to Nigeria's growing economy.

Did you know?

The Nigerian movie industry is known as "Nollywood."

As a group, Asian nations send more students abroad than any other continent.

Bustling cities like Hong Kong, Beijing and Singapore also are 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?

The Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, is a celebration that lasts for 15 days and has been a tradition for thousands of years.

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?

The saffron color in the Indian flag symbolizes strength and courage; the white symbolizes truth and peace; and the green represents the fertility of the land.

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 more than 200 volcanoes!

Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia has one of the fastest-growing populations of students leaving to study abroad, fueled by scholarships offered by the Saudi Arabian Cultural Mission.

Foreign workers in Saudi Arabia compose a large portion of the workforce.

Did you know?

Saudi Arabia is the largest country in the world without a river, the majority of its water supply comes from desalinated seawater.

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 also is becoming a top business school destination.

Did you know?

The world's first nocturnal zoo, the Night Safari, is located in Singapore.

South Korea

In the country where the martial art of Taekwondo originated, South Korean universities provide abundant arts and sciences programs.

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

Did you know?

South Korea is home to the Cheomseongdae Observatory, one of the oldest astronomical laboratories in the world.

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 U.S. 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

Every university in Australia accepts TOEFL scores for admission.

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

Did you know?

More than 80 percent of Australia's animals are unique to the country, including the koala, kangaroo, dingo, platypus, wallaby and wombat.

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 also are 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

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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 (revised TOEFL^® Paper-delivered Test) in a few places where testing via the internet is not available.

Sections

The TOEFL iBT^® test has four sections and is taken on a computer at secure, authorized test centers. The convenient structure allows you to take the test in about 3 hours, instead of over two days.

Section	Time	No. of Questions	Overview
Reading	54—72 minutes	30—40 questions	Read passages, then respond to questions
Listening	41—57 minutes	28—39 questions	Listen to lectures or a classroom discussion, then respond to questions
BREAK	10 minutes
Speaking	17 minutes	4 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.