TOEFL CBT (Computer-based test)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it necessary to be familiar with computers to take the test?

Yes. Taking a test on computer is very different from taking one on paper, and you need to be prepared. Even people who work with computers every day could have difficulties taking a test on computer.

Is the format of the computer-based TOEFL* different from the format of the paper-based version?

Yes. A major difference is that the computer-based TOEFL includes a required essay. In addition, there are several new types of listening comprehension and reading comprehension questions on the CBT which are not on the paper-based test.

What else is different on the computer TOEFL?

On the paper-based test, score is determined by the total number of correct answers. On the Listening Comprehension and Structure sections of the CBT, the difficulty level of the questions answered correctly is used to determine score.

What are some of the benefits to taking the TOEFL on computer?

With computer testing, you can register for a day and time that is convenient for you. You also receive your scores much faster-an estimated score appears right after the test is completed, and the official score is available two weeks later.

Are there any disadvantages to taking the TOEFL on computer?

The computer-based test only shows you one question at a time, so you are not able to skip around and answer easy questions first. Once you click on the "Confirm Answer" button, you are not able to go back and change an answer as you can on the paper-based test.

Understanding Your Score

Right after you finish the computer-based TOEFL, you'll have the option of either viewing your scores on the computer screen where you've taken the test or canceling your test scores. Once you view your scores, they become "official" and you cannot cancel them. If you cancel your scores, you'll have to wait until the next calendar month to retake the TOEFL.

What about my essay scores?
Good question. You are able to see your final scores for the Listening and Reading sections. But the Structure & Written Expression section score and total TOEFL score you see right after the test will only be in score ranges, because the computer can not evaluate your essay. These ranges cover the possible final Structure & Written Expression and overall TOEFL scores you could get, depending on how good (or bad) your essay is.

How is the test scored?
The essay written in the Writing section will be graded by two readers on a scale ranging from 0 to 6. The essay score is then combined with the score for the Structure section. You will then receive two types of scores for the CBT. A scaled score between 0 and 30 will be given for the Listening Comprehension, Structure, and Reading Comprehension sections. These three scores are then combined and translated into a total score that ranges between 0 and 300.

You get your essay scores and final scores on a printed score report that will be mailed to you about two weeks after the test.

What is a good score?
There is no "passing" or "failing" score on the TOEFL. The test only measures your English language proficiency. Individual colleges and universities set their own TOEFL score standards for admission. Scores can range from a low of 133 to a high of 267 or more. A score of 300 is considered perfect.

What does my TOEFL score mean?
Your TOEFL score measures your English proficiency level. The chart below shows what various scores mean.

	TOEFL CBT Scores and Proficiency
	Score	Proficiency Level	Description
	83	Elementary	basic, simple conversations
	133	Intermediate	-initiates conversation -emerging grammar skills -can read simple texts
	213	Working	meet routine social demands
	267	Advanced	approaching native proficiency

How long are TOEFL scores valid?
ETS keeps TOEFL scores on file for two years, although university admissions officers may require or prefer a recent exam taken within the last six months to a year. After two years, you won't be able to order official score reports for a test from ETS.