Introduction
Preparing for the TOEFL exam is a journey many students and professionals embark on each year. Whether for academic, professional, or personal reasons, understanding TOEFL scores and results is crucial for effective TOEFL preparation. In this article, we will walk you through everything you need to know about TOEFL scores, from how they’re calculated to what counts as a good score.
How is the TOEFL Exam Scored?
The TOEFL exam evaluates your proficiency in English across four areas: reading, listening, speaking, and writing. Each section is scored from 0 to 30, with the total TOEFL score being the sum of these four section scores. This means the highest possible total score is 120.
| Section | Score Range | Method of Scoring | Importance |
| Reading | 0 – 30 | Based on the number of correct answers. No penalty for guessing. | Tests your ability to understand academic texts. Practice regularly to improve. |
| Listening | 0 – 30 | Scored according to the number of correct answers. Guess if you’re not sure. | Measures your ability to understand English as it is spoken in colleges and universities. Focus on improving by listening to English in various contexts. |
| Speaking | 0 – 30 | Responses are rated by certified raters on delivery, language use, and topic development. | Evaluates your spoken English skills. Practice speaking on a wide range of topics to enhance your fluency and coherence. |
| Writing | 0 – 30 | Assessed based on development of ideas, ability to write in English, grammar, and vocabulary. | Tests your ability to write essays in English. Improve by practicing writing on different topics and reviewing grammar and vocabulary. |
Understanding the Scoring for Each Section
Reading and Listening: These sections are scored based on the number of correct answers. There’s no penalty for guessing, so it’s in your best interest to answer every question.
Speaking: Your responses are rated by certified raters, focusing on your delivery, language use, and topic development.
Writing: This section is assessed based on how well you develop your ideas, your ability to write in English, and the correctness of your grammar and vocabulary.
The Importance of Each Section
Each section of the TOEFL exam is critical. To excel, you need to practice regularly, focusing on areas where you can improve. Remember, preparation is key to success in the TOEFL exam.
What is a Good TOEFL Score?
A “good” TOEFL score varies depending on the requirements of the institution or organization you’re applying to. However, a score of 100 or more is generally considered competitive for most universities, especially in English-speaking countries.
Factors Influencing a Good Score
Program Requirements: Some programs might require higher scores in certain sections. For example, a graduate program in English might demand a higher score in the writing and reading sections.
Benchmarking: Researching the average TOEFL scores of admitted students to your target institutions can give you a good benchmark.
How Will You Receive Your TOEFL Scores?
ETS, the organization that administers the TOEFL exam, makes your scores available online approximately ten days after your test date. You will receive an email notification when your scores are ready, and you can view them by logging into your ETS account.
Receiving Your Official Score Reports
Online Scores: Accessible through your ETS account, online scores are the quickest way to know how you did.
Mail: ETS also sends a paper copy of your score report through the mail if you requested it when you registered for the exam.
TOEFL Test Taker Score Report
The TOEFL Test Taker Score Report includes your total score and the scores of each test section. This report gives you and the institutions you’re applying to a detailed view of your English language proficiency.
Understanding Your Score Report
Each section of the TOEFL exam is critical, and understanding your score report can help you identify areas for improvement. Whether for retaking the exam or for personal assessment, this report is a valuable tool in your TOEFL preparation journey.
How long is the TOEFL Score Valid?
When you get your TOEFL scores, it’s important to plan your next steps quickly. TOEFL scores are valid for two years from the date of your test. This means you have a window of time to use these scores for applications to schools and visas.
Why Only Two Years?
Languages change, and so does your proficiency in them. ETS believes that a two-year validity period accurately reflects your current English skills. It encourages test-takers to either use their scores while they are fresh or retake the exam if more time has passed.
Planning Your Applications
Knowing that your scores are valid for two years, you should start applying to universities or jobs soon after you get your results. This strategy ensures that your scores don’t expire before you’ve had the chance to use them for your applications.
What Happens When Scores Expire?
Once your scores expire, you can’t use them for official applications anymore. If you need TOEFL scores for an application and your previous scores have expired, you’ll need to retake the exam.
TOEFL iBT Scores Percentile Rank
| Total Scale Score | Percentile Rank |
| 120 | 100 |
| 116 | 99 |
| 112 | 96 |
| 108 | 92 |
| 104 | 86 |
| 100 | 78 |
| 96 | 70 |
| 92 | 61 |
| 88 | 53 |
| 84 | 45 |
| 80 | 38 |
| 76 | 31 |
| 72 | 25 |
| 68 | 20 |
| 64 | 16 |
| 60 | 13 |
| 56 | 10 |
| 52 | 8 |
| 48 | 6 |
| 44 | 4 |
| 40 | 3 |
| 36 | 2 |
| 32 | 1 |
| 28 | 1 |
| 24 | – |
| 20 | – |
| 16 | – |
| 12 | – |
| 8 | – |
| 4 | – |
| 0 | – |
Understanding your percentile rank can give you more insight into how your TOEFL scores compare to those of other test takers. A percentile rank shows the percentage of test takers who scored lower than you did. It helps you see where you stand in the larger pool of candidates.
What Does the Percentile Rank Mean?
If your percentile rank is 80, it means you scored better than 80% of the people who took the TOEFL. This can be very encouraging and can also help you understand the competitiveness of your score.
How to Use This Information
Your percentile rank can be a helpful tool when deciding on which universities to apply to. If you have a high percentile rank, you might consider applying to more competitive programs. It’s also useful for identifying areas where you might need improvement.
The Importance of Context
While your percentile rank is important, remember that each university and program has its own score requirements. Always check the specific requirements of the places you’re applying to.
Key TakeAways
1. Scoring Overview: The TOEFL exam is scored across four sections: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing, each with a score range of 0-30, totaling a maximum score of 120.
2. No Penalty for Guessing: In the Reading and Listening sections, there’s no penalty for incorrect answers, encouraging test-takers to attempt every question.
3. Certified Raters for Speaking and Writing: The Speaking and Writing sections are assessed by certified raters who evaluate based on delivery, language use, topic development, grammar, and vocabulary.
4. Good Score Varies: What constitutes a “good” TOEFL score can vary significantly depending on the institution’s or program’s requirements, but generally, scores above 100 are considered competitive.
5. Score Validity: TOEFL scores are valid for two years from the test date, emphasizing the importance of timely applications to universities or other institutions.
6. Percentile Ranks Provide Context: Your percentile rank, indicating the percentage of test-takers who scored lower than you, offers additional insight into how competitive your score is.
7. Importance of Each Section: Every section of the TOEFL exam is crucial, requiring balanced preparation to achieve a high overall score.
8. Receiving Scores: Scores are available online approximately ten days post-exam, with options to receive official score reports via mail if requested.
9. Score Report Details: The TOEFL Test Taker Score Report includes detailed scores for each section, aiding in identifying strengths and areas for improvement.
10. Strategic Preparation Is Key: Regular and focused preparation, tailored to improve in weaker areas while maintaining strengths, is essential for success on the TOEFL exam.
FAQ
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What is the TOEFL exam?
The TOEFL exam is a test that measures your English language skills. It’s often needed for studying in English-speaking countries.
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How many sections are in the TOEFL exam?
There are four sections: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing.
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What is the highest score I can get on the TOEFL?
The highest total score you can get is 120, with each section scored out of 30.
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How do I know if my TOEFL score is good?
A good TOEFL score depends on the requirements of the university or program you’re applying to. Generally, a score above 100 is considered good.
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How long does it take to get my TOEFL scores?
You can see your scores online about ten days after your test date.
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Can I retake the TOEFL if I’m not happy with my score?
Yes, you can retake the TOEFL as many times as you like, but you have to wait at least three days between tests.
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How long are my TOEFL scores valid?
TOEFL scores are valid for two years from your test date.
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Do universities prefer TOEFL scores from a specific time frame?
Most universities will accept scores as long as they are valid (within two years from the test date).
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What should I do if my TOEFL scores are about to expire?
If you’re applying to universities or programs, make sure to do so before your scores expire. If they expire, you’ll need to retake the test.
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How can I improve my TOEFL score?
Practice each section regularly, focus on areas where you need improvement, and consider using TOEFL preparation materials or courses to help you prepare.
In conclusion, learning English for the TOEFL test is a journey that opens many doors. Remember, every step you take in learning and practicing English helps you get closer to your goal. Just like understanding science for the SAT, mastering English for the TOEFL is about building strong skills.
Do not worry if English seems hard at first. With regular practice and determination, you will get better. Read books, listen to English songs, watch movies in English, and try to speak and write in English every day. These activities will improve your language skills.
Remember, every effort you make counts. Keep your goal in mind, stay motivated, and practice as much as you can. With time and effort, you can achieve a good score in TOEFL and move forward in your academic and professional journey. Good luck, and believe in yourself!