The TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language Internet-Based Test) is the most widely used method of certifying a non-native English speaker’s ability to speak, read, write, and understand the English language. International students seeking to gain admission to a university in an English-speaking country are the primary test-takers for the TOEFL iBT. In the UK and Australia, the TOEFL is even used to satisfy the requirements for certain visas (such as student visas). Since it’s accepted by over 9,000 educational institutions in 130 countries, the TOEFL has been taken by over 30 million people.
While the TOEFL is crucial to gain admittance into many universities, it’s also a great tool to prepare students who aren’t fluent in the English language for the rigors of studying at an English-speaking university. Unfortunately, many students struggle to get scores that are high enough to be accepted by the universities they wish to attend, and they must retake the test multiple times. Not only can that be demoralizing, but it’s also expensive – the test costs $160 – $250 with the average at about $200 each time it’s taken.
To assess your ability to communicate, the test is divided into four sections, namely the Listening, Reading, Speaking, and Writing which extend over the duration of four and a half hours. As a test taker, you will be required to solve integrated tasks that combine more than one skill.
Combining All 4 Skills: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing
During the test, you are asked to perform tasks that combine your English communication skills, such as:
● Read, listen and then speak in response to a question
● Listen and then speak in response to a question
● Read, listen and then write in response to a question
