How are TOEFL iBT test items created?

TOEFL iBT test items are developed through a collaborative effort of researchers, test developers, and psychometricians using a multi step process. AI assisted tools may support development, but all items undergo rigorous human review.

What happens if I quit the test before completing it?

If you don't complete at least one Reading question, one Listening question, one Speaking task and one Writing task, your test will not be scored. In other words, skipping any section means no sections will be scored.

How can I make sure I properly answer the Speaking questions?

Before the test, make sure you understand what the questions will ask and what raters look for. Review the Speaking Section page for additional information and tips.

Can I take notes during the test?

Yes. At a test center, scratch paper and pencils are provided. For testing at home, use a small whiteboard or a blank sheet of paper in a transparent sheet protector with an erasable marker.

Can I use writing assistance software during the test?

Writing assistance software is not permitted during the TOEFL iBT test.

Is there a break during the test?

There are no scheduled breaks during the TOEFL iBT test. Be sure to plan accordingly.

Can I use my phone or other mobile device during the test?

Mobile devices are not permitted during the test. At a test center, devices must be stored with personal items. For Home Edition, your device must be stored after check in.

TOEFL iBT Test Content - A Breakdown of Test Sections

Test Section and Timing Overview

Use the table below to view the breakdown of each TOEFL iBT test section.

Test Section	Task type	Number of items	Approx. Base Time
Reading	Complete the Words Read in Daily Life Read an Academic Passage	50	30
Listening	Listen and Choose a Response Listen to a Conversation Listen to an Announcement Listen to an Academic Talk	47	29
Writing	Build a Sentence Write an Email Write for an Academic Discussion	12	23
Speaking	Listen and Repeat Take an Interview	11	8

Test time does not include directions. Please allow approximately two hours to complete the test. As the test adapts, test time and items may vary.

How to Prepare

Visit our resources hub to prepare for the TOEFL iBT test.

Administration and testing options

The TOEFL iBT test is offered two ways:

TOEFL iBT test: on a computer at an authorized test center
TOEFL iBT Home Edition: on a computer at home, monitored by a live human proctor

Scoring

Receive four section scores, as well as an overall score, on the 1 – 6 scale.
The overall score will be the average of all four sections, rounded to the nearest half band (for example, if the average of a student's section scores is 5.125, they will receive an overall score of 5).
For a two-year transition period after January 2026, students will also receive a comparable overall score on the 0 – 120 scale.
For more details on scoring visit our Score Guidance page.

Test Content and Structure

Test Section and Timing Overview

How to Prepare

Administration and testing options

Scoring

Technical Documents