TOEFL Format

The TOEFL iBT is delivered online. This page summarises section order, timing, variable lengths, and delivery options.

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Section order

The standard order is Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing. A 10-minute break occurs between Listening and Speaking. Check-in and instructions add to the total session time.

  1. Reading — 54–72 minutes
  2. Listening — 41–57 minutes
  3. Break — 10 minutes
  4. Speaking — ~17 minutes
  5. Writing — 50 minutes

Timing

Total test time is approximately 3 hours, including the break and check-in. Speaking and Writing have fixed lengths; Reading and Listening vary because of experimental or adaptive content. Plan for the full session when booking and on test day.

Variable lengths

Reading may include 3 or 4 passages; Listening may include more or fewer lectures and conversations. The extra content is often used for test development (experimental) or, in some administrations, adaptive routing. You cannot tell which items are unscored. Budget time assuming the longer version so you are not rushed if you receive it.

Delivery

The TOEFL iBT is delivered via the internet at authorised test centres. The TOEFL iBT Home Edition is available in many regions and uses a live online proctor. Both versions share the same format and scoring. Paper-based delivery has been discontinued for the standard iBT. Confirm availability and requirements with ETS for your test date and location.

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