Four section scores
Reading, Listening, Writing and Speaking are each reported from 1 to 6 in half-point increments.
Updated TOEFL iBT section
TOEFL iBT Scoring
From January 21, 2026, ETS reports section and overall scores on a 1-6 scale, with comparable 0-120 overall information during the transition period.
Current focus
- Four section scoresAvailable for diagnostics and practice.
- Overall 1-6 scoreAligned to the updated task design.
- 0-120 transition informationCan feed later Pathway routing.
Section overview
Start with what this section measures
The guidance below follows the TOEFL iBT design effective January 21, 2026 and explains the tasks, test-day experience, score use and preparation for this section.
Four section scores
Used for targeted practice under the updated format.
Overall 1-6 score
Handled cautiously against current ETS information.
0-120 transition information
Can connect to mock tests and Pathway support.
TOEFL and TOEFL iBT are trademarks of ETS. EduZMS is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or an official partner of ETS.
Format and tasks
Scoring tasks in detail
These are the task types in the current ETS TOEFL iBT design. Item totals and base time may vary as the test adapts.
Overall score
The overall result is the average of the four section scores, rounded to the nearest half band under ETS rules.
Transition reporting
Through January 2028, reports also include a comparable overall estimate on the former 0–120 scale.
Candidate experience
What happens on test day
Understand the sequence, equipment and response conditions for the complete test, not only the isolated task type.
Section order
A complete test runs Reading, Listening, Writing and Speaking in that order. At least one response in every section is required for scores to be reported.
Delivery options
The test is computer-delivered at an authorized test centre; eligible test takers may also use the live-proctored Home Edition.
Test-day experience
Allow about two hours with no scheduled break. Note-taking follows ETS rules; Speaking is recorded by microphone and Writing is typed.
Scoring and results
How results are reported and used
The 1–6 score scale applies from January 21, 2026. Candidates should check both current ETS guidance and the receiving institution’s own requirement.
Current score scale
Each section and the overall result use a 1–6 scale in half-point increments; the overall result is based on the four-section average.
Getting results
ETS currently says scores enter the test taker’s account three days after the test date; official delivery timing also depends on the recipient.
Using a score
Institutions set their own minimums. During transition the report also supplies a comparable legacy overall estimate, so candidates need not convert it themselves.
Preparation
Prepare for the current task design
Start with official examples and the purpose of each task, then classify errors by comprehension, language control, timing and task fulfilment.
Read section profiles
Use the four skill scores to find uneven performance instead of relying only on the overall result.
Check the institution’s rule
Universities set their own total and section requirements and may update from 0–120 at different times.
Do not self-convert
Current official reports already include the 1–6 result and, during transition, a comparable 0–120 overall estimate.
Official ETS sources
Task design, scoring, score timing and test policies can change. Use current ETS pages for registration and preparation decisions.