The TOEFL test score system depends on what type of TOEFL you take. There are two different kinds of TOEFL offered: the paper-based test (PBT) and the internet-based test (iBT). Ninety-seven percent of all TOEFL test are iBT, so this is the exam you're most likely to take. PBTs are issued only where there is no internet testing available.
The TOEFL test score is based on the test taker's performance on the items in the test. You should try and answer one question each in the Reading and Listening categories, compose at least one essay, and perform at least one speaking activity to obtain an official score. For the TOEFL iBT exam, conducted over the Internet, you will earn four scaled portion scores and an overall score:
TOEFL Score Scale | ||
Section | Score Range | Level |
Listening | 0β30 | Advanced: 22β30 High-Intermediate: 17β21 Low-Intermediate: 9β16 Below Low-Intermediate: 0β8: |
Reading | 0β30 | Advanced: 24β30 High-Intermediate: 18β23 Low-Intermediate: 4β17 Below Low-Intermediate: 0β3 |
Speaking | 0β30 | Advanced: 25β30 High-Intermediate: 20β24 Low-Intermediate: 16β19 Basic: 10β15 Below Basic: 0β9 |
Writing | 0β30 | Advanced: 24β30 High-Intermediate: 17β23 Low-Intermediate: 13β16 Basic: 7β12 Below Basic: 0β6 |
TOEFL total score | 0β120 | |
For the TOEFL PBT test, scoring is different. The PBT test has three sections: reading comprehension, listening comprehension, and structure and written expression. Your raw PBT scores are converted into scaled sectional scores. The scaled score for the reading comprehension section is between 31 and 67. On the other hand, scaled scores for listening comprehension and structure and written expression are reported from 31 to 68, respectively. The raw PBT score is the sum of these sectional scores, multiplied by 10 and divided by 3, to get a TOEFL score range for PBT of 310 to 677.
TOEFL send scores approximately 3 to 6 weeks after you take the TOEFL PBT test via mail. TOEFL test score report for the TOEFL iBT test will be available 10 days after taking the test via online as a PDF file. You will also get a paper copy of your TOEFL rating statement via mail 3 to 6 weeks after the test date.
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The TOEFL test score range for the iBT is between 0 and 120 throughout the whole test and between 0 and 30 for each section. That being said, the lowest TOEFL score you can have for on the iBT is 0, while the highest score is 120.
The TOEFL score range on the PBT is 310 to 677, which means that the lowest TOEFL PBT score is 310, and the highest is 677.
TOEFL Total Raw Score | TOEFL Score Percentile |
120 | 100 |
116 | 99 |
112 | 96 |
108 | 92 |
104 | 87 |
100 | 80 |
96 | 72 |
88 | 56 |
84 | 48 |
80 | 41 |
76 | 34 |
72 | 28 |
68 | 22 |
64 | 18 |
60 | 14 |
56 | 11 |
52 | 8 |
48 | 6 |
44 | 4 |
40 | 3 |
36 | 2 |
32 | 1 |
28 | 1 |
24 | β |
Test Section | Average Score |
Listening | 20.2 |
Reading | 20.5 |
Speaking | 20.4 |
Writing | 20.9 |
Total Average TOEFL Score | 82 |
Some universities that accept TOEFL scores of 75 or below are listed below:
Each school will vary on the required scores allowed, but the average TOEFL passing score to be aimed is about 21 points per portion, for a total of 84 points or more. This examination will include reading, listening, speaking, and writing sections.
Prepare for the TOEFL - Test of English as a Foreign Language exam with our free practice test modules. Each quiz covers key topics to help you pass on your first try.
TOEFL ratings are valid for two years from the date of the exam. This implies that if you take the TOEFL on May 1st, 2026, your score is valid till May 1st, 2026. If you apply to colleges, you may only use valid TOEFL ratings.
While you may find it annoying that TOEFL ratings are only applicable for 2 years, ETS does so to ensure that it offers up-to-date information to schools so those schools can determine exactly whether you'd be able to succeed in their classes. It's also because language skills can shift significantly over a relatively short amount of time.
No, you can't use the TOEFL score from 10 years ago since the TOEFL score is only good for 2 years.
You may check your TOEFL scores online by signing in to your ETS account and clicking "View Scores and Score Recipients" on your homepage to show your ratings. Then click "View Scores." See the date list (PDF) for an estimation of when you will be able to access your ratings.
Yes, however, obtaining a perfect TOEFL score is very unlikely. You would need scores of 30 on each section of the test to score 120 on the TOEFL. Remember that since section scores are weighted, it may be possible to miss an item or two in a segment and still get a TOEFL maximum score of 30.
More than 10,000 universities in more than 150 countries accept TOEFL ratings. Other organizations also rely on TOEFL scores:
The TOEFL iBT exam features four sections: Reading (20 questions), Listening (28 questions), Speaking (4 tasks), and Writing (2 tasks). Each section is scored from 0-30, contributing to a total score range of 0-120. Your performance across these sections determines your overall TOEFL Score, reflecting your English language proficiency for academic and professional settings.
The TOEFL iBT is indeed challenging, especially for non-native English speakers, as it rigorously assesses academic English skills required for university environments. Success hinges on extensive preparation, understanding the exam format, and consistent practice in all four sections. Many test-takers find the integrated tasks particularly demanding, requiring simultaneous use of multiple language skills.
To pass the TOEFL iBT on your first attempt, focus on a structured study plan that includes mastering time management for each section. Practice effective note-taking for Listening and Speaking, develop strong essay templates for Writing, and engage in regular speaking practice. Utilizing official TOEFL practice tests and understanding the scoring rubrics are crucial for achieving your target TOEFL Score.
The TOEFL iBT exam cost for 2026 typically ranges from $180 to $325 USD, varying significantly by country and region. Additional fees may apply for late registration, rescheduling, or score reviews. Always check the official ETS website for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing specific to your location, as costs can fluctuate.
You can find FREE TOEFL iBT practice tests online at PracticeTestGeeks.com, offering comprehensive questions and answers to help you prepare. The official ETS website also provides free sample questions and full-length practice tests. Additionally, many educational platforms and university resources offer valuable free materials to help you prepare effectively for your TOEFL Score exam.