Introduction to the
TOEFL
TOEFL- The Test of English as a
Foreign Language evaluates general English proficiency and is
required for admission to over 2400 American and Canadian
colleges and universities. It s now also widely accepted by
institutions in other countries where English is the language of
instruction, including most UK universities and colleges.
TOEFL is different from exams like the First Certificate or the
LCCI exams in that you do not pass or fail it. Instead you get a
score which reflects your overall ability in English. The higher
your score, the better your level. An employer or university for
example may insist on a minimum score before confirming your
appointment to a job or your place on a course of study.
Internet-based Test for TOEFL (IBT)
The Computer-based Test (CBT) and Paper-based Test (PBT) are
being replaced by an Internet-based test (iBT). It is being
introduced in phases, with the United States, Canada, France,
Germany, and Italy in 2005 and the rest of the world in 2006. A
Speaking section has been added, thus removing the necessity for
a separate speaking assessment.
TOEFL Scoring System
Three subscores are obtained, each of which is given on a 0-30
scale: Listening, Structure/Writing (combined), and Reading.
These subscores are averaged to obtain the final score, which is
in a 0-300 scale. The Writing score is also reported separately,
on a 0-6 scale.