Advantages and disadvantages of TOEFL

Choosing the right English proficiency test is crucial for achieving your academic and professional goals. The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is one of the most widely recognised English proficiency tests globally. It’s designed to evaluate the English language ability of non-native speakers who wish to enrol in English-speaking universities. The test measures all four language skills: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing, providing a comprehensive assessment of a candidate's proficiency.

In order to figure out if TOEFL is the perfect English proficiency test for you, you’ll first need to determine if it aligns with your specific needs and preferences. You can do this by understanding and evaluating its strengths and weaknesses. Take a deep dive into both the benefits and disadvantages of TOEFL, and consider how they match your academic, professional, and personal goals.

The TOEFL test offers several benefits that make it a popular choice for non-native English speakers aiming to study in English-speaking countries. Some of TOEFL benefits include:

Academic focus

TOEFL is specifically designed to measure the English proficiency of non-native speakers in an academic context, making it ideal for university admissions. It focuses on the type of English used in academic settings, ensuring that test-takers are well-prepared for university-level coursework. This emphasis on academic language helps students develop the skills necessary for understanding lectures, reading academic texts, and writing research papers.

Widely accepted in the USA

Many American universities prefer the TOEFL test for admissions. Its widespread acceptance across the USA makes it a reliable choice for students planning to pursue higher education in the country. Being a trusted test by numerous institutions, TOEFL can significantly enhance your chances of getting admitted to your desired university or college in the United States.

Comprehensive assessment

TOEFL’s exam format is designed for a thorough assessment of all four language skills: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing. Each section of the test is designed to measure specific aspects of language proficiency, providing a well-rounded assessment that can accurately reflect a student's abilities.

Online test option

The TOEFL iBT offers the convenience of being taken online from home, providing flexibility and comfort for test-takers. This allows students to complete the exam in a familiar environment without the need to travel to a test centre. Additionally, the online format provides greater scheduling flexibility, making it easier for students to select a test date that suits their availability. Checking the TOEFL schedule early can help you plan accordingly.

Detailed feedback

Test-takers receive detailed score reports that provide a breakdown of their performance in each section. This feedback helps students understand their strengths and areas for improvement, guiding their further study and TOEFL preparation. Detailed feedback can also be useful for educators and advisors who are assisting students in enhancing their English skills.

TOEFL validity

The TOEFL validity period is two years, meaning that your scores are valid for this duration. This allows test-takers to use their results for multiple applications within this timeframe, offering flexibility and convenience when applying to various institutions or programmes.

While the TOEFL test has many benefits and advantages, there are also some drawbacks to consider. Understanding these disadvantages can help you weigh your options and decide if TOEFL is the best fit for your goals.

Slots fill up quickly

Given its popularity, TOEFL test dates fill up quickly, often months in advance. As a widely recognised and accepted English proficiency test, TOEFL attracts a large number of test-takers globally. This high demand means that available slots can be fully booked 2-3 months ahead of the test date. Therefore, it's essential for prospective test-takers to review the TOEFL exam dates and scheduling options in order to plan and register well in advance, securing a convenient testing date and location. Early registration helps avoid the stress of finding an available slot close to your intended test date and ensures ample time to prepare.

 Higher cost

The TOEFL test can be relatively expensive compared to other English proficiency tests, which might be a barrier for some candidates. The TOEFL exam fees, alongside the additional costs for score reports, can add up. This financial burden can be a significant consideration for students and professionals on a tight budget.

Higher stress levels

The TOEFL test is taken in a single session, which can lead to higher stress levels. The pressure to perform well in one sitting can be challenging for some test-takers. This format requires sustained concentration and stamina, which might be difficult for individuals who are not used to lengthy examinations.

Less practical use of language

TOEFL focuses more on academic English, which may not reflect the practical language skills needed in everyday life. This emphasis on academic language can make it less suitable for those seeking to improve their conversational English. If your goal is to enhance your ability to communicate in everyday situations, you might find other tests like IELTS more appropriate.