Overview of TOEFL test

If you are planning to study, work, or live abroad from Singapore, demonstrating your English proficiency is often a crucial step. One of the most recognised and respected tests for this purpose is the TOEFL, or Test of English as a Foreign Language. This comprehensive exam measures the English language skills of non-native speakers, helping them meet admissions requirements for universities and other institutions in English-speaking countries.

The TOEFL exam is trusted by over 11,000 institutions worldwide, making it a preferred choice for students, professionals, and immigrants from Singapore who need to prove their English proficiency.

Join us as we explore why this exam is preferred and how it can help you achieve your goals.

The TOEFL test assesses your Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing abilities in English. It is designed to evaluate how well you combine these skills to perform academic tasks. Here’s an overview of the TOEFL exam format:

Reading

The Reading section of the TOEFL exam consists of 3-4 passages from academic texts, each followed by a series of 10 questions. This part of the test measures your ability to understand and analyse written material. You will encounter questions that require you to identify main ideas, infer meanings, and summarise information, simulating the type of reading and comprehension you will need for university-level coursework.

Listening

In the Listening section, you will listen to lectures, classroom discussions, and conversations and then answer questions based on what you heard. This section evaluates your ability to understand spoken English in an academic setting. You will need to identify the main ideas, recognise the speaker's attitude and purpose, and understand detailed information, all of which are crucial skills for engaging in academic discussions and comprehending lectures.

Speaking

The Speaking section involves four tasks that require you to speak about familiar topics, as well as respond to material you read and listen to. This part tests your ability to express your ideas clearly and coherently in spoken English. You will perform tasks such as stating an opinion, summarising information from a reading passage and a listening section and answering questions about your personal experiences.

Writing

In the Writing section, you will complete two tasks: an integrated task that requires you to write an essay based on what you read and listen, and an independent task that asks you to write an essay based on personal experience or opinion. This section measures your ability to construct well-organised and grammatically correct written responses.

Understanding the structure of the TOEFL exam is crucial for effective preparation. By familiarising yourself with the format and types of questions, you can develop strategies to perform well in each section.

The TOEFL exam was introduced in 1964 by the Educational Testing Service (ETS) to provide a standardised measure of English language proficiency for non-native speakers. Initially offered as a paper-based test, the TOEFL has evolved significantly over the decades.

In 2005, the TOEFL transitioned to an internet-based format (TOEFL iBT), which is now the primary method of administration. This change allowed for a more flexible and comprehensive assessment of a test-taker's language skills. The TOEFL iBT includes integrated tasks that measure all four language skills: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing, providing a more accurate reflection of a test-taker's ability to use English in an academic context.

Over time, periodic updates have been made to the test to reflect changes in English usage and advances in testing technology. These updates ensure that the TOEFL remains a relevant and reliable measure of English proficiency, adapting to the evolving needs of educational institutions and test-takers.

Today, the TOEFL is one of the most widely accepted English proficiency tests globally, recognised by institutions and organisations in more than 150 countries.

The TOEFL exam is accepted by over 11,000 universities and institutions worldwide, including prestigious universities in the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom. Its comprehensive assessment of language skills makes it a preferred choice for many institutions.

In the United States, TOEFL scores are used by nearly every university for admissions purposes. Canadian institutions also widely accept TOEFL scores, and it is the preferred English language test for student visas in Australia and New Zealand. In the United Kingdom, many universities recognise TOEFL scores for undergraduate and postgraduate admissions.

The TOEFL test is also used for immigration purposes in several countries, providing a reliable measure of English proficiency for visa applications. Its global recognition and rigorous assessment make it a trusted choice for proving English language skills for migration.

When deciding between the TOEFL and IELTS, it’s important to understand the key differences between these two leading English proficiency tests.

Test structure

TOEFL is primarily an internet-based test (iBT) that includes sections on Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing, all conducted on a computer. In contrast, IELTS offers both Academic and General Training tests and includes a face-to-face Speaking section. This section of the IELTS allows test-takers to interact with a human examiner, providing a more personalised assessment of speaking skills.

Acceptance and recognition

Both TOEFL and IELTS are accepted by thousands of institutions worldwide. TOEFL is recognised by over 11,000 organisations in more than 150 countries, while IELTS is recognised by over 12,000 organisations in more than 150 countries. IELTS is often preferred for UK and Australian immigration purposes due to its comprehensive assessment and recognition by local authorities.

Test format

IELTS offers both paper-based and computer-delivered formats, while TOEFL is primarily delivered online. The choice between these tests often depends on the test-taker's preference for the test format and the specific requirements of the institutions they are applying to.

While TOEFL’s modern approach is gaining traction, IELTS remains the gold standard for those seeking wide acceptance and a thorough evaluation process, especially for Singaporean test takers aiming to study, work, or immigrate abroad.

At IDP Singapore, we provide essential information and support to help you succeed in the right English proficiency test for your academic and professional aspirations. From grammar basics to advanced vocabulary, we are here to guide you through the process and help you achieve your goals.

Call us at +65 9152 1436 to get started!