Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is one of the most popular English language proficiency tests taken by non-native speakers willing to enroll in colleges/universities in English-speaking countries. The TOEFL registration is done by students who are planning to pursue higher education abroad.
It is recommended that students register 3 to 4 months in advance to experience a better chance of reserving the right test location and date. Walk-in registrations are not permitted at examination centers. International students can appear for the test by registering themselves through the official website, by phone, or mail.
Table of Contents
- Understanding TOEFL Exam
- TOEFL Registration Process
- Download free guides for TOEFL preparation
- Things to Keep in Mind Before Registering
- TOEFL Exam Registration Deadlines
- Fees and Payment Options
- TOEFL Registration Fee: Mode of Payment
- Selecting Test Center and Date
- What to Bring on Test Day
- After Giving Exam
- Conclusion
- Popular Study Abroad Destinations
Understanding TOEFL Exam
The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is a standardized exam designed to assess the English language proficiency of non-native speakers. It is a key admission requirement for international students seeking acceptance to undergraduate and graduate programs in universities and other higher education institutions in English-speaking countries.
Administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS), TOEFL is offered in two formats: Internet-based Test (iBT) and Paper-based Test (PBT). The former is more common. TOEFL evaluates the following four key language skills of the candidate:
- Reading: The reading section consists of passages and you have to answer the questions related to those. It evaluates your ability to read and understand academic materials.
- Listening: In this section, you have to listen to recorded brief lectures or classroom discussions and answer the questions. This is to test your ability to understand communication in English.
- Speaking: You have to talk about a topic of your choice and discuss material you read and heard. This is to assess your ability to speak in English.
- Writing: In this section, you have to read a passage, listen to a recording, and write your response. Also, state and support your opinion in a virtual classroom discussion. This test checks your ability to present clear ideas in a well-structured manner through writing.
The total score of the TOEFL iBT is 120, with a maximum of 30 points in each section. Scores are valid for two years from the test date. Preparation for the TOEFL involves honing academic English skills through practice tests, study guides, and language courses.
TOEFL Registration Process
TOEFL exam registration should be done four months prior to the examination date, as walk-in registrations are not allowed. Photo ID proofs like passports are compulsory while registering. Here’s the complete guide to registering for the TOEFL exam through different modes of registration:
1. Registration Through Official Website
Registration through the official website is the easiest way to register for the TOEFL examination. Students can register through the TOEFL official website by creating an ETS account. When students choose to apply online, they can register without any time obligations. Also, students can access the map options to reach the test centers.
Find below the detailed steps of TOEFL registration through the online mode with an ETS account:
- Visit the official website, or download the TOEFL application to get started
- Create an ETS account: Students need to create an account by filling up the form with all the details mentioned in the photo ID proof. If students are using a National ID or passport, the name, date of birth, address, and parent’s name should be in the same order as mentioned in the ID. After filing the details, students need to set up a username and a password. It is recommended to use a password with numeric, alphabet, and special characters to make it a strong one. Submit the password and username.
- Select the examination center, date, and time: Select a particular date out of all the dates that are mentioned for the examination. Students applying for a specific date will find all the available examination centers near them. The examination center should be chosen as per the convenience of students. Set a time as suitable.
- Select the examination center, date, and time: Select a particular date out of all the dates that are mentioned for examination. Students applying for a specific date will find all the available examination centers near them. The examination center should be chosen as per the convenience of students. Set a time as suitable.
- Complete the online registration process: Complete the registration by selecting the test recipient and then make the payment of $190. The payment should be done through approved modes of payment like credit cards, debit cards, or any net banking mode. Students can also purchase the test preparation modules and sample papers for practice.
2. Registration Through Phone
TOEFL exam registration by phone can be done until 5 pm as per local test center timing. It is applicable only for working days, and the weekends are off.
- Students registering seven days before the date of examination need to pay a late fine of $40.
- Keep the photo ID proof handy to deliver the information as asked over the call to initiate the registration.
- Students can download the online registration form so that they already know what information is needed over the call.
- Students need to call their Regional Registration Center (RRC) and get the phone number of the testing center where they will appear for the TOEFL examination.
- The registration will be initiated over the call, where the students need to confirm the test center, date, and timing. All information related to name, date of birth, local address, parents’ name, and address should be in sync with the photo ID that the students will carry with them to the examination center.
- Payment can be done through electronic cheque, credit card, debit card, net banking, and any other approved mode of payment.
3. Registration Through Email
- To register through an Email ID, students need to first download the registration form which is available in PDF format.
- Students need to manually enter some specific codes like Department codes, Country codes, and Native Language codes on the form or contact their test center or institution if they are unable to find the right codes.
- The filled-in form with payment should be mailed to the respective Regional Registration Center (RRC) by visiting the site of the RRC and entering the specific test center.
- The forms should reach the destination address at least four weeks before the test date.
- If students don’t receive any confirmation through e-mail, then they should contact the address they have mailed the form to at least three days before the TOEFL exam registration deadline.
Things to Keep in Mind Before Registering
- Know about the fees, payment policies, and accepted forms of payment.
- Ensure that the name of the candidate matches the name on the identification proof.
- Students taking the TOEFL iBT Home Edition or Paper Edition have to meet the Equipment and Environment Requirements for taking the test at home.
- ETS also caters to applicants with disabilities or health-related needs. Students can download the necessary bulletins and forms to acquaint themselves with registration procedures and available Disability Accommodations.
TOEFL Exam Registration Deadlines
Students are generally recommended to register for TOEFL at least four months before the desired date of examination. Listed below are the TOEFL exam registration deadlines.
- Regular registration: 7 days before the date of examination
- Rescheduling of the test: 4 days ahead of the test date (with a fee of $60)
- Late registration: 2 days ahead of the test date (with a fee of $40)
- Cancellation of test: 4 days before the test
Fees and Payment Options
The TOEFL exam comes with various associated fees and offers multiple payment methods to accommodate test-takers. Below is a detailed breakdown of the costs:
TOEFL iBT exam and service fees
Item | Fees |
TOEFL exam fee | US$205 (INR 17103.51) |
Late registration | US$40 (INR 3337.27) |
Rescheduling | US$60 (INR 5005.91) |
Reinstatement of canceled scores | US$20 (INR 1668.64) |
Additional score reports (per institution or agency) | US$25 each (INR 2085.79) |
Speaking or Writing Section score review | US$80 (INR 6674.54) |
Speaking and Writing Section score review | US$160 (INR 13349.08 ) |
Returned payment | US$30 (INR 2502.95) |
TOEFL Registration Fee: Mode of Payment
The TOEFL registration fee is $205. The acceptable methods of payment vary on the method by which the registration is done - online, by phone, or by email. Listed below are the acceptable modes of payment as per every method of registration.
Paper Check or Money Order |
Electronic Check (e-check) |
Credit Card/Debit Card |
PayPal |
|
ETS Account |
|
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Phone |
|
Yes |
Yes |
|
Yes |
|
Yes |
|
Selecting Test Center and Date
When registering for TOEFL iBT, it's crucial to select a test date and center of your convenience from the list given. Aim to schedule your test at least 2 to 3 months before your earliest admissions deadline to ensure your scores are reported on time.
Steps to select a test center and date
1. On the registration page or form, choose the test you want to take:
- TOEFL iBT
- TOEFL iBT Home Edition
2. Choose an area and date range: When you enter your location and choose a date range, you will receive a list of test centers in that area. Note that not all centers are open on all test days. Try a different date range if the center you're looking for isn't on the list.
3. Select your preferred date and test location: Review the available options and choose the date and location that best fits your schedule.
What to Bring on Test Day
To ensure a smooth experience on test day, it’s important to bring the required items and be aware of the regulations.
- For all test takers:
- Valid and acceptable identification:
- Your government-issued original ID with your name, signature, and photograph.
- Accepted IDs: passport, driving license, national ID card
- Personal items:
- Personal items other than ID documents are not allowed in the exam hall.
- Items you bring to the test center may be inspected and/or confiscated.
- Additional for TOEFL iBT Paper Edition takers:
- Email confirmation:
- Bring your email confirmation to the test center.
- You will need your appointment number when filling out the answer sheet.
- Additional requirements for TOEFL iBT Home Edition:
- Screen check:
- A mirror or mobile phone to show the proctor your screen during check-in.
- Note-taking materials:
- One small desktop whiteboard with an erasable marker or
- One blank piece of paper inside a transparent sheet protector with an erasable marker.
- The paper must not be removed from its transparent sheet protector at any time during the test.
After Giving Exam
Once you have completed your TOEFL exam, there are several important steps and considerations regarding receiving your scores, sending them to institutions, and the policies for retaking the exam.
Receiving your Scores
Your TOEFL iBT scores will be available online approximately 4-8 days after you take the test. You can view your scores by logging into your ETS account. You can also choose to get a paper copy, which will be sent to you via mail 11-15 days after the test. For sending the scores, the delivery time is 4-8 business days after the test date. Your scores will include a detailed breakdown of your performance in the reading, listening, speaking, and writing sections.
Sending Scores to Institutions
When you register for the TOEFL exam, you can select up to four institutions or agencies to receive your scores for free. If you need to send your scores to more than four universities, you can request additional score reports paying US$25 for each institution. You can send additional reports via your ETS account. Ensure that you have the correct institution codes and follow the necessary procedures to avoid any delays in the application process.
Retaking the TOEFL Exam: Policies and procedures
If you wish to retake the TOEFL exam, you can do so as many times as you like, but there are specific policies to follow. You must wait at least 3 days before retaking the test. This waiting period allows you to better prepare and improve your skills before attempting the exam again. When planning to retake the test, consider any university application deadlines for your applications and schedule accordingly to ensure your new scores will be reported in time.
Conclusion
The TOEFL exam is an essential evaluation instrument for anyone who wants to prove their English language skills for scholastic or professional purposes. A successful TOEFL score opens doors to education opportunities in various countries. Studying hard and going to the exam with confidence can go a long way toward reaching your personal and professional goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the TOEFL examination?
TOEFL is a leading examination that is designed to test the English language proficiency and ability of international students who do not have English as their first language for study. It is conducted 60 times a year and assesses the ability of students in sections like writing, speaking, reading, and listening skills.
What is the eligibility for the TOEFL exam?
The TOEFL examination has no specific eligibility criteria in terms of age limit, educational qualification, and the number of attempts. It is a language proficiency examination for non-native English-speaking students for higher education. There is no prerequisite or any official eligibility criteria set by ETC (TOEFL conducting body).
What are the important documents for the TOEFL examination?
International students need to have a valid passport or any valid National photo ID proof to appear for the examination. The photo ID proof is used for the registration process and should be carried to the examination center as well.
What is the TOEFL registration number?
TOEFL registration number is the ‘appointment number’ mentioned at the top of the TOEFL iBT score report. The number has a few zeroes in the beginning and is referred to by the universities and other institutions so that they can verify the official test results of the candidate.
How to fill out the TOEFL registration form?
To fill up the TOEFL registration form, students need to mention all the details that are mentioned in the photo ID proof. The name, date of birth, address, and parent’s name should be the same as mentioned in the ID if they are using a national ID or passport. After filling up the form, candidates need to set a username and a password and submit it.
What is the late registration fee for TOEFL?
The TOEFL registration fee is $205. Students failing to meet the deadline need to pay a late registration fee of $40.
How to add universities to the TOEFL test after registration?
To add universities to their TOEFL profile, students need to log in to the ETS account and select the universities from their list of score recipients.
How to cancel TOEFL registration?
A candidate can cancel or change their TOEFL registration four full days before the test date to receive a 50% refund. Students can cancel their TOEFL registration by logging in to their ETS account, or if they had registered by phone, then they should provide the full name and appointment number used while registering.
How to find the TOEFL registration number?
The TOEFL registration number can be found at the top of the TOEFL iBT score report. It is the appointment number which has a few zeroes in the beginning.
What is the national ID in India for TOEFL registration?
The primary identification proof that is preferred in India for TOEFL registration is a valid passport with the candidate’s name and signature. However, now the ETS is also accepting the Aadhar Card.
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