TOEFL Exam 2025: Syllabus, Registration, Pattern, Cut Off for 2025

TOEFL Exam 2025 with our comprehensive guide on syllabus, registration, exam pattern, and cut-off scores. Start your journey to success.

The complete name of TOEFL is the Test of English as a Foreign Language. The TOEFL exam stands out as one of the most commonly recognized tests for evaluating English language proficiency among individuals aiming to pursue studies overseas. This examination structure consists of four components: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing.

The purpose of the TOEFL exam is to evaluate the reading, listening, writing, and speaking skills of test participants in an academic context. The TOEFL exam structure for 2025 will remain unchanged from previous years. The overall time allotted for the TOEFL test is 116 minutes, and test scores range between 0 and 120. In total, there are 48 questions plus an additional 6 tasks in the TOEFL exam.

For students aspiring to attend a university in an English-speaking nation, the TOEFL exam is a crucial aspect of their application process. Candidates must register for the TOEFL exam by choosing an appropriate date and time at the nearest testing center and paying a fee of INR 16,900.

This article will discuss the TOEFL exam pattern for those planning to take the test. Below, you will find answers to frequently asked questions concerning the latest TOEFL exam structure for 2025.

Exam Name	TOEFL
Full Form	Test of English as a Foreign Language
Official Website	ETS TOEFL
Conducting Body	ETS (Educational Testing Service)
Widely Popular As	English language proficiency test
Generally Accepted By	Universities in the USA and Canada
Mode of Exam	TOEFL iBT (Internet-based test) and TOEFL Home Edition. Paper-based tests have been discontinued.
TOEFL Exam Fees	₹16,900 INR
Score Range	Reading: 0–30 Listening: 0–30 Speaking: 0–30 Writing: 0–30
Registration Link	TOEFL Exam Registration
India Helpline	1-800-123-9418 Support available 7 days a week (8 am to 8 pm IST). Recorded information available 24/7.

What is the TOEFL Exam?

The Test of English as a Foreign Language, commonly referred to as TOEFL, is a prominent assessment utilized to gauge the English skills of individuals whose first language isn’t English. The exam features a clear structure that evaluates performance across four essential areas: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing.

Numerous scholarships come into play after you pass the TOEFL exam, aiding students with job opportunities overseas and assisting with the visa application procedures. The TOEFL test can be taken in a format that is delivered via computer, referred to as the TOEFL iBT, or internet-based test. Individuals who wish to take the TOEFL will need to pay a fee of ₹16,900 INR for both the TOEFL iBT and the TOEFL iBT Home Edition. The paper version of the TOEFL is no longer offered to students in India.

TOEFL Full Form

The TOEFL is administered by ETS, with the acronym standing for Test of English as a Foreign Language. The TOEFL is recognized by institutions and visa-issuing authorities in more than 160 countries, and the exam evaluates candidates on a scale from 0 to 120 across their English skills in speaking, writing, listening, and reading for academic purposes.

What is TOEFL iBT?

TOEFL iBT refers to the internet-based iteration of the TOEFL test that candidates use to take their examinations online. This version of the TOEFL is favored due to its convenience and lower resource demands. Authorized testing centers are located in major cities across the country to facilitate these TOEFL exams, with TOEFL iBT being the most popular choice, accounting for approximately 98% of TOEFL testing worldwide.

What is TOEFL Test on Paper?

The TOEFL Test on Paper has been phased out. ETS has reintroduced the TOEFL iBT Test on Paper in select countries. This version assesses the same four skills but is administered using paper and involves two testing formats. The TOEFL Reading, Listening, and Writing components can only be completed on paper at designated centers, while the Speaking section must be conducted at home on a personal computer, which is supervised online by a human proctor within three days of completing the paper sections.

TOEFL Registration

As per the most recent information shared by ETS, individuals taking the test will experience a more straightforward registration procedure for the TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language Internet-Based Test). They can swiftly set up an account and select a preferred test date. For the first occasion, prices will be listed in Indian rupees, streamlining the process for those in India.

Test takers can now sign up as far as six months ahead and have the flexibility to alter their exam date, time, or venue up to four days before the scheduled test without incurring any fees. The newly enhanced TOEFL registration platform also allows candidates to browse and compare available testing dates and times across different centers, aiding them in choosing an option that aligns with their timetable.

These enhancements offer candidates greater flexibility in planning and preparing for the examination while improving the registration experience.

• Requests for rescheduling must be made before 11:59 p.m. local time on the day prior to the original test date.

• No charges will apply during this timeframe.

• The official TOEFL exam website now has refreshed versions of free practice assessments and study resources.

• Additional free and paid preparation tools will be introduced in the upcoming weeks to align with these updates.

• Exercise caution in selecting your TOEFL test centers.

TOEFL Exam Eligibility

TOEFL iBT is available in over 200 nations and is recognized by more than 13,000 educational institutions globally. To enroll for the examination, candidates must meet specific eligibility requirements. The minimum age requirement is 18 years old those younger than this must provide a form indicating parental consent.

For individuals opting for the home edition, they must adhere to the stipulated environment and equipment criteria.

• Age Restriction: Candidates must be at least 18 years old; those under this age need to provide parental consent.

• Education: A completion of the 10+2 academic level from an accredited board is required.

• Identification: A current government-issued ID is necessary.

TOEFL Exam 2025

TOEFL is a test that evaluates a student’s command of the English language, designed for institutions overseas to measure language capabilities. It can also be described as a globally recognized assessment managed by ETS, enabling Indian students to pursue their studies abroad.

Typically, ETS administers the TOEFL examination in most major Indian cities on a monthly basis throughout the year, which facilitates the process for candidates to reserve their exam slots after reviewing available dates in their chosen locations and centers. Candidates who prefer to take the TOEFL exam from home have the flexibility to do so at any time, as it is accessible 24/7, including all seven days of the week.

They can schedule their test just 24 hours after registering for the exam. Prior to starting the registration for the TOEFL exam, individuals can verify the availability of dates at their preferred testing site and center. Following this, they should ensure that their system meets all necessary specifications and that their surroundings conform to the requirements set by the TOEFL exam.

After confirming these aspects, candidates can continue with the registration process for the TOEFL exam. When scheduling the TOEFL English proficiency exam, candidates have the flexibility to select their preferred testing time, whether in the morning or evening.

Additionally, the TOEFL exam requires aspirants to input their personal information as it appears on their identification documents, such as an Aadhar card or passport. Therefore, it is recommended that candidates always enter accurate information, particularly the spelling of their names exactly as it appears on their official documents during the registration phase.

TOEFL Exam Dates

In order to take the TOEFL, candidates need to register ahead of time according to the available test dates. In 2025, TOEFL is set to provide approximately 50 test dates throughout the year. Test takers can opt for either in-person testing at a center or the online Home Edition monitored remotely. Below are the revised 2025 TOEFL test dates for key cities:

City	January Exam Dates	February Exam Dates	March Exam Dates
Delhi	03, 06, 10, 14, 20, 27	01, 07, 12, 17, 24, 28	03, 08, 12, 17, 23, 30
Hyderabad	04, 08, 12, 15, 19, 25	05, 09, 14, 21, 26, 29	06, 11, 15, 19, 25, 31
Mumbai	02, 06, 10, 14, 21, 26	03, 07, 13, 18, 22, 27	04, 09, 13, 18, 24, 30
Chennai	03, 05, 11, 15, 19, 27	04, 08, 12, 17, 21, 28	05, 10, 14, 20, 25, 31
Kolkata	05, 09, 13, 17, 23, 28	06, 11, 15, 19, 24, 29	07, 12, 16, 22, 26, 31
Bengaluru	03, 06, 10, 14, 20, 25	02, 06, 10, 16, 21, 27	05, 11, 15, 19, 23, 29
Pune	04, 07, 11, 16, 22, 28	05, 08, 13, 18, 22, 28	06, 10, 14, 18, 24, 30
Lucknow	03, 08, 13, 18, 23	06, 11, 16, 20, 25	08, 12, 17, 21, 27
Noida	05, 09, 12, 17, 22, 28	06, 10, 15, 19, 24, 29	07, 13, 16, 20, 26, 31
Ahmedabad	04, 07, 11, 15, 21, 27	03, 08, 12, 16, 22, 28	05, 10, 14, 18, 23, 29
Ludhiana	03, 08, 13, 18, 22, 28	05, 09, 13, 17, 22, 27	06, 11, 15, 19, 25, 31

TOEFL Exam Pattern 2025

The TOEFL exam structure is made up of four sections: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing. It is highly recommended that candidates engage in extensive practice, as increased exposure to TOEFL Sample Papers can significantly enhance their performance. The exam pattern for TOEFL in 2025 is established by ETS, the organization responsible for administering the TOEFL test. All study materials are developed with a focus on this testing structure.

TOEFL results will be made available online within 4 to 8 days following the test. The total score reflects the cumulative scores from all four areas of skill. Additionally, during the registration for the TOEFL, candidates have the opportunity to choose up to four institutions to receive their score report. Therefore, once scores are released, ETS promptly sends the official reports to the chosen institutions. Candidates can review the revised TOEFL Exam Pattern provided below.

TOEFL Exam Pattern 2025

Section	TOEFL Exam Pattern	Description
TOEFL Reading Section	Duration: 35 minutesNumber of Questions = 20	Read passages and respond to questions.
TOEFL Listening Section	Duration: 36 minutesNumber of Questions = 28	Answer questions about brief lectures or classroom discussions.
TOEFL Speaking Section	Duration: 16 minutesNumber of Tasks 4 tasks	Talk about a familiar topic and discuss material you read and heard.
TOEFL Writing Section	Duration: 29 minutesNumber of Tasks = 2 tasks	Read a passage, listen to a recording, and type your response.State and support an opinion in an online classroom discussion.
	Total Duration: 116 minutes

TOEFL Exam Syllabus 2025

The TOEFL iBT syllabus encompasses essential skills in reading, writing, listening, and speaking for students. Below is the format of the TOEFL exam, detailing the writing syllabus, reading syllabus, listening syllabus, and speaking syllabus:

Section	Number of Questions / Tasks	Duration	Description
Reading	20 questions	35 minutes	Read multiple passages and answer related questions.
Listening	28 questions	36 minutes	Respond to questions based on brief lectures or classroom discussions.
Speaking	4 tasks	16 minutes	Speak about a familiar topic and discuss material from reading and listening.
Writing	2 tasks	29 minutes	Read a passage, listen to a recording, and type a response.

TOEFL Exam Syllabus: Reading

Description: Within the TOEFL Reading section, you will encounter two passages, each roughly 700 words long, accompanied by 10 questions for every passage. To complete this section, you will need approximately 35 minutes. The scoring criteria are based on how many accurate reading comprehension questions you answer correctly.

Question type:

• 2 passages, 10 questions for each
• Total questions: 20
• Total duration: 35 minutes

TOEFL Exam Syllabus: Listening

Description: The Listening section of the TOEFL exam consists of three lectures, some of which include discussions in a classroom setting, lasting between 3 to 5 minutes each. There are 6 questions related to each lecture, alongside 2 conversations, each about 3 minutes long, with 5 questions for every conversation. Throughout the test, you are permitted to take notes on any audio segment to aid in answering the questions. The Listening section should take around 36 minutes to finish.

Question type:

• a) 3 lectures (3-5 minutes each, approximately 500-800 words) with 6 questions each, Total 18
• b) 2 conversations (approximately 3 minutes each, consisting of 12-25 exchanges) with 5 questions each, Total 10
• Total questions: 28
• Total duration: 36 minutes

TOEFL Exam Syllabus: Speaking

Description: To achieve optimal scores in the Speaking Section, your replies must adhere closely to the task requirements with just a few minor errors or flaws. The evaluators are looking for responses that are clear and demonstrate extended engagement. Scoring in this section is based on three primary components: delivery, language use, and the development of the topic.

Question type:

• a) 1 independent task (preparation time: 15 – 30 seconds; speaking time: 45 or 60 seconds)
• b) 3 integrated tasks – Read/Listen/Speak (preparation time: 15 – 30 seconds; speaking time: 45 or 60 seconds)
• Total questions: 4
• Total duration: 16 minutes

TOEFL Exam Syllabus: Writing

Description: The two essays must thoroughly address their respective topics. Your responses should be structured and developed, integrating relevant explanations and supporting details. Additionally, unity, coherence, and progression should be evident. To secure a high score in writing, ensure you display variety in sentence structure and select words appropriately, minimizing grammatical mistakes.

Question type:

• a) 1 integrated task – Read/Listen/Write (20 minutes) (reading: 3 minutes; listening: 2 minutes; writing: 15 minutes)
• b) 1 task for writing in an Academic Discussion (10 minutes)
• Total questions: 2
• Total duration: 30 minutes

TOEFL Score

The total TOEFL score varies from 0 to 120, determined by aggregating the scores of four sections of the test: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing. Each part is evaluated on a scale of 0 to 30, and the overall score is the total of these individual results. There is no established minimum score for the TOEFL.

The total TOEFL score serves as an indication of your general English language capability and is frequently utilized by universities, colleges, and other entities to evaluate your potential for studying, working, or communicating in English. Achieving a score of 100 or higher is regarded as a commendable TOEFL score. More than 12,500 institutions across over 160 countries recognize TOEFL score reports.

TOEFL Score

Below is the range of scores and descriptors for TOEFL iBT.

SECTION	IBT SCORE	LEVEL OF EXPERTISE
TOEFL Reading Score	0-30	A score of 22 to 30: High level A score of 15 to 21: Intermediate level A score of 0 to 14: Low level
TOEFL Listening Score	0-30	A score of 22 to 30: High level A score of 15 to 21: Intermediate level A score of 0 to 14: Low level
TOEFL Speaking Score	0-30	A score of 26 to 30: Good level A score of 18 to 25: Fair level A score of 10to 17: Limited level A score of 0 to 9: Weak level
TOEFL Writing Score	0-30	A score of 24 to 30: Good level A score of 17 to 23: Fair level A score of 1 to 16: Limited level
TOEFL Total Score	0-120	–

TOEFL PBT Score

It is essential to note that the TOEFL score range spans from 90 to 120.

TOEFL iBT Score	TOEFL PBT Score	Level of Expertise
118-120	≥ 645	Expert User
115-117	626 – 644	Very Good User
110-114	610 – 625
102-109	581 – 609	Good User
94-101	560 – 580
79-93	546 – 559	Competent User
60-78	530 – 545
42-59	516 – 529	Modest User
35-41	490 – 515
32-34	450 – 489	Limited User
0-31	400 – 449	Extremely Limited/Intermittent/Non-User

TOEFL Cut Off for Top US Universities

The subsequent section lists universities along with their TOEFL cut-off scores.

Top US Universities	TOEFL Cut off for US Universities
Harvard University	100 – 105
Columbia University	100
California Institute of Technology	78
UC Berkeley	100
Duke University	90
Brown University	100 or above
University of California, Los Angeles	87
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor	88 – 100; 23 minimum score in each section

TOEFL Preparation Tips

To gain a comprehensive understanding of the exam format, candidates require genuine books and study materials. Below are several tips for effective TOEFL preparation:

Get to know the exam format: Understanding the exam’s layout, the question varieties, and the timing allocated for each section is vital. This knowledge will enable you to manage your time wisely during the test.

Engage in practice tests: Taking practice exams can familiarize you with the types of questions to expect and assist in formulating a response strategy. Free practice tests can be accessed online or you can purchase test prep books. Numerous testing centers also offer a variety of practice sessions.

Enhance your English language abilities: Since the TOEFL assesses your English skills, it’s crucial to work on your reading, writing, listening, and speaking proficiency. This can be achieved by consuming books, listening to English podcasts, viewing English films, and engaging in conversation with native speakers. To enhance your speaking skills for TOEFL, articulate and rehearse your responses out loud in front of a mirror.

Utilize study resources: Numerous study aids exist, including textbooks, workbooks, online courses, and study guides. These resources will offer additional practice opportunities and support your English language development. A two-week study strategy for TOEFL can benefit those in need of a focused approach.

Leverage complimentary resources: Many free resources are accessible online, including YouTube videos, websites, and forums that provide guidance and practice exams. Utilize these tools to minimize expenses and boost your chances of achieving success.

Work on time management: Mastering time management is crucial for excelling in the TOEFL exam. Ensure you practice responding to questions within the designated time limits for each section. This will assist you in lowering preparation time and ensures you complete the exam punctually without time constraints.

TOEFL Fees 2025

Several crucial details regarding the examination are provided by ETS. Below are the key components of the TOEFL exam in India:

Item	Fees
TOEFL Test Fee	$205 or INR 16,900
TOEFL Late Registration Fee	$40 or INR 3,333
TOEFL Rescheduling Fee	$60, or INR 5,000
TOEFL Cancellation Fee	$20, or INR 1,650
Additional score reports (per institution or agency)	$25 each, or INR 2,000
Speaking or Writing Section Score Review	$80 or INR 6.660
Speaking and Writing Section Score Review	$160, or INR 13,330
Returned payment	$30, or INR 2,500

Best TOEFL Books

Identifying whether you are a beginner, an expert, or have a specific focus on grammar or vocabulary is the initial step in selecting the right books and materials for your needs. Once you’ve established your level, the next move is to pick the books that align with your study goals. To adequately prepare for the TOEFL, exploring some of the most recommended books and guides can be beneficial.

Below is a compilation of top TOEFL books that will aid you in effectively strategizing for a successful exam score. These books are recognized as excellent resources for the TOEFL exam, allowing you to achieve high scores with ease. Each book offers sufficient content to facilitate your self-study. Additionally, utilizing the official materials released by ETS can significantly enhance your preparation.

1. Official Guide to the TOEFL Test, Sixth Edition
2. TOEFL IBT: With 8 Online Practice Tests
3. TOEFL Preparation Book 2025-2026
4. Official TOEFL IBT Tests Volume 1, Fourth Edition
5. TOEFL IBT Prep Plus 2020-2021: 4 Practice Tests + Proven Strategies + Online + Audio
6. Essential words for the TOEFL
7. Official TOEFL IBT® Tests Volume 2
8. Barron’s TOEFL IBT

Book Title	Price (INR)	Available On
The Official Guide to the TOEFL iBT Test, 6th Edition	2,487	Amazon, Barnes & Noble, ETS Shop
Barron’s TOEFL iBT	2,487	Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Target
Kaplan’s TOEFL iBT Prep Plus 2020-2021	3,317	Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Walmart
Princeton Review TOEFL iBT Prep, 2022	2,487	Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Target
McGraw-Hill’s TOEFL iBT with 5 Online Practice Tests, 3rd Edition	2,487	Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Walmart
TOEFL Practice Online – Volume 30 Complete Practice Test	3,317	ETS Shop
The Ultimate TOEFL iBT Test Prep Savings Bundle	3,732	Magoosh
Magoosh TOEFL Prep	12,360 – 24,803	Magoosh Website
Manhattan Prep TOEFL iBT Course	41,394 – 74,576	Manhattan Prep Website

TOEFL Practice Test

A solid grasp of the English language is crucial for candidates since the TOEFL is designed to assess English proficiency. Similar to other standardized exams required for international study, the TOEFL comprises various sections. It is essential to prepare adequately for each segment, as they all hold equal importance.

The exam includes four sections, requiring substantial time dedicated to studying effectively for each one. After completing your practice test, evaluate your abilities with a TOEFL practice exam to understand your potential scoring capabilities.

Scholarships for TOEFL 2025

TOEFL exam scholarships: One of the significant challenges of studying abroad is managing tuition fees in foreign currency along with substantial living costs. This financial strain often leads many students to opt-out of overseas education.

An abundance of study abroad scholarships and educational loans now allows students to pursue their aspirations. Scholarships and other types of financial aid are typically listed on each college’s official website, frequently awarded to deserving candidates. Furthermore, financial institutions provide education loans to those looking to study internationally.

TOEFL Cut-Off

For the TOEFL exam, there are no set minimum passing scores; instead, these requirements differ by university or educational institution. Since each university establishes its own criteria for what constitutes a passing score, there is no universal TOEFL cutoff. Requirements can differ significantly across universities and specific programs, but they tend to remain relatively stable over time. Consequently, it’s imperative to stay updated on any modifications by checking the university websites regularly for any changes.

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