TOEFL iBT
The English test many universities ask for, with a new format and score scale since January 2026.
TOEFL iBT measures academic English in reading, listening, writing and speaking. Since 21 January 2026 the test is shorter, reading and listening adapt to how you are doing, and scores are given on a new 1–6 scale.
Overview
TOEFL iBT is widely used by universities, especially in North America, to check that applicants can study in English. The test changed in January 2026: it is shorter, the reading and listening sections adjust to how you answer, and the speaking and writing tasks have been redesigned. Scores are now reported on a 1 to 6 scale linked to the European framework, with the familiar 0 to 120 score shown alongside it for a transition period.
Those changes matter for how you prepare. Much of the advice and many of the practice books online still describe the old test, so check that your material is up to date before you rely on it. Then find out what your university asks for, and on which scale. Because the test is taken on a computer and your spoken answers are recorded, practise speaking into a microphone against a timer until it feels natural. Reading and listening to academic English every day, from lectures to articles, builds the skills the whole test rests on.
The four sections
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Reading
Academic texts and everyday reading. Adapts halfway through to your level.
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Listening
Lectures and conversations. Also adapts to your level.
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Writing
New task types since 2026, built around academic and everyday writing.
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Speaking
New task types since 2026. You speak into a microphone and your answers are recorded.
How it's scored
Each section gets a score from 1 to 6 in half points, matched to the CEFR levels, and your overall score is their average rounded to the nearest half point. During the change-over, score reports also show the familiar 0–120 total.
How to prepare
- Check that your study material is for the 2026 test: much of what is online describes the old one.
- Ask your university which scale and score it wants, now that both appear on reports.
- Practise speaking to a timer into a microphone, as on test day.
- Read and listen to academic English every day: lectures, articles and podcasts.
Official pages
Dates, registration and fees change from year to year, so check them on the official pages.
