Test Section and Timing Overview
Use the table below to view the breakdown of each TOEFL iBT test section. The TOEFL iBT test is 90 minutes in duration, making it shorter than the previous version of the test used before January 2026.
| Test Section | Task type | Number of items | Approx. Base Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reading |
|
50 | 30 |
| Listening |
|
47 | 29 |
| Writing |
|
12 | 23 |
| Speaking |
|
11 | 8 |
Test time does not include directions. Please allow approximately two hours to complete the test. As the test adapts, test time and items may vary.
How to Prepare
Visit our resources hub to prepare for the TOEFL iBT test.
Administration and testing options
The TOEFL iBT test is offered two ways:
- TOEFL iBT test: on a computer at an authorized test center
- TOEFL iBT Home Edition: on a computer at home, monitored by a live human proctor
Scoring
- Receive four section scores, as well as an overall score, on the 1 – 6 scale.
- The overall score will be the average of all four sections, rounded to the nearest half band (for example, if the average of a student's section scores is 5.125, they will receive an overall score of 5).
- For a two-year transition period after January 2026, students will also receive a comparable overall score on the 0 – 120 scale.
- For more details on scoring visit our Score Guidance page.
Technical Documents
Frequently Asked Questions
TOEFL iBT test items are developed through a collaborative effort of researchers, test developers, and psychometricians using a multi-step process. AI-assisted tools may support development, but all items undergo rigorous human review.
If you don't complete at least one Reading question, one Listening question, one Speaking task and one Writing task, your test will not be scored. In other words, skipping any section means no sections will be scored.
Before the test, make sure you understand what the questions will ask and what raters look for. Review the Speaking Section page for additional information and tips.
Yes. At a test center, scratch paper and pencils are provided. For testing at home, use a small whiteboard or a blank sheet of paper in a transparent sheet protector with an erasable marker.
Writing assistance software is not permitted during the TOEFL iBT test.
There are no scheduled breaks during the TOEFL iBT test. Be sure to plan accordingly.
Mobile devices are not permitted during the test. At a test center, devices must be stored with personal items. For Home Edition, your device must be stored after check-in.