TOEFL Exam Pattern 2024

Whether you are a first-time test taker or looking to improve your score, understanding the exam structure is crucial for success. This page will provide you with detailed insights into the format, sections, and scoring of the TOEFL 2024.

The TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is a standardized test designed to measure the English proficiency of non-native speakers. The TOEFL 2024 maintains the tradition of evaluating four key language skills: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing. Let’s delve into each section.

TOEFL 2024 Exam Mode:

There are currently three main modes for taking the TOEFL exam:

TOEFL iBT (Internet-based Test):

Most popular and widely available format.
Administered entirely online at designated testing centers.
Approximately 4 hours in duration.
Four sections: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing.
Considered the standard format for most academic and professional institutions.

TOEFL PBT (Paper-based Test):

Offered in limited locations due to decreasing popularity.
Uses paper-and-pencil format for all sections.
Approximately 2.5 hours in duration.
Four sections: Listening Comprehension, Structure and Written Expression, Reading Comprehension, and Test of Written English.
May be less familiar to some institutions compared to the iBT.

TOEFL Home Edition:

Offers flexibility and convenience by allowing you to take the test from your own home.
Follows the same content and structure as the TOEFL iBT.
Requires specific equipment and reliable internet connection.
May not be accepted by all universities or institutions, so check beforehand.

Here’s a table summarizing the key differences between the three modes:

Feature	TOEFL iBT	TOEFL PBT	TOEFL Home Edition
Format	Online	Paper-based	Online (from home)
Availability	Widely available	Limited locations	Requires specific equipment and internet connection
Duration	Approximately 4 hours	Approximately 2.5 hours	Approximately 4 hours
Sections	Four: Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing	Four: Listening Comprehension, Structure and Written Expression, Reading Comprehension, Test of Written English	Four: Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing
Acceptance	Standard format for most institutions	May not be accepted by all institutions	Check with institutions beforehand

Which mode is right for you?

The best option depends on your personal preferences, testing availability in your area, and the requirements of the institutions you’re applying to. Consider factors like:

Convenience: Do you prefer the flexibility of the Home Edition or the structure of a testing center?
Technology skills: Are you comfortable taking the test online or on paper?
Institution acceptance: Will your target institutions accept the specific mode you choose?

I hope this information helps you decide which TOEFL mode is the best fit for you! Feel free to ask if you have any further questions or need help evaluating your options.

Latest Updates in TOEFL Exam Pattern 2024:

The Educational Testing Service (ETS) has recently announced several modifications to the TOEFL examination pattern for 2024:

Simplified Registration Process (Effective July 26, 2023): The registration process for the ETS TOEFL exam has undergone simplification, allowing test-takers to easily register on the official website.
Reduced Exam Duration: The total duration of the TOEFL exam in the 2024 pattern has been shortened from three hours to less than two hours (116 minutes). This change is accompanied by streamlined instructions and improved navigation to enhance the test-taking experience.
Changes in Reading Section: The TOEFL pattern for the reading section has been revised to make it more concise and efficient for candidates.
Removal of Unscored Questions: In the new TOEFL format for 2024, all unscored questions have been eliminated.
Enhanced Transparency in Scoring: Commencing from July 26, 2023, the TOEFL exam will exhibit increased transparency by disclosing total marks to test-takers.
Introduction of Local Payment Options: To enhance candidate convenience, local payment options will be introduced for the payment of TOEFL exam fees.
Customer Service Center: A dedicated customer service center will be established, operational seven days a week for 12 hours each day, to assist candidates with their queries and concerns.
TOEFL Go! App: ETS has launched the TOEFL Go! app, a complimentary resource that allows TOEFL test-takers to prepare on the go. The app offers features such as instant feedback, scoring, coaching, tips, and the ability to compare performance.

These updates aim to streamline the TOEFL examination process, providing test-takers with improved accessibility, transparency, and support. Stay informed and take advantage of these changes as you prepare for the TOEFL 2024 exam.

TOEFL 2024 Exam Pattern:

As of July 26, 2023, TOEFL has introduced an upgraded version of the test aimed at enhancing student efficiency and providing a more user-friendly exam experience. The TOEFL examination pattern has been revised, resulting in reduced durations for individual sections, details of which are provided in the tables below. It’s important to note that, despite these changes, the total TOEFL marks remain consistent at 120 in the new test pattern.

TOEFL iBT (Internet-based Test) Exam Pattern:

Section	Duration	Number of Questions	Tasks
Reading	35 minutes	20 questions	Reading 2 or 3 passages that are excerpts from academic textbooks and answering questions
Listening	36 minutes	28 questions	Listening 3 lectures and 2 conversations and answering questions
Speaking	16 minutes	4 tasks	1 Speaking task about an independent topic and 3 integrated tasks with combined skills of listening & speaking/listening, reading and speaking
Writing	29 minutes	2 tasks	Write a response by listening to a given topic and supporting an opinion
Total Duration: About 2 hours (116 Minutes)

TOEFL PBT Exam Pattern:

Section	Duration	Number of Questions	Tasks
Reading	54–72 minutes	30–40 questions	Reading 3 or 4 passages from academic texts and answering questions.
Listening	41-57 minutes	28–38 Questions	Listening 3-4 lectures and 2-3 conversations and answering questions
10 minutes BREAK
Writing	50 minutes	2 tasks	Writing 2 responses one based on reading a passage, and another based on listening to a recording.
Speaking (Home-Proctored Test)	17 minutes	4 tasks	Speak about a familiar topic and speak/discuss topics that are read and heard.
Total duration = About 3 hours

Understanding Your Score Report:

Your official score report will provide details on your individual section scores, total score, and CEFR level for each section.
It will also offer percentile rankings, showing how your score compares to other test-takers.
Utilize the detailed score breakdown to identify your strengths and areas for improvement in your test preparation.