Yasemin Arsin is the TOEFL Academic Relations & English Language Teacher Coordinator at ETS, the world’s largest non-profit educational assessment, research, and learning organization. She shared key insights into the TOEFL iBT test, the world’s most accepted English language test for study, work, and immigration.
The TOEFL iBT test is “the premier test of academic English communication offered at test centers worldwide,” Yasemin begins. “It helps candidates stand out to admissions officers and show that they do have the English skills to succeed in an academic environment.” (00:21)
Yasemin adds, “It is the world’s most accepted English language test for study, work, and immigration. More than 11,500 institutions in more than 160 countries trust TOEFL iBT scores when making admissions decisions.” (01:13)
With four sections, including Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing, the TOEFL iBT test takes around three hours to complete. Test takers also have the option to take the test at a test center or home. As Yasemin says, “The convenience of the TOEFL iBT test helps the candidates to benefit from the test-taking experience.” (02:20)
In summary, Tests in English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is a globally recognized English language test. It is similar to other English language tests, such as the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). However, they are not the same. It is crucial to research which test is right for you, depending on where you plan to live and study and the entry requirements of the institutions you are applying to.
Since its launch in 2005, the TOEFL iBT has experienced some changes. While the overall structure and content of the test is the same, Yasemin tells us, “ETS has made several significant improvements to the test in the last few years.” (04:06)
The most significant change might be the introduction of the TOEFL iBT Home Edition and Paper Edition. In the TOEFL iBT Home Edition, test takers can complete the test in the privacy of their own homes. They are monitored online by a human proctor. In the TOEFL iBT Paper Edition, test takers take three test sections on paper and complete the Speaking section at home. These new formats allow students to choose the test that is more convenient for them and that best matches their preferred style.
Other changes to the TOEFL iBT include:
As the test creator, ETS highly recommends that test takers use the test prep resources developed by ETS.
Yasemin lists several preparation resources offered by ETS, including:
Take advantage of these test prep resources to ensure your success!
As with any academic test, there is always a risk of fraud. ETS takes test security very seriously.
“ETS has long been at the forefront of combating test security concerns, with more than $60 million invested in state-of-the-art security annually,” Yasemin explains. “The TOEFL test offers the best security of any English language assessment.” (08:40)
ETS implements test-day security procedures, such as biometric voice identification, facial recognition, and electronic bonding at test centers. For the TOEFL iBT Home Edition, “ETS employs both live human proctors and the use of artificial intelligence technology to prevent and detect suspicious activity,” Yasemin shares. (09:19)
ETS recently launched the TOEFL Essentials test, a 1.5-hour at-home test, half the time typically required for other English language tests. The test includes all the core language skills: reading, writing, listening, and speaking. It also contains an unscored five-minute Personal Video Statement, allowing test takers to introduce themselves to admissions officers and showcase their personalities.
Is the TOEFL iBT or TOEFL Essentials test right for you?
Yasemin suggests, “The best way to choose which test is best for [you] is to think about [your] goals and what [you’re] trying to accomplish.” (12:57)
It’s important to do your research and check directly with the institution you’re applying to learn about its admissions requirements.
In any case, “both the TOEFL Essentials test and TOEFL iBT test will not only help students achieve their academic goals but also show admissions officers students’ ability to succeed in their programs,” Yasemin states. She concludes, “TOEFL has provided high-quality English language assessments for over 70 years and is trusted by admissions officers worldwide.” (13:37)
With the right research, you can find the test that best suits your needs and requirements. With further dedication, preparation, and the proper study tools, these tests can open new doors for you.
To learn more about language tests, master’s program applications, and admissions, read our previous articles.
