The TOEFL iBT measures academic English in reading, listening, writing and speaking. On 21 January 2026 ETS introduced a revised format: the test is shorter, Reading and Listening are now multistage adaptive, and tasks reflect more everyday and academic situations.
Scores are now reported on a 1–6 scale in half-point steps, aligned with the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR). For a transition period of about two years, score reports also show a comparable score on the older 0–120 scale, so universities can compare applicants.
You can take TOEFL iBT at a test centre or at home through the Home Edition. It is widely accepted by US and Canadian universities and by many in the UK, Australia, Ireland and New Zealand. Moksh does not run TOEFL; you book directly with ETS.
Test format
- 1
Reading · About 18–27 minutes
Adaptive: the difficulty of the second stage depends on how you do in the first. Tasks include completing words in a passage, reading everyday texts and answering questions on a short academic passage.
- 2
Listening · About 18–27 minutes
Adaptive. Short responses to what you hear, plus conversations, announcements and academic talks with questions.
- 3
Writing · About 23 minutes
Build a sentence, write an email and write for an academic discussion.
- 4
Speaking · About 8 minutes
Listen and repeat, then a simulated interview with short spoken answers.
Scoring
Each section is scored from 1 to 6 in half-point steps, and the overall score is the average rounded to the nearest half point. During the transition, reports also give a comparable 0–120 total. MyBest scores combine your best section scores from valid tests.
Fee, results and validity
- Fee in India: Charged in US dollars; recently about ₹17,000–18,000 including taxes in India for the test centre or Home Edition. Late registration and rescheduling cost extra. (indicative, check the official site)
- Results: Usually within 72 hours; the expected date is shown at the end of your test
- Score validity: Two years from the test date
- Run by: ETS (Educational Testing Service)
Where it is accepted
- US universities (very widely)
- Canadian universities and colleges
- UK universities (check whether your visa route needs a UKVI-approved test instead)
- Australian universities (check the Department of Home Affairs list for current visa acceptance)
- Irish universities
- New Zealand universities
Preparation tips from our counsellors
- Use only preparation material written for the January 2026 format; older books describe a different test
- Check whether your universities have published requirements on the new 1–6 scale or still quote 0–120
- Because Reading and Listening are adaptive, do your best on the first stage to reach the harder, higher-scoring second stage
- Practise writing short, polite emails and concise discussion posts, not only long essays
- For speaking, practise repeating sentences accurately and answering interview questions within the time limit
- If you choose the Home Edition, test your room, webcam and internet against ETS's rules well before the day
Frequently asked questions
What changed in TOEFL iBT in January 2026?
The test became shorter, Reading and Listening became adaptive, several task types were replaced, and a new 1–6 score scale was introduced alongside a comparable 0–120 score for a transition period.
My university asks for 90 on TOEFL. What do I need on the new scale?
Your score report will show both the 1–6 score and a comparable 0–120 score during the transition, so you can check it against the old requirement. Confirm with the university which figure it will use.
Are my old TOEFL scores still valid?
Yes, scores from tests taken before January 2026 stay valid for two years from their test date.
Is the TOEFL Home Edition accepted everywhere?
Most universities that accept TOEFL iBT accept the Home Edition, but some visa authorities and institutions do not. Check each one before booking.
Does Moksh conduct TOEFL?
No. TOEFL is owned and run by ETS. Moksh offers preparation guidance and helps you decide which test fits your applications.