Exciting changes are coming to the TOEFL iBT test, designed to provide an enhanced experience for test takers worldwide. The TOEFL iBT test is be the only assessment that measures all four academic English skills exactly as they are used in real academic settings. But that’s not all – the test will also become the shortest among commonly taken English proficiency exams, taking less than two hours to complete.

These improvements aim to streamline the test, making it more efficient and user-friendly. With simplified instructions, removal of unscored questions, and a modernized writing task, the TOEFL iBT test will be even more accessible and relevant for aspiring English language learners.

So, if you’re planning to take the TOEFL iBT test, get ready for an even better testing experience. Let’s explore the exciting enhancements awaiting you.

The TOEFL iBT test consists of four main sections: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing. Each section assesses a specific set of English language skills and is designed to measure your proficiency in academic English. Here’s a breakdown of the Enhanced format:

Section	Passages	Questions	Estimated Timing
Reading	2	10 per passage	36 minutes
Listening	2 conversations 3 lectures	5 questions each 6 questions each	36 minutes
Speaking	4 tasks	1 independent & 3 integrated	17 minutes
Writing	2 tasks	1 integrated & 1 Academic Discussion	30 minutes

Reading:

The reading section of the test will undergo a reduction in the number of questions. Previously, test takers were required to answer questions based on three reading passages. However, in the new test format, only two reading passages will be provided. Consequently, the reading task can now be completed in approximately 36 minutes, compared to the previous duration of up to an hour and ten minutes.

Listening:

Similarly, the listening section will feature a decrease in the number of questions test takers must answer. Previously, between 30 and 40 questions were based on three to four lectures and two to three conversations. However, from July 26 onwards, test takers will answer questions related to three lectures and two conversations. This adjustment allows the listening task to be completed in approximately 36 minutes.

Speaking:

No changes have been made to the speaking section of the test. Test takers will still have approximately 17 minutes to demonstrate their English-speaking proficiency.

Writing:

One of the notable changes in the Enhanced TOEFL iBT is the introduction of a new writing task. Previously, students were required to complete an independent writing task as part of the writing section. However, starting from July 26, 2023, test takers will now undertake a task known as ‘Writing for an Academic Discussion.’ This updated writing task embraces a more contemporary approach compared to the previous independent writing task.

It’s important to note that only the independent writing task has been modified, while the existing ‘Integrated Writing Task’ remains unchanged.

Key Changes:

Removal of Unscored Questions! The new format eliminates unscored questions, allowing test-takers to focus solely on answering questions that contribute to their final score. This change helps optimize the testing experience, as test-takers can allocate their time and effort more efficiently.

So, if you’re planning to take the TOEFL iBT test, embrace these exciting changes and look forward to a more efficient and user-friendly testing experience. Invest time in understanding the updated format, practice the integrated skills needed for academic success.