TOEFL New Pattern: Section Wise Changes, Scoring System, and Preparation Tips
Content Curator | Updated On - Mar 2, 2024
TOEFL new pattern takes just under 1 hour and 56 minutes to complete, and the scores are accepted worldwide by more than 12,500 institutions. TOEFL new pattern has a shorter test duration and streamlined instruction, and it removes all unscored test questions. The independent writing task is replaced by writing for an academic discussion task on the latest exam format. Having a better understanding of TOEFL latest pattern is very important for exam preparation.
The difficulty level of TOEFL is intended to remain the same, though the shorter test duration may affect the test-taking strategies. The latest TOEFL exam pattern consists of 4 sections; reading, writing, listening, and speaking. TOEFL score ranges on a scale of 0 to 120, and each section is scored on a 0 to 30 level. The test closely shows how English is used in everyday academic settings. TOEFL new pattern contains 100% academic content with integrated tasks.
The main change in TOEFL iBT new pattern is the exam time, and there are some sectional changes as well. Effective exam preparation for the updated TOEFL syllabus needs to be done from verified resources. Candidates are advised to check the ETS official website and read the updated terms and conditions before applying for the exam.
- Old Pattern vs New Pattern
- Exam Pattern
2.1 Reading
2.2 Listening
2.3 Speaking
2.4 Writing - New Scoring System
3.1 Preparation Tips - FAQs
TOEFL Old Pattern vs New Pattern
The new exam pattern for TOEFL is much more short and compact. This helps to reduce time and measure the English language skills of the candidate. The TOEFL preparation should also vary as per the format of the examination. TOEFL new pattern vs old pattern are:
| Sections | Old TOEFL Exam Pattern | TOEFL Test New Format |
|---|---|---|
| TOEFL Reading | Duration: 54 – 72 minutes 30–40 Questions | Duration: 35 minutes 20 Questions |
| Listening | Duration: 41–57 minutes 28 – 39 Questions | Duration: 36 minutes 28 Questions |
| Speaking | Duration: 17 minutes 4 Questions | Duration: 16 minutes Questions: 4 tasks |
| Writing | Duration: 50 minutes Questions: 2 tasks | Duration: 29 minutes Questions: 2 tasks |
| Total Duration: 162 – 196 minutes | Total Duration: 116 minutes |
TOEFL Exam Pattern 2024
The ETS has also announced the following changes in the TOEFL examination pattern 2024. The TOEFL ibt new pattern changes are:
- Registration for the TOEFL has been simplified from July 26, 2023 onwards.
- The time of TOEFL New pattern 2024 is reduced from three hours to less than two hours (116 minutes).
- The TOEFL Reading section has been reduced for the candidates.
- All unscored TOEFL questions will be removed from the new TOEFL format 2024.
- Local payment options will be introduced to make the payment of TOEFL exam fee easy.
- A customer service center will be operational for all seven days of the week for 12 hours a day.
- ETS has launched the free-of-cost TOEFL Go! An app that enables TOEFL test takers to prepare on the go.
TOEFL Reading
The latest TOEFL exam pattern for Reading section is shorter. TOEFL reading new format are excerpts from university-level textbooks and cover various topics. All the information required to answer the questions are included in the passage.
The TOEFL Reading section consists of:
- 2 passages, each 700 words.
- The passages are followed by 10 questions each.
- The time taken is 35 minutes
- The score range is 0-30.
TOEFL Reading Practice Papers
| TOEFL Reading Practice Test 1 | TOEFL Reading Practice Test 2 |
| TOEFL Reading Practice Test 3 | TOEFL Reading Practice Test 4 |
| TOEFL Reading Practice Test 5 | TOEFL Reading Practice Test 6 |
TOEFL Listening
TOEFL Listening section allows you to listen to 3 lectures or discussions. Then 6 questions are asked related to each lecture. The details of TOEFL Listening new pattern 2024 are:
3 lectures, some with classroom discussion
- Each 3–5 minutes
- 6 questions each
- 2 conversations
- each 3 minutes
- 5 questions each
- Estimated Timing: 36 minutes
- Score scale: 0–30
TOEFL Listening Practice Papers
| TOEFL Listening Practice Test 1 | TOEFL Listening Practice Test 2 |
| TOEFL Listening Practice Test 3 | TOEFL Listening Practice Test 4 |
| TOEFL Listening Practice Test 5 | TOEFL Listening Practice Test 6 |
TOEFL Speaking
In the TOEFL speaking section, you need to talk about the topics and express your opinion. Candidates get 30 seconds to prepare and one minute to respond. TOEFL new pattern practice test will help candidates excel the speaking section. The details are:
- Total of 4 tasks
- 1 independent task to express an opinion on a familiar topic
- 3 integrated tasks based on what is read and heard
- 30 seconds to prepare the response, up to 1 minute to respond
- Estimated Timing: 16 minutes
- Score scale: 0–30
TOEFL Speaking Practice Papers
| TOEFL Speaking Practice Test 1 | TOEFL Speaking Practice Test 2 |
| TOEFL Speaking Practice Test 3 | TOEFL Speaking Practice Test 4 |
| TOEFL Speaking Practice Test 5 | TOEFL Speaking Practice Test 6 |
TOEFL Writing
The TOEFL writing section consists of 2 tasks and the total time is around 29 minutes. The TOEFL new exam pattern details are:
- 1 20-minute integrated task based on what is read and heard
- 1 10-minute Writing for an Academic Discussion task to state and support an opinion in an online classroom discussion
- Estimated Timing: 29 minutes
- Score scale: 0–30
TOEFL Writing Practice Papers
TOEFL New Scoring System
The TOEFL new scoring system has 4 levels - Advanced, High-Intermediate, Low-Intermediate and below low-intermediate. TOEFL scoring system for Reading, Listening, Speaking and Writing are different on the updated exam pattern. The details of how TOEFL is scored are:
| Advanced | High-Intermediate | Low-Intermediate | Below Low-Intermediate | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TOEFL Reading | 24–30 | 18–23 | 4–17 | 0–3 |
| TOEFL Listening | 22–30 | 17–21 | 9–16 | 0–8 |
| TOEFL Speaking | 25–30 | 20–24 | 16–19 | 10–15 (Basic) 0–9 (Below Basic) |
| TOEFL Writing | 24–30 | 17–23 | 13–16 | Basic (7–12) Below Basic (0–6) |
TOEFL Preparation Tips
TOEFL preparation tips will help you ace the updated exam. You can effecrive take offline of online TOEFL preparation for higher scores. preparation tips helps candidate who want to self prepare or prepare at home. Few TOEFL preparation tips are:
- Read English newspapers on a daily basis. This will help you to be fluent.
- Watch videos and listen to podcasts. This will improve the English hearing and understanding ability.
- Add new words to your vocabulary
- Follow a scheduled study guide and discipline
- Practice speaking to yourself or in front of a mirror. This will boost your confidence.
TOEFL new pattern is much more compact and focuses on the ability of the candidate. The new pattern helps the candidate complete the faster just within 2 hours.
FAQs
Ques: What are the major changes in the new TOEFL pattern?
Ans: TOEFL new pattern has a shorter test duration and streamlined instruction, and it removes all unscored test questions. The independent writing task is replaced by writing for an academic discussion task on the latest exam format.
Ques: How does the new TOEFL pattern differ from the previous one?
Ans: Previously, TOEFL exam took 162 to 196 minutes to complete, and candidates are now allocated 116 minutes to complete the test.
Ques: Are there any changes in the TOEFL test sections?
Ans: TOEFL new pattern removes all unscored test questions, and the independent writing task is replaced by writing for an academic discussion task on the latest exam format.
Ques: How has the scoring system changed in the new TOEFL pattern?
Ans: The scoring pattern remains the same as the old format. TOEFL score ranges on a scale of 0 to 120, and each section is scored on a 0 to 30 level.
Ques: What skills are tested in the new TOEFL pattern?
Ans: TOEFL new pattern contains 100% academic content with integrated tasks. Having a better understanding of TOEFL latest pattern is very important for exam preparation.
Ques: Is the duration of the TOEFL test the same in the new pattern?
Ans: TOEFL new pattern takes just under 1 hour and 56 minutes to complete, and the scores are accepted worldwide by more than 12,500 institutions.
Ques: How should I prepare differently for the new TOEFL pattern?
Ans: You need to prepare differently for the latest pattern, as it contains fewer questions, and you are also allocated a shorter time than the old format.
Ques: Can I use old TOEFL preparation materials for the new pattern?
Ans: Some section contents of TOEFL syllabus remain the same, but candidates are advised to prepare with the latest and updated books.
Ques: How has the writing section changed in the new TOEFL pattern?
Ans: The independent writing task is replaced by writing for an academic discussion task on the latest exam format. Previously, the writing section was 50 minutes long, but now it allocated 29 minutes to students.
Ques: Are there any changes in the listening section format in the new TOEFL pattern?
Ans: The listening section now consists of 28 questions, and you are allocated 36 minutes to complete the exam. Previously, the listening section took 41 to 57 minutes to complete.
Ques: What are the major changes in the new TOEFL format?
Ans: The TOEFL New pattern is now shorter, lasting around 2 hours. The shorter format is the main change in TOEFL exam format
Ques: Is the scoring different in the new TOEFL?
Ans: No, the scoring scale (0-30) remains the same across all sections. Candidates are scored based on their performance in the TOEFL exam.
Ques: How much does the new TOEFL cost?
Ans: The fee varies by location, but typically ranges from $170 to $215. The TOEFL cost for India is $205 (INR 17,023).
Ques: When can I take the new TOEFL?
Ans: The new TOEFL test is available from July. 2023. The test is offered year-round at authorized centers globally. You can register online anytime.
Ques: What are some good resources for preparing for the new TOEFL?
Ans: The ETS website offers official practice materials and test information. Many websites and apps offer practice tests and study guides. You can consider enrolling in a prep course, either online or in-person.
Ques: Is the new TOEFL more difficult than the old one?
Ans: No, the new TOEFL is not as difficult as the old one. Difficulty is subjective, but the shorter format and changes in question types might feel different.
Ques: I took the old TOEFL, is my score still valid?
Ans: Yes, the scores from the old TOEFL are still valid. Scores from the old format remain valid for two years after the test date.
Ques: What type of English is tested on the TOEFL?
Ans: The TOEFL tests academic English used in university environments. You'll encounter everyday situations and academic topics through lectures, conversations, and written passages.
Ques: Do I need to have a specific computer skill level for the TOEFL?
Ans: No, there is no specific computer skills required for TOEFL. Basic computer skills are sufficient. The test platform is user-friendly and practice tests can help you familiarize yourself.
Ques: What is the minimum score I need to achieve for my desired university?
Ans: The minimum score required to get admission to the desired university varies as per the cutoff of the particular university. Score requirements vary significantly between universities and programs.
*The article might have information for the previous academic years, please refer the official website of the exam.