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TOEFL iBT Exam Overview

Sep 30, 2025,

Overview

This introductory lecture covers the basics of the TOEFL iBT exam, available test formats, course structure, and key information for students preparing for the test.

What is TOEFL iBT?

  • TOEFL stands for Test of English as a Foreign Language; iBT refers to the internet-based test.
  • TOEFL iBT is accepted by most universities for admission and is the most common version taken.
  • Other TOEFL versions include ITP (Institutional Testing Program), PBT (Paper-based Test), and Essentials (focuses on fewer skills).
  • ETS administers the exam, and their website provides important information and registration.

Test Structure & Scoring

  • The TOEFL iBT measures four skills: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing.
  • Reading: 20 questions, 36 minutes (2 articles, 10 questions each).
  • Listening: 28 questions (2 conversations, 3 lectures), timing not usually an issue.
  • Speaking: 4 questions (1 opinion, 3 integrated tasks), with set preparation and response times.
  • Writing: 2 questions (summarize article+lecture, and academic discussion).
  • Each section is worth 30 points, with a maximum total of 120; there is no "failing" score, but institutions may require a minimum.

Test-Taking Options: Home Edition vs Test Center

  • Home Edition: More comfortable, flexible scheduling, but risks with internet reliability, note-taking restrictions, and strict monitoring.
  • Test Center: Safer in terms of technology, allows paper notes, but more distractions, limited dates/times, and less flexibility.

Course Structure & Resources

  • Classes held Monday to Friday, one hour each.
  • Each week focuses on a specific skill (reading, listening, speaking, writing), with extra time on speaking practice.
  • Resources include Google Classroom, class recordings on YouTube, initial and final simulated tests, and a practice website (Best My Test).
  • Practice website may have performance issues if crowded; take screenshots of scores as proof.

Tips & Key Advice

  • Time management is crucial, especially for the Reading section.
  • Note-taking is important, especially for Listening; practice abbreviating and summarizing quickly.
  • Each skill is important, regardless of personal strengths or required scores for institutions.
  • Templates will be provided for speaking and writing but can be modified.

Key Terms & Definitions

  • TOEFL — Test of English as a Foreign Language, an exam for non-native English speakers.
  • iBT — Internet-Based Test, the online version of TOEFL.
  • Lecture — An academic presentation or class, often used in Listening and Speaking sections.
  • Integrated Questions — Tasks combining reading, listening, or both with speaking/writing.
  • ETS — Educational Testing Service, the official TOEFL test provider.

Action Items / Next Steps

  • Visit the ETS website for official guidelines and updates.
  • Await Google Classroom invitation and familiarize yourself with Best My Test.
  • Prepare for tomorrow's class on Reading—expect strategies for time-saving and sample questions.
  • Practice taking notes quickly for listening sections.
  • Reach out with questions via WhatsApp group as needed.

Full transcript