TOEFL iBT Exam Help Master Guide

A) TOEFL Overview

What TOEFL measures

TOEFL iBT is a standardized test designed to measure whether you can use and understand English the way it’s used in academic settings (and modern campus life). As of January 21, 2026, ETS rolled out an updated TOEFL iBT with:

• Multistage adaptive Reading + Listening (your second module adjusts based on performance).
• Newer task types that include “real-life” academic + campus contexts (e.g., announcements, emails, online discussion).
• A new score scale (1–6 in half-point increments) aligned to CEFR, with a two-year transition that also reports a comparable 0–120 score.

Key reality: TOEFL iBT is primarily used for academic admissions and placement. Immigration and professional licensing may accept it, accept it only in specific forms, or not accept it at all (details in Section E).

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Where it’s accepted and common misconceptions

Because acceptance is set by institutions and agencies, the only reliable rule is: check your specific program/agency page (examples later). A few high-impact misconceptions:

1. “If a university accepts TOEFL, it accepts any TOEFL.” Not true. For example, Oxford states it will not accept TOEFL tests taken from Jan 21, 2026 until it completes a review of the revised test.

2. “MyBest (superscore) is always accepted.” Not true. University of Toronto explicitly says MyBest won’t be used for its minimum requirement. NABP (pharmacy licensing) also states it does not accept MyBest.

3. “TOEFL Home Edition works for immigration everywhere.” Not true. Australia explicitly lists TOEFL iBT – Home Edition as an example of a fully online/at-home test it does not accept for visa purposes (online test restrictions). Canada’s Express Entry accepts specific tests (IELTS General Training / CELPIP General / etc.), and TOEFL is not on that list.

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TOEFL vs IELTS vs Duolingo comparison table

Use this as a decision tool, then confirm acceptance for your exact target.

Decision guidance (fast):

• Take TOEFL iBT if your programs explicitly accept/prefer it, or you want ETS’s academic-integrated design.
• Take IELTS if your pathway is immigration-heavy (Canada Express Entry uses IELTS General Training, not TOEFL) or your institutions are IELTS-centric.
• Take DET if your institutions accept it and you need speed/flexibility (but always confirm acceptance + minimum subscores).

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B) Eligibility & Requirements (Location-Specific)

ID requirements and name matching (acceptable vs rejected IDs)

ETS policy (non-negotiable): your registration name must match your ID exactly (excluding accents/diacritics). If it doesn’t match, you cannot test and your fee won’t be refunded.

General ID requirements (ETS): ID must be original (no photocopies), physical (digital ID generally not accepted except limited cases like Korea), valid (not expired), include full name + DOB that match registration, photo, and signature.

Common rejected IDs (ETS examples): international driver’s license, credit/debit card, student ID as primary, birth certificate, temporary ID, etc.

Location-specific requirement: ETS explicitly says ID rules depend on test location + citizenship, and you must select your testing country to view the exact accepted primary IDs.

Practical checklist: name + ID match

• Use your full first/given name (no nickname, no initial-only).
• Use your full last/family name exactly as on ID (including multi-part last names, spacing).
• If you’re worried, contact TOEFL Services before registering.

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Test center vs at-home availability (verify)

ETS currently lists three administration options historically, but with important updates:

• TOEFL iBT at a test center (computer-based)
• TOEFL iBT Home Edition (at home, monitored by a live proctor)
• Paper Edition is discontinued (ETS states it is no longer offered after Jan 20, 2024, though old Paper Edition scores remain valid for 2 years).

Verify availability in your country: availability is not universal; confirm in your ETS registration flow and your region’s TOEFL pages. ETS also notes some procedures differ by region (e.g., Mainland China has separate registration portals).

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Accommodations: types, process, documentation, timelines, risks

ETS policy: accommodations exist for test takers with disabilities or health-related needs. Requests are submitted through your ETS account via “TOEFL Accommodation Status/New Request,” or via email/mail (see ETS Bulletin Supplement).

What you should expect (high-accuracy framing):

• ETS does not promise a single universal approval timeline on the public-facing page excerpt we have; it directs test takers to the Bulletin Supplement for procedural detail.
• Because scheduling, seat availability, and documentation review can take time, the safest strategy is: start early and do not book tight deadlines until your accommodation status is confirmed in your account.

Risks to manage:

• Registering too late can force you into dates you don’t want (especially if you need a specific center setup).
• Documentation mismatches or incomplete medical evidence can delay approval (so follow the exact requirements in the Bulletin Supplement).

Decision guidance: when accommodations are worth pursuing Pursue accommodations if you have documented functional impact that would otherwise prevent valid performance (e.g., extended time needs, screen-reader needs, medical breaks). If your challenge is primarily “I’m not ready” rather than a documented condition, accommodations are usually not the right lever.

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Special cases: international candidates, name changes, complex names

• ETS explicitly addresses multiple-part names and instructs entering your complete last name as printed (excluding accents).
• If your name changes after registration, ETS directs you to contact TOEFL Services.
• If you cannot meet ID requirements (asylum/refugee status), you must contact ETS Office of Testing Integrity before registering.

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C) Sections & Blueprint (TOEFL-Correct)

First, the critical format split you must understand

ETS provides two different “real” TOEFL iBT structures depending on test date:

• Before Jan 21, 2026 (legacy): Reading 35 min (20 Q), Listening 36 min (28 Q), Speaking 16 min (4 tasks), Writing 29 min (2 tasks).
• On/after Jan 21, 2026 (current as of Feb 2026): updated tasks + adaptive modules with a different blueprint and new scoring scale.

Below is the updated (current) blueprint you should train for unless your registration explicitly shows the older version.

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Reading (Updated TOEFL iBT)

Official task types (ETS):

• Complete the Words
• Read in Daily Life
• Read an Academic Passage

Official structure: ETS lists 50 items with 30 minutes base time (directions not included); the test adapts so time/items may vary.

Adaptive reality (ETS): Reading is multistage adaptive; you take a first module, then a second module whose difficulty adjusts based on performance. You can’t skip or go back between stages.

Reading table (what to train)

Skills tested (ETS framing): updated TOEFL includes broader modern reading sources (websites/social/news) alongside academic sources.

Common trap patterns (actionable):

• Scope traps: answer is correct for one sentence but wrong for the question’s paragraph/overall claim.
• Extreme language traps: always/never/must when text is cautious.
• Keyword traps: option repeats words but flips the relationship (cause vs effect).

Archetypes (described, not copied):

• “Missing word/phrase completion” cloze-style items
• “What is the author’s purpose/stance?” in short modern texts
• “Inference from evidence” in academic passages

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Listening (Updated TOEFL iBT)

Official task types (ETS):

• Listen and Choose a Response
• Listen to a Conversation
• Listen to an Announcement
• Listen to an Academic Talk

Official structure: ETS lists 47 items with 29 minutes base time (directions not included); time/items may vary as it adapts.

Adaptive reality (ETS): Listening is also multistage adaptive; second module adjusts based on performance.

Listening table (what to train)

Official note on pretest/unscored items: ETS states all test takers encounter unscored pretest questions, embedded in either Reading or Listening.

Archetypes (described):

• Choose the most appropriate conversational reply
• Identify speaker’s purpose/attitude
• Connect an example to a concept
• Predict the logical next step from an announcement

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Speaking (Updated TOEFL iBT)

Official task types (ETS):

• Listen and Repeat
• Take an Interview

Official structure: ETS lists 11 items with 8 minutes base time (directions not included).

Content shift (ETS): ETS describes speaking as including a simulated interview context, and “Listen and Repeat” as a foundational skill task.

Speaking table (what to train)

Scoring process (ETS): ETS describes Speaking (and Writing) as scored by an ETS proprietary AI scoring engine with human rating remaining an important component of the overall process.

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Writing (Updated TOEFL iBT)

Official task types (ETS):

• Build a Sentence
• Write an Email
• Write for an Academic Discussion

Official structure: ETS lists 12 items with 23 minutes base time (directions not included).

Content shift (ETS): ETS explicitly highlights writing for modern situations such as emails and online discussions, plus foundational tasks like Build a Sentence.

Writing table (what to train)

Scoring process (ETS): Writing responses are scored by ETS scoring engines with human rating as an important component overall.

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Preparation system: the highest-efficiency way to study (built around ETS realities)

This system is designed around what ETS explicitly signals: adaptive Reading/Listening, fast timing, and production scoring.

Phase 1 — Build “input speed” (Reading/Listening)

• Daily: 30–45 minutes timed reading + 30 minutes timed listening
• Goal: reduce hesitation and increase accuracy under time pressure

Phase 2 — Build “output reliability” (Speaking/Writing)

• Daily: 15–25 minutes speaking drills (repeat/shadow + interview answers)
• Daily: 20–30 minutes writing drills (sentence-building + email + discussion)

Phase 3 — Test simulations + error log

• 2–3 timed mixed sets per week
• Every mistake goes into an error log: why wrong → what rule → one re-drill

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Full study schedules (actionable)

4-week “fast but safe” plan (10–14 hrs/week)

Week 1 (setup + diagnostics)

• Day 1: confirm your target requirements (overall + section minima)
• Day 2: baseline timed sets: Reading (short), Listening (short), 2 speaking drills, 2 writing drills
• Days 3–7: drill foundations + build error log

Week 2 (speed + structure)

• Reading: 5 sessions (timed)
• Listening: 5 sessions (timed)
• Speaking: 6 sessions (repeat + interview)
• Writing: 6 sessions (sentence + email + discussion)

Week 3 (adaptive discipline + weak-area focus)

• 2 mixed timed sessions
• 3 days heavy focus on weakest section
• 2 days on second-weakest section

Week 4 (score conversion + final readiness)

• 2 full simulations (not back-to-back days)
• Tighten templates; reduce errors; polish pronunciation clarity

8-week “high score” plan (8–12 hrs/week)

• Weeks 1–2: foundation + diagnostics
• Weeks 3–5: skill-building + speed + output structure
• Weeks 6–7: simulations + targeted repair
• Week 8: final polishing + test-day routine rehearsal

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D) Format, Timing & Delivery

Exact test length and break structure (verify)

Updated TOEFL iBT (ETS official “base time”):

• Reading: 50 items / 30 min
• Listening: 47 items / 29 min
• Writing: 12 items / 23 min
• Speaking: 11 items / 8 min

ETS adds:

• “Test time does not include directions.”
• “Please allow approximately two hours to complete the test.”
• “As the test adapts, test time and items may vary.”

Breaks (ETS policy, 2025–2026 Bulletin):

• “There are no scheduled breaks in the TOEFL iBT test.”

Home Edition additional constraint:

• “Unscheduled breaks are not allowed.”

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Check-in minute-by-minute

Test center (typical flow; exact steps can vary by center)

ETS emphasizes strict security: personal items not allowed in testing room; inspections; scratch paper rules.

Recommended timing: plan extra time for check-in. (ETS regional guidance for the older format explicitly advised allowing 30 minutes for check-in; use that as a safe planning buffer even now.)

Minute-by-minute plan (practical):

• T–45 to T–30: arrive, find test center room, restroom
• T–30 to T–10: ID verification, photo, storage instructions, security checks (pockets/eyeglasses, etc.)
• T–10 to T–0: seated, headphone check/volume adjustment (ETS notes these steps exist)
• Test begins: Reading → Listening → Writing → Speaking (ETS states sequence)
• End: scores/choices shown; scratch paper returned

Home Edition (ETS rule-based timing)

From the ETS Bulletin:

• You can begin check-in up to 15 minutes before your scheduled time.
• You have up to 30 minutes after scheduled time to begin check-in; if not checked in by then, your test is canceled and fee not refunded.

You must have:

• cellphone/handheld mirror for check-in
• possibly a second camera device (if applicable)
• approved note-taking tool (whiteboard OR sheet protector paper + erasable marker)

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Tools allowed and rules (verify)

Test center:

• No personal items other than ID documents in the testing room (phones, watches, etc. not allowed).
• Scratch paper + pencils provided; you may not bring your own; scratch paper must not be used before the test/between sections/during breaks and must be returned.

Home Edition:

• No paper notes; only whiteboard or paper in transparent protector with erasable marker; you must erase notes at the end and show the proctor.
• Must disable screen-sharing/remote-access software (examples include Zoom/Skype/Teams/TeamViewer/Apple Remote Desktop) and keep it disabled.
• Must be alone, doors closed, remain in view; session recorded and proctored live.

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Common failure points + fixes (high-impact)

1. Name mismatch → you lose the fee Fix: match first + last name exactly; resolve issues before registering.

2. Late Home Edition check-in → canceled, no refund Fix: start check-in 10–15 minutes early; treat the 30-minute grace as emergency only.

3. Using paper notes at home → rules violation risk Fix: use whiteboard or sheet protector system only.

4. Unscheduled breaks at home → not allowed Fix: set up food/water/restroom beforehand.

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E) Scoring & Interpretation

Score scales by section and total (verify)

Updated TOEFL iBT scoring (ETS):

• You receive four section scores and an overall score on the 1–6 scale (half-point increments).
• The overall score is the average of the four section scores, rounded to the nearest half band.
• For a two-year transition period after Jan 2026, ETS also reports a comparable overall score on the 0–120 scale.

Score meaning and CEFR alignment (ETS institutional guide): ETS provides mapping of TOEFL 1–6 to CEFR and detailed comparisons (including IELTS-to-TOEFL reference tables).

Legacy scale: Scores before Jan 21, 2026 use the 0–120 total scale (sum of section scores).

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How scores are produced (important for strategy)

• Reading & Listening scoring uses raw points converted to reporting scale using equating/IRT methods; ETS explains this in its teacher FAQ for the enhanced test.
• Speaking/Writing scored via ETS scoring engines, with human rating still a critical component overall.

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How universities use scores and subscores (institution discretion)

Universities set:

• minimum overall score
• minimum section scores
• whether they accept superscoring (MyBest)

Examples (real variability):

• MIT notes a recommended TOEFL iBT minimum (and that departments may set their own).
• University of Toronto publishes both old and new minimums and rejects MyBest for evaluation.
• Oxford states it will not accept TOEFL tests taken from Jan 21, 2026 until it reviews the revised test.

Practical rule: always read the requirement on:

1. your exact program page
2. the graduate/undergraduate admissions language policy page
3. any “international applicants” page

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Score reporting timeline and sending scores (verify)

Faster scoring (ETS): ETS announced that from Jan 21, 2026, scores are available in about 72 hours / 3 days.

Unofficial scores (ETS Bulletin):

• At end of test, you can view unofficial Reading and Listening scores and see the date you can expect official scores.

Sending scores:

• Additional score reports cost money (see Costs section).
• Institutions may require official electronic reporting and may have institutional codes (example: Oxford provides an institution code for TOEFL reporting).

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Score validity duration (verify)

ETS Bulletin: TOEFL scores are valid for 2 years (“Score validity” section in the Bulletin).

Institution discretion: Some programs add extra rules (e.g., must be from a single test date, must be within X months). University of Toronto requires minimums achieved on a single date and rejects MyBest.

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Retake rules (verify)

ETS Bulletin:

• No limit to number of times you can take the test, but you cannot take it more than once in a 3-day period (applies even if you canceled scores).

When to retake (strategy guidance):

• Retake when your diagnostic shows you’re losing points to fixable execution errors (timing, template, clarity), not when you’re missing core comprehension.
• Retake planning must respect the 3-day rule plus score delivery (~72 hours).

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Immigration and professional licensing score use (verify)

Immigration (high-stakes: always verify on the government site)

• Canada Express Entry: IRCC lists accepted language tests (CELPIP General, IELTS General Training, TEF/TCF, etc.). TOEFL is not listed there.
• UK visas: GOV.UK states you may need a Secure English Language Test (SELT) from an approved provider for visa/citizenship routes. TOEFL iBT is typically not used for UKVI SELT purposes—verify on GOV.UK for your visa route.

• Australia:

• Australia does not accept fully online/at-home tests for visa purposes and lists TOEFL iBT Home Edition as an example of what it does not accept.

• Australia lists TOEFL iBT requirements (and notes you must select “Taking TOEFL for Australia” when registering for the test for validity under that pathway).

Professional licensing example (Pharmacy – NABP/FPGEC)

• NABP lists minimum TOEFL section scores and provides both pre- and post-Jan 21, 2026 standards (new 1–6 scale).
• NABP explicitly does not accept MyBest; all four sections must meet minimums in one session.

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F) Registration & Scheduling (Step-by-Step)

ETS account creation

1. Create your ETS account (TOEFL Bulletin: “You can register… by creating an ETS account”).
2. Enter your name exactly as on your ID (ETS repeats this rule in both the Bulletin and ID policy page).

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Choosing dates/locations (test center vs at home)

1. Decide delivery mode: test center vs Home Edition (ETS lists both options).
2. Confirm your country’s rules/availability inside ETS registration (availability varies; also Mainland China uses separate portals).

3. Choose date far enough ahead to:

4. meet application deadlines

5. allow for score reporting (~72 hours)
6. allow a retake buffer (3-day rule + scheduling availability)

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Registration deadlines (verify)

ETS Bulletin:

• Regular online registration closes 7 full days before the test date.
• Express online registration closes 2 days before the test date and adds an express fee.

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Reschedule/cancel policies and deadlines (verify)

ETS Bulletin:

• You must reschedule/cancel at least 4 full days before the test date.
• If you cancel by the 4-day deadline, you receive a 50% refund of the original test fee (with a Korea-specific exception schedule).

Rescheduling fee is listed by ETS as US$69 (service fee; taxes may apply).

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Avoid common registration errors (high-impact)

• Name mismatch (no refund): fix before paying.
• Wrong test date format (old vs updated TOEFL): confirm your test date is after Jan 21, 2026 and that your prep materials match.
• Home Edition environment risk: if you cannot guarantee a private room + stable system, consider test center to reduce cancellation/violation risk.

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G) Costs & Budgeting

Test fee and extra services fees (verify)

Base test fee: varies by location (ETS says to select your country/location to find your exact fee).

Common extra fees (ETS list):

• Express registration (within 7 days): US$49
• Rescheduling: US$69
• Reinstatement of canceled scores: US$20
• Additional score reports (per institution/agency): US$29 each
• Speaking or Writing score review: US$80 (each)
• Speaking + Writing score review: US$160
• Express Scoring: US$129

ETS notes prices may exclude VAT/taxes depending on jurisdiction.

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Budgeting template (copy/paste)

Total budget =

• Test fee (your country)

• (Optional) Express registration

• (Optional) Reschedule fee buffer
• (Optional) Additional score reports × number of extra recipients
• (Optional) Score review (rare; only if strongly justified)

Rule of thumb for safety: budget for one retake unless your deadline is extremely flexible.

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Fee reduction / discounts (how to handle accurately)

ETS acknowledges promotions/discounts may exist and that some services may be excluded under promotions. Because discounts change by region/time, the only safe approach is: use your ETS checkout flow to confirm current eligibility and terms.

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Final decision guidance (your high-efficiency “if/then” rules)

Who should take TOEFL vs IELTS vs Duolingo

• If your target program lists TOEFL iBT clearly and accepts the updated format → TOEFL is efficient.
• If your goal is immigration where TOEFL isn’t listed (e.g., Canada Express Entry) → prioritize the accepted tests (IELTS General Training / CELPIP General).
• If your institution accepts DET and you need speed/flexibility → DET can be viable, but confirm minimum subscores.

When accommodations are worth pursuing

• Worth it when documented needs materially affect timed performance; apply early and follow ETS’s process via your account.

When to retake

• Retake if your error log shows losses from fixable behaviors (timing, clarity, structure), and you can schedule legally (3-day rule) with score timing (~72 hours).

When plateaus mean strategy change (input vs output)

• Reading/Listening plateau → build comprehension speed + structure tracking (because these sections adapt and reward stable performance).
• Speaking/Writing plateau → tighten templates + reduce avoidable language errors; focus on clarity and direct answers.

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Below is a complete, no-skips, detailed “answer key” to the official TOEFL iBT FAQ sets that ETS publishes (test taker FAQs + the official ETS “Teacher Frequently Asked Questions for TOEFL iBT Enhancements” PDF). I’ll clearly separate ETS policy/facts vs what varies by country/institution and add practical steps, checklists, and decision guidance where it helps you act correctly.

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Part 1 — ETS TOEFL iBT Test Taker FAQs (Official)

A) About TOEFL iBT (ETS FAQ)

1) What is TOEFL iBT?

Answer (what it is):

• TOEFL iBT is ETS’s major English test used for study, work, and immigration, designed to measure academic English across Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing in a way that reflects classroom/academic use (not casual conversation only).

What this means in practice:

• It’s meant to predict whether you can understand academic materials, follow lectures, participate in discussions, and write academically—the same skills universities care about.

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2) What is TOEFL iBT Home Edition?

Answer (definition):

• Home Edition is the same TOEFL iBT test as test center, but taken at home and monitored online by a human proctor. ETS notes it may be referred to as “Home Edition,” “at home,” “test online,” etc.

Practical implications:

• “Same test” does not mean “same experience.” Home Edition has extra rules: room scan, app-based check-in, stricter equipment rules, sometimes a second camera.

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3) Why should I take TOEFL iBT?

Answer (why):

• TOEFL iBT scores are accepted by 13,000+ institutions in 160+ countries, and you can test at a center or at home with appointments up to 6 days a week.

Practical decision tip:

• If you’re choosing between tests, the deciding factor is almost always what your target institutions/agency accept (and whether they accept Home Edition). Start with acceptance, then choose the exam you can score highest on.

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4) What universities and other institutions accept TOEFL iBT scores?

Answer (acceptance scope):

• ETS repeats the “13,000+ in 160+ countries” claim, and says TOEFL is preferred worldwide; it also points to the TOEFL Destinations Search tool for finding accepting institutions.

Important reality check:

• Acceptance ≠ your program accepts it. Even if a university accepts TOEFL, a specific program (e.g., MBA vs MSCS) can have different minimums or special rules (MyBest acceptance, Home Edition acceptance, “no older than X years” policies). ETS explicitly says to check institutions directly for requirements.

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5) How is TOEFL iBT used by institutions?

Answer:

• Institutions use TOEFL iBT as a measure of academic English proficiency to ensure applicants can succeed in their programs.

How this shows up in admissions (typical patterns):

• Many schools use it as:

• a minimum cutoff (meet it or you don’t pass language requirement),

• a placement tool (decide if you need ESL support),
• occasionally a competitive factor (higher can help). ETS emphasizes that each institution sets its own standards.

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6) Can I take TOEFL iBT if I am under 15?

Answer:

• No age restriction. But content is at first-year university level. If you’re 15 or younger and testing at a test center, ETS suggests you be accompanied by a parent/authorized adult 18+ who must sign a release form at the test center.

Practical checklist:

• If under 15 at a test center:

• Bring your acceptable ID.

• Ensure the parent/guardian also has acceptable ID.
• Arrive early because check-in can take longer.

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7) Is TOEFL iBT accepted for visas?

Answer:

• TOEFL iBT can be used for visa English requirements in several countries, and ETS provides country pages/tips—but you should confirm with the government agency for the most current requirements.

Critical nuance from ETS’s own Bulletin:

• ETS notes a specific constraint: only tests taken before Jan 21, 2026 and TOEFL iBT Australia are currently approved for Australian visa purposes (per the Bulletin excerpt). That means visa rules can be format/date-sensitive.

Practical action:

• Treat visa use as high-stakes:

• Read the official immigration website rule.

• Confirm whether they accept TOEFL iBT vs TOEFL iBT Australia vs Home Edition and what test dates/scales are acceptable.
• Keep screenshots/records of the requirement page at the time you apply.

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8) Can I use TOEFL iBT to apply for a study permit in Canada?

Answer:

• Yes; ETS points you to their Canada information page.

Practical note:

• Canada policies can differ by category (study permit vs PR vs a specific professional body), so confirm the exact pathway requirements with IRCC or the relevant agency. ETS itself recommends checking official agencies.

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9) Is there research showing TOEFL iBT measures English proficiency effectively?

Answer:

• ETS points to the TOEFL Research Insight Series and the broader TOEFL Research Program page.

How to use this practically:

• If you’re writing an academic justification (e.g., your institution wants proof of validity), cite ETS’s research program documents and insight series because they are the official research hub.

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10) How are TOEFL iBT test items created?

Answer (high-level process):

• Items are developed collaboratively by researchers/test developers/psychometricians in a multi-step process to evaluate reliability and confirm validity; AI-assisted tools may support development, but items undergo rigorous human review.

Why this matters to you:

• ETS is explicitly signaling that:

• quality controls (psychometrics + human review) are central,

• AI may be used in development but isn’t a free-for-all—human oversight remains part of their published process.

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B) Taking the Test (ETS FAQ)

1) When and where can I take TOEFL iBT?

Answer:

• You can take it almost anywhere, at a test center or at home, with appointments up to 6 days a week; find dates/locations via the Schedule page or ETS account.

Actionable step-by-step (fast):

1. Decide test center vs at home (based on your environment, equipment, and rule tolerance).
2. Check availability in your region inside ETS account.
3. If Home Edition, confirm your equipment/space meets requirements before paying.

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2) How long does the test take?

ETS test taker FAQ:

• “Just under 2 hours” for the test itself; plan 2.5 hours including ~30 minutes for check-in.

ETS teacher FAQ adds detail:

• Overall about 2 hours, including steps like adjusting headphone volume (and other non-section overhead).

Practical planning:

• Block 3 hours on your calendar anyway:

• Home Edition check-in delays happen (identity verification, room scan, tech).

• Test center check-in can also run long if lines/ID questions.

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3) How often can I take TOEFL iBT?

ETS FAQ: You can take it as often as you like, but not more than once in a 3‑day period.

ETS Bulletin clarifies enforcement details:

• No limit to number of attempts, but you cannot test more than once in a 3‑day period, even if you canceled scores. Also you can’t register a new test within 3 days of an existing appointment.

Practical retake strategy:

• Don’t schedule “too close” retakes unless you have a targeted fix (e.g., pronunciation coaching, timed writing structure). Otherwise you burn attempts and money with minimal score gain.

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4) I have a disability. How do I apply for accommodations?

ETS FAQ: See the accommodations page for available accommodations and how to request them.

ETS accommodations process (key points):

• You must have accommodations approved before you can schedule/register your test appointment.
• ETS recommends submitting as early as possible; ETS states documentation review takes ~6 weeks after complete paperwork is received, and additional documentation can add another ~6 weeks.
• The Bulletin also indicates review can take approximately four to six weeks (so expect variation).

Practical “should I pursue accommodations?” decision guide:

• Pursue accommodations if you have a documented need that materially affects:

• reading speed/visual access,

• hearing access,
• motor control/typing,
• medical needs (breaks, snacks, equipment).
• Start early because timing is the biggest risk (approval must happen before scheduling).

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5) Can I take TOEFL iBT in mainland China?

ETS FAQ (yes, but special rules):

• Test center: register via NEEA; you need an NEEA account.
• Home Edition: must purchase a voucher from HKEAA and purchase test via ETS account; ETS points to toefl.cn/at-home.

Practical note:

• Mainland China is a major exception zone—follow China-specific instructions rather than general ETS steps.

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6) I couldn’t complete my test due to a technical issue. What do I do?

ETS FAQ:

• If you haven’t received next-step instructions, contact TOEFL Services using your country contact page.

Practical checklist (what to record immediately):

• Test date/time, location (Home vs center), error messages, screenshots, and the exact step where it failed.
• If Home Edition: note internet interruptions, proctor messages, and whether your progress saved. ETS indicates they support reconnection, saving progress, and recovery features.

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7) What happens if I quit the test before completing it?

ETS FAQ (scoring rule):

• If you don’t complete at least one Reading question, one Listening question, one Speaking task, and one Writing task, your test will not be scored—if you skip any section, no sections are scored.

Practical:

• If anything goes wrong, try to complete at least the minimum tasks in each section unless the proctor tells you to stop. Otherwise you can lose the entire attempt.

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8) Do I have to complete all sections? Can I take only Reading?

Answer: You must complete all four sections; skipping any section means no sections are scored.

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9) How can I make sure I properly answer the Speaking questions?

ETS FAQ:

• Understand what the questions ask and what raters look for; ETS points you to the Speaking section page for info/tips.

Practical method (high-efficiency):

• For each speaking task type, practice with:

• a strict timer,

• a fixed structure (e.g., claim → reason → example → wrap),
• recording + self-review focusing on clarity and completeness.

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10) How can I make sure I speak enough during Speaking?

ETS FAQ:

• Practice speaking tasks with a timer; if you’re not speaking for full time, practice making responses longer.

Practical technique:

• Build “extension habits”:

• add one concrete example,

• add one consequence/result sentence,
• restate your main point in different words near the end.

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C) Test Preparation (ETS FAQ)

1) How can I prepare for the TOEFL iBT test?

Answer:

• ETS offers official prep; see the “Prepare for the TOEFL iBT Test” page.

Practical:

• Prioritize official materials first because they match TOEFL’s exact construct and style.

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2) Where can I find free TOEFL iBT test prep?

Answer:

• ETS points to the same official prep hub page (which includes free offerings).

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3) Where can I find a TOEFL iBT tutor?

Answer:

• ETS collaborated with Preply to provide specialized tutor training; ETS points to a list of tutors who have an official Teaching TOEFL iBT Skills certificate (via Preply).

Practical hiring checklist (to avoid wasting money):

• Ask any tutor to show:

• a weekly plan tied to your target score,

• recordings and rubric-based feedback for speaking/writing,
• error logs and drills for your specific weaknesses.

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D) Scores and Score Reports (ETS FAQ)

1) When will my scores be available?

ETS FAQ:

• Official scores in your ETS account 3 days after your test; the exact date is shown at end of test.
• PDF score report available 24–48 hours after official scores.

Practical timeline planning:

• If you have a deadline, build in:

• 3 days for your score posting, plus

• additional delivery time for institutions (see score sending timelines below).

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2) Where can I find my TOEFL iBT scores?

ETS FAQ:

• End of test: you can see unofficial Reading and Listening scores.
• Official scores: posted in ETS account 3 days after test.
• Paper score report mailed if you requested it.

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3) How can I get scores faster?

ETS FAQ:

• Express shipping exists in several countries/territories for paper score reports (for a fee). Express reports typically delivered 2–5 business days after scores are confirmed (or after an additional score report is ordered), if available in your location.

Practical warning:

• Express shipping affects paper delivery, not the standard 3-day score posting to your ETS account.

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4) What information is on my score report?

ETS FAQ:

• Shows your total and section scores from one test date plus MyBest (highest section scores across valid test dates and the sum).
• ETS account also provides: section proficiency levels, reading/listening question-type feedback, speaking/writing skill insights, and sample high-scoring responses with explanations.

Practical:

• Use the “question-type feedback” to diagnose why your score is low (vocab vs inference vs function, etc.)—it helps you change training rather than just “practice more.”

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5) What do institutions see when I send scores?

ETS FAQ:

• Institutions see your test-day section/total scores and your MyBest scores.
• Institutions receiving scores via TOEFL Access may also have access to Speaking and Writing samples.

Practical implication:

• Your spoken response quality matters beyond a number in some cases—your audio and writing content may be accessible to institutions through TOEFL channels.

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6) How long are scores valid?

ETS FAQ: Valid 2 years; after 2 years ETS won’t report or send them.

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7) Can I use MyBest (superscores)?

ETS FAQ: Depends on each institution; you must check.

Practical:

• Some schools accept MyBest, some require “single test date,” and some accept MyBest but only within a time window. Always verify at the program level.

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8) Can I get a PDF score report?

ETS FAQ: Yes—available 24–48 hours after scores post.

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9) Why are end-of-test Reading/Listening scores unofficial?

ETS FAQ: ETS runs quality checks/statistical analysis; scores could change afterward, so they’re unofficial until released.

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10) Will my unofficial Reading/Listening score change?

ETS FAQ: Rare but possible, due to required quality checks/statistical analysis.

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11) What is a “good” TOEFL iBT score?

ETS FAQ: The “good” score is what your institutions require; requirements vary. ETS also notes some schools may convert older 0–120 expectations to the newer 1–6 scale (e.g., 100 → 5, 80 → 4), but each university decides its own conversions.

Practical decision rule:

• Define “good” as:

• your program’s minimum + a safety margin (often +2–5 points on the old 120 scale, or +0.5 on the new 1–6 scale, depending on competitiveness and risk). (Your margin is strategy; the requirement itself is institution discretion.)

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12) What do my scores mean? How do I interpret them?

ETS FAQ includes both score systems:

• For tests on the older scale: each section is 0–30, total is the sum (0–120).
• As of Jan 21, 2026: each section is 1–6 in 0.5 increments, and the total is the average of the four section scores, rounded to the nearest half band; ETS gives examples (5.125 → 5; 5.25 → 5.5).
• ETS’s score breakdown page also states: for a two-year transition after Jan 2026, test takers receive a comparable overall score on the 0–120 scale too.

Practical interpretation tip:

• Under the new scale, improving one section by 0.5 raises your overall average by 0.125 (because 0.5 ÷ 4). That means you often need improvements in multiple sections to move the overall by 0.5.

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13) How do I know what scores institutions accept?

ETS FAQ: Institutions set their own requirements; check directly (most post online).

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14) How do I send scores? How much does it cost?

ETS policy (sending mechanics):

• Your test fee includes up to 4 free official score reports to recipients you choose before the test; you can add/delete recipients until 10 p.m. local test center time on the day before the test.

Cost (important ETS-page discrepancy you must verify):

• ETS’s “Sending Your Scores” page and “Understanding Scores” page state US$25 per institution/agency for additional score reports.
• ETS’s “TOEFL iBT Test Fees” page lists US$29 each for additional score reports.

How to handle this safely (so you’re never surprised):

1. Treat the price shown in your ETS account checkout as the final truth for your region/date.
2. If your budget is tight, check the fee before test day so you can decide whether to use the 4 free recipients or pay later.

Extra rule that affects strategy:

• ETS says if you choose any institution/agency to receive scores, you cannot request a score review (Writing/Speaking).

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15) How do I know an institution received my scores?

ETS FAQ:

• ETS says official score reports are sent to designated recipients within 11 business days after your test; may be sooner depending on delivery method; you should confirm with the institution.

More detail ETS gives elsewhere (delivery methods):

• Recipient delivery timing varies by method:

• ETS Data Manager: 4–8 business days

• Server feeds: 8–10 business days
• Postal mail: 10–12 business days + mailing time (with longer mail time outside the U.S.).

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16) Why might an institution not receive my scores?

ETS FAQ reasons:

• If scores are canceled before release, they won’t be sent.
• Cancellations can be due to irregularities, ID discrepancies, misconduct, plagiarism, or other validity issues.
• If scores are canceled after being sent, institutions are notified.
• ETS directs inquiries to the Office of Testing Integrity (OTI) contact details.

Practical prevention checklist:

• Ensure your registration name matches your ID exactly (excluding accents) and bring acceptable ID.
• Don’t use memorized writing, templates that include memorized language, or any prohibited assistance.
• Follow proctor rules strictly, especially at home (camera visibility, no one entering room, no prohibited devices).

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17) Can I cancel my scores before an institution sees them?

ETS FAQ:

• At end of test (after unofficial R/L), you can choose report or cancel.
• If you cancel, you cancel all sections, receive no refund, and nothing is reported.
• If you report, they cannot be canceled.
• You can reinstate canceled scores in ETS account within 60 days for a fee; reinstatement + reporting happens ~3 weeks after request/payment.
• Additional score report orders cannot be canceled once placed.

Practical decision:

• Only cancel if you are sure the score will hurt you and you will retake. Otherwise, reporting often gives you usable data (and MyBest potential).

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18) Can I appeal my scores?

ETS FAQ (what you can do):

• You can request a score review for Speaking and/or Writing within 30 days, for a fee.
• You cannot request score review if you have already requested scores be sent to any institution/agency.
• Reading and Listening cannot be reviewed/appealed.

Important: “appeal” has two meanings

• Score review (your performance on Speaking/Writing) is different from
• OTI score cancellation decisions, which generally can’t be appealed except as stated in OTI communications.

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19) Will institutions see all my scores if I took TOEFL more than once?

ETS FAQ:

• Institutions see what you choose to send.
• When you send scores, you send one specific test date, and that report includes MyBest (which may include section scores from different dates).

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E) Testing Policies and Procedures — General (ETS FAQ)

1) Can I take notes during the test?

ETS FAQ: Yes, notes are allowed in each section; materials differ for test center vs home.

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2) What can I use to take notes?

ETS FAQ:

• Test center: scratch paper + pencils provided; you can’t bring your own; you can request more scratch paper.
• Home: whiteboard or paper inside a transparent sheet protector with an erasable marker; surface should be small/manageable and easy for proctor to view.

Practical:

• Train with the same constraints you’ll have on test day (e.g., whiteboard only). If you train with unlimited paper, your method may fail at home.

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3) Can I use writing assistance software?

ETS FAQ: No.

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4) Can I memorize answers for Writing responses?

ETS FAQ: No—memorized answers violate policies; ETS raters can recognize memorization; ETS uses detection software to identify similarity to outside sources or other test takers.

Practical risk:

• Even if your memorized response is “good English,” ETS may treat it as invalid and cancel/withhold scores if it triggers similarity flags.

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5) Can I use an essay template?

ETS FAQ (nuanced):

• Templates can help organize thoughts, but if they do more than establish a general structure, you may violate policies (must use your own words; detection software looks for similarity; risk of producing similar responses to others). ETS strongly recommends producing your own responses during the test.

Safe approach:

• Use a “structure template” in your head (like 2–3 paragraph plan), but do not paste memorized phrases/sentences.

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6) Is there a break?

ETS FAQ: No scheduled breaks; plan accordingly.

Home Edition adds: no breaks allowed unless approved accommodation.

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7) Which IDs can I use in my country?

ETS FAQ: Depends on country; see ID requirements page.

Key ETS rules you must follow (high-stakes):

• Registration name must exactly match ID name (excluding accents). If not, you may be denied and not refunded.
• ID must generally be original, physical, government-issued, valid (not expired), include full name + DOB, photo, signature.
• ETS lists universally unacceptable IDs (e.g., student ID as primary, birth certificate, credit card, temporary IDs, etc.).

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8) Can I use my phone during the test?

ETS FAQ: No.

• Test center: stored with personal items for the duration.
• Home: after check-in, proctor directs you to store it for duration.

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9) Can I wear headphones/earbuds?

ETS FAQ:

• Test center: you will be given headphones; personal headphones/earbuds not permitted.
• Home: use computer speakers; headphones/earbuds not permitted.

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10) Consequences for violating rules?

ETS FAQ: ETS can cancel scores, ban you from testing, and refer to law enforcement as appropriate.

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11) Why were my scores canceled?

ETS FAQ: OTI will notify you via email with the reason; ETS provides OTI contact details.

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12) My scores were canceled. How can I appeal?

ETS FAQ: In most cases, cancellations cannot be appealed; refer to OTI communications for available options.

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13) Why is TOEFL security so strict?

ETS FAQ: To ensure fairness, equivalent opportunity, and prevent unfair advantage; test security is critical to valid scores.

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14) I saw another test taker break rules. What should I do?

ETS FAQ: Contact ETS ASAP after test; info is confidential; ETS provides reporting email/phone; cheating/fraud is investigated and may be prosecuted.

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F) Testing Policies and Procedures — Home Edition (ETS FAQ)

1) What should I do to prepare for Home Edition?

ETS checklist (before test day):

• Use My TOEFL Home dashboard to:

• download TOEFL Test App + run equipment check 48 hours before,

• verify identity using IDVaaS if applicable,
• review Home Edition rules,
• learn second camera setup,
• check dashboard regularly for updates.

ETS checklist (test day):

• Have:

• valid ID matching registration name,

• desktop/laptop,
• clean/organized workspace with only allowed items,
• mobile device for second camera,
• reliable power/fully charged devices.

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2) What equipment and operating systems can I use?

ETS Home Edition FAQ (hardware rules):

• Must use desktop/laptop (no tablet/mobile/hybrid such as Surface).
• Allowed cords/hardware are tightly limited (and having extras can stop the test/cancel scores).
• Only one monitor/screen and one keyboard.

Software rules (must do):

• Download TOEFL Test App and run equipment check 48 hours before.
• Quit all apps, disable screen-sharing/remote access/conferencing/social/collaboration apps; if used at any time, test may be paused/stopped and scores canceled.

Operating system (ETS has a conflict you must verify):

• Home Edition FAQ says Windows 10+ and Mac OS X 10.13+.
• ETS “At Home Requirements” page says Windows 11+ and Mac OS X 10.13+.

Safest action:

• Treat the At Home Requirements page + the TOEFL Test App equipment check as the controlling requirement for your test day.

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3) What is the TOEFL Test App, and how do I install it?

ETS FAQ:

• It’s the single app that guides Home Edition; install via ETS link; use step-by-step instructions; system requirements are on the at-home requirements page.

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4) What if equipment check fails?

ETS FAQ:

• Use the equipment check support site for troubleshooting.
• If it fails on test day and you can’t solve it, continue check-in; proctor will help.

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5) What if I have technical issues during the test?

ETS FAQ: ETS support includes real-time proctor support, reconnection attempts, saving progress, and recovery features.

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6) How do I verify my identity with the IDVaaS app?

ETS step-by-step (must do at least 48 hours before test):

• Download app via QR code (email or My TOEFL Home).
• Open app and scan QR; allow camera.
• Accept terms + biometric consent.
• Photograph your ID (well-lit, no glare).
• Scan chip if your ID has one.
• Take selfie (straight on, neutral expression; remove face coverings unless religious/medical).
• Review → “Use this photo” or retake → submit. On test day, proctor matches your pre-verified identity.

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7) When should I verify identity with IDVaaS?

ETS FAQ:

• No later than 48 hours before test.
• Recommended as soon as possible.
• If you register <48 hours before, verify immediately.
• If not done before test day, it adds time and may delay your start because you must complete verification before check-in.

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8) What if IDVaaS can’t verify my country’s documents?

ETS FAQ: Review ID requirements; on test day show acceptable ID to proctor; proctor completes verification.

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9) What happens if ID verification fails?

ETS FAQ: You may need to verify again, or contact support and provide additional documentation.

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10) How long is ID verification valid?

ETS FAQ: If you verified for another test, it may still be valid; you’ll need to re-verify if it expires before your test date; if your ID expires before test day, you must re-verify with valid ID.

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11) How do I set up the second camera?

ETS FAQ highlights:

• Practice before test day.
• Need mobile device (iOS 12+/Android 8+), charged, stable internet (min 1 Mbps), sturdy support object; prohibited supports include tape/glue, homemade stands, unstable items, objects that hide materials.
• Connect via QR code during check-in; allow camera/mic.
• Place in landscape mode, arm’s length away, positioned to show your screen/keyboard/mouse, both hands typing, and side of face; placed on side closest to wall so room visible.

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12) What if second camera disconnects?

ETS FAQ:

• During check-in: rescan QR.
• During test: proctor stops exam temporarily and gives reconnection instructions.

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13) How can I make sure my room is ready?

ETS FAQ + Requirements page combined:

• Private quiet room, alone, no one enters; not a public space.
• Standard chair + desk/table.
• Clear workspace (only allowed items).
• Door visible; doors closed; cover transparent walls/doors/windows; walls clear of test-related materials.
• Test equipment.
• Notes: one whiteboard OR one sheet of paper inside a transparent protector + erasable marker; show erased notes at end; no loose paper notes.

Critical warning from ETS:

• If you don’t meet requirements on test day, you may not be able to test and may receive no refund/free reschedule.

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14) What can I wear and what personal items can I have?

ETS FAQ + Requirements page:

• Allowed: wedding ring; religious headwear if ears visible.
• Remove: other jewelry/accessories; no earbuds/headphones.
• Turn off extra phones; second-camera phone placed behind you out of reach (if required).
• Eyeglasses checked.
• Face/ears visible; no face masks during check-in or session (per requirements page).

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15) What is Home Edition check-in like?

ETS FAQ sequence:

• Start test from confirmation email or My TOEFL Home; Test App launches.
• Enter virtual waiting room.
• Connect second camera.
• Proctor-assisted identity verification.
• Room scan: walls/corners, under desk, entire workspace.
• Set up second camera.

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16) How should I act so I don’t look suspicious?

ETS FAQ rules:

• Stay visible on both cameras.
• No talking/reading aloud except Speaking.
• No breaks unless accommodation.
• Keep screen/face/hands/keyboard/mouse in view.
• Stay seated; avoid sudden movements; no one enters room; don’t block or leave camera view.

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G) Payments (ETS FAQ)

1) How can I pay?

ETS FAQ: Via ETS account: credit/debit, e-check, PayPal, AliPay; see Bulletin for full policy.

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2) What is the refund policy?

ETS FAQ + Bulletin:

• Cancel by the 4-day deadline → automatic 50% refund of the original test fee.
• Refunds in currency paid; no cash refunds.
• Processed automatically back to original payment method.
• No refund if improper registration or missing required ID.
• Korea has a special policy (full refund within 7 days after registration; then 50% until 4 days before; none after).

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3) Are there discounts?

ETS FAQ: Sometimes ETS/affiliates run promotional discounts in certain countries/regions; follow TOEFL on social media to know.

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4) Can I purchase from a third-party seller?

ETS FAQ: In some countries/regions, you can buy vouchers from authorized third-party sellers; vouchers are used as payment in your ETS account.

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5) Can someone else purchase my test for me?

ETS FAQ: Test must be purchased through your account using a valid payment method or voucher.

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Part 2 — ETS “Teacher Frequently Asked Questions for TOEFL iBT Enhancements” (Official PDF)

This set is especially important because it contains the concrete blueprint changes for the “enhanced TOEFL iBT” (including multistage adaptive Reading/Listening and new task types), as well as the new scoring scale.

Student Experience (Teacher FAQ)

1) How many questions in each section? How much time per section?

Answer (numbers + time): The table ETS provides (for the enhanced TOEFL iBT) states:

• Reading (multistage)

• Task types: Complete the Words, Read in Daily Life, Read an Academic Passage

• Number of items: Up to 50

• Estimated time: Up to 30 minutes

• Listening (multistage)

• Task types: Listen and Choose a Response, Listen to a Conversation, Listen to an Announcement, Listen to an Academic Talk

• Number of items: Up to 47

• Estimated time: Up to 29 minutes

• Writing

• Task types: Build a Sentence, Write an Email, Write for an Academic Discussion

• Number of items: Up to 12

• Estimated time: Up to 23 minutes

• Speaking

• Task types: Listen and Repeat, Take an Interview

• Number of items: Up to 11
• Estimated time: Up to 8 minutes

Two ETS footnotes you must not miss:

• The number of items may change before Jan 21, 2026 due to optimization.
• Estimated time does not include time for tasks like adjusting audio volume or reading introductory instructions.

Practical pacing reality:

• The section clocks add up to about 90 minutes of section time; the rest of the “about 2 hours” experience is check-in, instructions, volume checks, transitions, etc.

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2) Will all test takers receive pretest questions? Will someone get pretest in both Reading and Listening?

Answer:

• Pretest questions are unscored and used for research.
• All test takers encounter pretest questions embedded in either Reading or Listening.

Practical implications:

• You cannot reliably identify pretest items. Treat every item seriously.
• Because pretest is only in one of the two sections, one of Reading/Listening may feel slightly longer/heavier depending on your form.

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3) Why does time vary so much for Reading and Listening? How much time for the entire test?

Answer:

• Variation is linked to embedded pretest items in either Reading or Listening.
• Overall, it takes about 2 hours to complete the test, including steps like adjusting headphone volume.

Practical planning:

• Always block more than 2 hours (especially Home Edition) because check-in and proctor procedures can add time.

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4) What will be the test sequence?

Answer (sequence):

• Reading → Listening → Writing → Speaking.

Practical training implication:

• Your “energy curve” matters:

• Start strong on Reading/Listening (accuracy-focused).

• Writing requires typing stamina.
• Speaking is last—practice speaking when tired so your performance doesn’t collapse late.

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Content (Teacher FAQ)

5) How has the content of TOEFL iBT changed?

Answer (what’s broader/new):

• Reading passages now include academic sources and everyday sources like newspapers, magazines, websites, social media.
• Listening includes academic talks and campus announcements and social interactions.
• Writing includes common situations like emails and online discussions.
• Speaking includes simulated interview speaking.
• There are also task types measuring foundational language abilities: Complete the Words, Build a Sentence, Listen and Repeat.

Practical “what to train now”:

• Don’t only train long academic passages/lectures. Train:

• short functional reading (announcements, web-style info),

• listening for intent in practical campus/social contexts,
• concise writing with clear purpose (emails/discussion posts),
• interview-style speaking.

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6) What upgraded audio equipment will be used in test centers?

Answer:

• Test centers worldwide are replacing headphones with custom “stereophones” developed with audio brand Koss to improve listening quality.

Practical:

• Better audio reduces “I couldn’t hear” issues, but you still need:

• fast note-taking,

• ability to follow accents/speeds,
• calm focus in a lab environment.

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7) Will note-taking still be allowed?

Answer:

• Yes.
• Test center: scratch paper + pencils provided; you can’t bring your own scratch paper/pens/pencils.
• Home Edition: erasable marker on whiteboard or blank paper inside a transparent sheet protector.

Practical:

• Home Edition note-taking is limited. Train with the exact allowed setup to avoid panic on test day.

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Scoring (Teacher FAQ)

8) Which sections will be multistage adaptive?

Answer: Reading and Listening; both are multistage adaptive and the second module adjusts based on performance.

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9) How is multistage adaptive implemented?

Answer (mechanism):

• Adaptation happens between stages/modules:

• You take a first module.

• Based on your performance, you get a second module with difficulty more aligned to your ability.
• You cannot skip/go back between stages/modules.
• Final score uses both stages and reflects your proficiency.

Practical strategy shift:

• You must treat the first module as high stakes:

• If you underperform early, you may be routed to an easier second module and limit your maximum score potential (the exact scoring uses difficulty + correct answers).

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10) How will Reading and Listening scores be calculated?

Answer:

• Based on:

• total number correct across the two stages/modules, and

• the difficulty level of the questions.

Practical:

• “Accuracy” matters more than ever. Random guessing and rushing early can hurt you twice: fewer correct + potentially lower difficulty routing.

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11) How is the reported scale score calculated?

Answer (full scoring logic, summarized but complete):

• In Reading/Listening:

• Each correct answer earns a raw point.

• Raw scores are converted to a reported scale through equating.

• ETS uses Item Response Theory (IRT) equating:

  • items are calibrated and stored in an item pool,
  • forms are assembled to content + statistical specs,
  • a base form’s raw-to-scale conversion is established,
  • new forms are IRT true-score equated to adjust raw-to-scale,
  • equated raw scores are then converted using the base form conversion.

  • Equating keeps scores comparable by adjusting for difficulty differences from:

  • the multistage adaptive design, and

  • small difficulty differences across test forms.
  • In Writing/Speaking:

• Raw points are linked to the reported score scale through weighted equipercentile linking procedures, accounting for minor difficulty variation across versions, so scaled scores reflect the same ability regardless of test date/tasks.

Practical takeaway:

• You’re not just scored on “how many right,” but on a statistically controlled scale designed so a given score means the same level of ability across forms and adaptive paths.

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12) How will Speaking and Writing responses be scored?

Answer:

• Speaking/Writing scored by ETS proprietary AI scoring engine according to scoring guides.
• Automated scoring integrates advanced NLP, grounded in years of research and operational expertise.
• Human rating remains critical because automated engines are trained on human ratings; human ratings set the standard and provide oversight to ensure accuracy/reliability.

Practical preparation implication:

• Aim for performance that is:

• clearly organized,

• easy to follow,
• consistent grammar and vocabulary,
• on-topic and complete—because both human and automated systems reward clarity and task fulfillment.

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13) Where can I find Speaking and Writing scoring guides?

Answer: The scoring guides are provided in the TOEFL iBT prep resources and score-interpretation materials within your ETS account. Use the latest versions tied to the 2026+ format.

Practical:

• Use scoring guides as your “training targets”:

• build a checklist of what a top response includes,

• practice under time,
• self-score with the guide language,
• then get external feedback to reduce blind spots.

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14) Where can I find sample Speaking and Writing responses?

Answer: ETS notes that sample responses for the enhanced format are being released. Check the TOEFL iBT prep hub in your ETS account and use the newest samples aligned to the 2026+ tasks.

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15) Will the test use a new scoring scale?

ETS teacher FAQ:

• Enhanced TOEFL iBT uses a 1–6 scale in 0.5 increments.
• Total score is the average of the section scores, rounded to nearest half band.

ETS score page adds an important transition detail:

• For two years after Jan 2026, you also receive a comparable overall score on the 0–120 scale.

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16) Are current TOEFL iBT score/performance descriptors being revised?

Answer: ETS indicates updated performance descriptors for the 1–6 scale are coming. Once posted, use them as your rubric for speaking/writing and for interpreting your section scores.

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Test Prep Materials/Resources (Teacher FAQ)

17) What sample materials are available?

Answer: ETS provides official prep for the enhanced TOEFL iBT including sample questions and full-length interactive tests in the TOEFL iBT prep hub. Use these first because they match the current tasks and timing.

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18) Where can I find the new test prep resources? When will they be available?

Answer: The updated prep resources are listed in the TOEFL iBT prep hub within your ETS account and are organized by task type. Choose materials that explicitly reference the 2026+ updates.

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19) Who do I contact for questions about test prep materials/resources?

Answer: Use the TOEFL Services contact channel shown in your ETS account for your country/region. Include your full name, test date, and registration details to speed resolution.

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Two “must-not-miss” safety checklists (because these FAQs hide the biggest risks)

1) Score validity & rule-compliance checklist

• Registration name matches ID exactly (excluding accents) or you may be denied/no refund.
• Don’t use memorized writing or template language that isn’t your own.
• At home: follow camera/room rules strictly; no one enters; no headphones; no unauthorized apps; no breaks unless approved accommodation.

2) “Do I send scores now or later?” decision checklist

• If you name any score recipients, ETS says you can’t request a score review (Writing/Speaking).
• You have 4 free recipients if chosen before the deadline (10 p.m. the day before).
• Additional score report fee is shown inconsistently across ETS pages ($25 vs $29), so verify inside your ETS account checkout.

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12-Week TOEFL iBT Study Plan (Busy/Working Students, Still Have a Life)

This plan is built for the enhanced TOEFL iBT used from Jan 21, 2026 onward (new task types; Reading/Listening are multistage adaptive; total testing time about 2 hours).

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1) Know what you’re preparing for (so you don’t study the wrong tasks)

Enhanced TOEFL iBT (2026+) section structure (high level):

Two critical format realities your study must match:

• Reading + Listening are multistage adaptive (Module 2 difficulty depends on Module 1 performance), and you can’t skip or go back between stages.
• You may see unscored pretest items embedded in either Reading or Listening, so stamina + composure matters.

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2) Weekly time budget designed for “busy but consistent”

Core plan (recommended): ~6 hours/week

• Mon–Thu: 45 minutes/day (3 hours total)
• Sat: 2.5–3 hours (deep practice + review)
• Sun: OFF (real rest)

If you have a heavier week (minimum viable)

Do 20 minutes/day (yes, that’s enough to prevent backsliding):

• 10 min: timed micro-drill (one task type)
• 10 min: error-log review + 5 flashcards (spelling/vocab/grammar)

Why this works (evidence-based):

• Short, frequent sessions with retrieval practice (testing yourself) beat rereading/“passive study.”
• Spacing practice across days improves long-term retention more than cramming.
• Mixing skills (“interleaving”) produces stronger transfer than studying one skill in large blocks.

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3) Your “busy-person” study system (non-negotiable)

A. One tracking sheet (takes 10 minutes to set up)

Create an Error Log with columns:

• Date | Section/Task | What I chose/wrote/said | Correct / Better answer | Why I missed it | Fix rule | 2 similar questions scheduled (dates)

This turns mistakes into point gains (instead of repeated mistakes).

B. “Finish-with-recall” rule (3 minutes)

End every session by writing from memory:

• 3 things I learned
• 1 rule I keep forgetting
• 1 target for next session

This is retrieval practice (high ROI).

C. Speaking improvement is recording-based

ETS itself recommends practicing by recording yourself, listening back, and using checklists; and also using shadowing for Listen-and-Repeat style skills.

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4) The weekly template (what you do on each day)

Mon (Reading)

• Complete the Words + Daily Life + 1 short academic passage work

Tue (Listening)

• Listen & Choose a Response + Conversation/Announcement + 1 Academic Talk

Wed (Writing)

• Build a Sentence (grammar/punctuation) + one writing task (Email or Academic Discussion)

Thu (Speaking)

• Listen and Repeat practice + Virtual Interview answers (4-question set)

Sat (Deep practice + review) Alternate weekly:

• Week A: Reading+Listening timed (modules) + review
• Week B: Writing+Speaking timed + review Every 2–3 weeks: full-length simulation

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5) 12-week plan (week-by-week, with exact outputs)

Week 1 — Setup + Baseline (diagnostic)

Goal: establish your current level and your “biggest leak.”

Mon (45m):

• Learn the task types + download official materials
• Start Error Log (empty is fine)

Tue (45m): Reading baseline

• Do a timed Reading Module (don’t pause)
• Log mistakes by type (vocab-in-context? main idea? detail?)

Wed (45m): Listening baseline

• Do 1–2 task sets; note where you miss implied meaning vs details

Thu (45m): Speaking & Writing baseline

• Record 1 Listen-and-Repeat set + 2 interview answers
• Write 1 short response (Email OR Academic Discussion)

Sat (2.5–3h): Full practice test (preferred) Use ETS practice tests aligned to Jan 21, 2026 format.

• Take it in one sitting if possible (builds stamina for the real ~2-hour test).
• Review mistakes the same day (at least Reading/Listening)

Milestone: Identify your weakest 1–2 tasks, not just weakest section.

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Week 2 — Foundations week (spelling, sentence control, “fast comprehension”)

Goal: raise accuracy on the new “foundational” tasks that many people ignore.

Reading focus: Complete the Words (spelling patterns, word parts) + short daily-life reading. Writing focus: Build a Sentence mechanics (clauses, connectors, punctuation). Speaking focus: Listen-and-Repeat accuracy—repeat exactly (not paraphrase).

Weekly minimum outputs:

• 4× short Complete-the-Words sets
• 30 Build-a-Sentence items
• 3 Listen-and-Repeat recordings (self-check with scoring guide)

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Week 3 — Reading strategy week (speed + accuracy)

Goal: stop losing time; stop “almost correct” answers.

Use ETS task definitions to train exactly what appears:

• Daily Life passages are short (15–150 words) and can be non-linear (signs/posts/ads).
• Academic passages are ~200 words, expository.

Core skills to drill (rotate):

• Main idea in 15 seconds
• Scan for exact detail (names, numbers, cause/effect)
• Word meaning from context + word parts (prefix/suffix/root)

Sat deep practice: timed Reading (Module 1 + Module 2 style). Remember: you cannot return to Module 1 once you begin Module 2 (train this habit in practice).

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Week 4 — Listening strategy week (note-taking + inference)

Goal: answer from meaning, not memory panic.

Train the actual Listening tasks:

• Conversation: 2 questions.
• Announcement: 2 questions (academic context).
• Academic Talk: 4 questions; heard once.
• Listen & Choose a Response: question/statement is heard only; choose best written response.

Note-taking rule (busy-friendly): Write only: topic + 2–3 key points + 1 example + speaker purpose.

Sat deep practice: timed Listening modules + review (especially wrong answers).

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Week 5 — Writing week (scoreable structure + speed)

Goal: produce “ETS-ratable” writing fast, without spell-check.

Key rules from ETS materials:

• Write an Email: 7 minutes total to read + write.
• Academic Discussion: 10 minutes total; minimum 100 words; prompt stays visible.
• No spell-check (so your spelling practice matters).

Your templates (memorize these frameworks):

• Email (7 min): Greeting → Purpose → 2–3 bullets of required info → Polite request/question → Closing
• Academic Discussion (10 min): Clear position (1–2 sentences) → 2 reasons → 1 example → connect to/extend a classmate’s point (1 sentence) → wrap-up

Sat deep practice: Writing section timed + self-score using ETS Writing Scoring Guide.

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Week 6 — Speaking week (recording, pacing, intelligibility)

Goal: make speaking “automatic” under time pressure.

Task facts to train precisely:

• Listen and Repeat: 7 sentences, heard once each; repeat exactly.
• Interview: simulated conversation; answer 4 questions; maintain conversational pace and clear pronunciation.

How to practice (ETS-aligned, high ROI):

• Record yourself, replay, score with the ETS scoring guide, fix 1–2 errors, re-record.
• Use shadowing to improve rhythm/intonation for repetition and interview fluency.

Sat (2.5–3h): Midpoint full simulation OR half-simulation

• If life is busy: do Writing+Speaking timed + review
• If possible: do a full test simulation

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Week 7 — Adaptive test skills (Module mindset)

Goal: stop “Module 1 mistakes” from ruining the whole section.

Because Reading/Listening are multistage adaptive and you can’t go back between stages:

• Train “commitment accuracy”: pick your answer, flag only if you have a specific reason, move on.
• After practice Module 1, do a 2-minute reset before Module 2 (breathing + posture + “new start” mindset).

Sat deep practice: Reading Module 1+2 timed + Listening Module 1 timed (or vice versa).

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Week 8 — Weakness bootcamp (your biggest score jump)

Goal: concentrate effort where points are easiest.

Rule: spend 60% of your time on your weakest task types, not just weakest section.

Examples:

• If Writing is weak: do Email twice/week + Academic Discussion twice/week + daily 5-minute grammar reorder.
• If Listening inference is weak: do conversation/announcement sets and write a one-line “speaker goal” after each.

Sat deep practice: targeted drills + one timed mini-section.

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Week 9 — Mixed sets (test realism without burnout)

Goal: improve stamina while keeping a life.

Mon–Thu: keep 45-minute sessions but start mixing:

• Reading day ends with 5 minutes of Listen & Choose a Response
• Listening day ends with 6 Build-a-Sentence items

Sat: “mini full test” (about 60–75 minutes total):

• Reading timed (short) + Listening timed (short) + one writing task

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Week 10 — Full simulation + ruthless review

Goal: convert practice into predictable performance.

Sat: Full test simulation (best)

• Treat it like test day: one sitting, strict timing, no phone.

Same day review (non-negotiable):

• Reading/Listening: write why each wrong choice is wrong (1 sentence each)
• Writing/Speaking: rescore using ETS scoring guides; rewrite/re-record once

Use ETS scoring guides:

• Speaking scoring guide (Listen & Repeat + Interview).
• Writing scoring guide (Email + Academic Discussion).

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Week 11 — Score stabilization (stop fluctuations)

Goal: remove “random bad days.”

What you do this week:

• Repeat your two worst task types 3 times each (short, timed, reviewed)
• Do one more timed half-test on Saturday (your weaker half)

Key mindset: pretest questions can appear in Reading or Listening—practice staying calm when a question feels strange.

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Week 12 — Taper week (peak without exhaustion)

Goal: arrive sharp, not tired.

Mon–Thu (shorter): 30–40 minutes/day

• 1 timed mini-set + review only (no heavy new learning)

Sat (if test is end of week): light confidence session

• 20 minutes: easiest task type
• 20 minutes: error-log review
• Stop early; protect sleep

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6) “If I’m too busy this week” fallback plan (still effective)

If you can only do 3 sessions total in a week:

1. One Reading module timed + review
2. One Listening module timed + review
3. One Writing task + one Speaking recording

That keeps all skills active and preserves momentum (spacing + retrieval).

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7) Quick self-check: are you plateauing (and what to change)?

Plateau patterns and fixes:

• High accuracy, low speed (Reading): train scanning + time caps per question; stop rereading full texts.
• Good Listening notes, wrong answers: your issue is usually inference/purpose—after each audio, write “speaker goal” in 5 words.
• Writing “sounds OK” but scores low: add explicit structure + clearer examples; self-score with the ETS guide every time.
• Speaking feels fluent but unclear: prioritize intelligibility (pronunciation + pacing) and re-record; use ETS speaking descriptors.

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