The TOEFL: Grading Scale and Maximum Score
The TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is one of the most internationally recognized English language exams. It assesses your skills using a unique grading system that covers both written and oral comprehension. The test can be prepared for by taking courses at Wall Street English centers in Switzerland.
TOEFL Grading
The TOEFL iBT (Internet-Based Test) determines your English level from an academic perspective, particularly for entry into English-speaking schools. Recognized worldwide, the exam consists of four separate sections:
- Reading: This section, scored out of 30 points and lasting between 60 and 80 minutes, determines your reading skills and vocabulary knowledge through three to four academic texts.
- Listening: Also scored out of 30 points, this section consists on listening to audio clips of conversations in English and answering related questions. It lasts approximately 60 to 90 minutes.
- Writing: In this 50-minute section, also scored out of 30 points, you will face two tasks: the first requires answering a question about a text and a dialogue on the same topic, and the second requires writing an argumentative essay based on a given question.
- Speaking: This section, not exceeding 20 minutes and scored out of 30 points, requires you to answer 6 questions by recording yourself with a microphone.
Achieving a score of 22 points in each section is considered a good result.
Maximum TOEFL Score
The maximum achievable score on the TOEFL is 120 points, with each section offering a maximum of 30 points. You have to obtain the best possible score in all sections.
Correlation between TOEFL Score and English Level
Once you have completed the exam, each candidate will receive a certificate indicating their official score. There is a correlation between these scores and the levels of English proficiency defined by the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages), ranging from A1 (beginner) to C2 (experienced). The minimum required level (B2) on the TOEFL is achieved with a total of 70 points out of 120. The C1 level corresponds to a score of 100. English-speaking universities generally require an advanced level, with a minimum score of 88 (B2).
What is the difference between TOEFL iBT and TOEFL ITP?
The TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language - Internet-Based Test) and TOEFL ITP (Institutional Testing Program) are two versions of the TOEFL test, differing significantly in evaluation methods.
The TOEFL iBT is conducted exclusively online, in contrast to the paper-based TOEFL ITP. The TOEFL ITP, scored out of 677 points, includes only three sections: listening comprehension, reading comprehension, and written expression (structure and written expression), making it shorter.
Their purposes are also different:
- The TOEFL ITP is primarily used by educational institutions to evaluate students' language skills or to place learners in English courses.
- The TOEFL iBT is recognized by international universities and allows candidates to certify their English proficiency.
In which countries are TOEFL iBT scores accepted?
TOEFL iBT scores are widely accepted in all English-speaking countries and in many countries where English is the language of instruction or communication, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia.
Preparing for the TOEFL in Switzerland
To achieve the maximum score on the exam, adequate preparation is essential. In the Wall Street English centers, you will be able to see a significant improvement in English skills quite quickly. The preparation method is based on the precise course of each exam section. We offer private lessons for rapid progress, conducted by qualified teachers and organized according to the student's availability. Due to its complexity, preparing for the TOEFL on your own can be challenging. Wall Street English provides ideal support with courses perfectly tailored to the exam sections.
To properly understand the particular format of the TOEFL, there is nothing like specific preparation at a specialized center. Present in various Swiss cities, Wall Street English schools are at your disposal to provide courses perfectly tailored to the exam sections.
