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TOEFL iBT Guide

Test of English as a Foreign Language (internet-based)

TOEFL iBT is an internet-based English test accepted by most Australian universities for admissions and by the Department of Home Affairs for some visa subclasses. It is particularly common for applicants from the USA.

Score requirements

Level	Required score	What it unlocks
Competent English	L12 / R13 / W21 / S18	Minimum for eligible skilled migration visas
Proficient English	L24 / R24 / W27 / S23	+10 points in skilled visa points test
Superior English	L28 / R29 / W30 / S26	+20 points in skilled visa points test
Student Visa / Universities	Varies — typically 60–80 overall	Check with your specific institution

Test format

**Reading** (54–72 minutes): 3–4 passages, each around 700 words. Questions test comprehension, inference, vocabulary, and rhetorical purpose. **Listening** (41–57 minutes): 3–4 lectures and 2–3 conversations. Questions test comprehension, main purpose, detail, and pragmatic understanding. **Speaking** (17 minutes): 4 tasks — 1 independent (express an opinion) and 3 integrated (read/listen, then speak). **Writing** (50 minutes): 1 integrated task (read + listen + write summary) and 1 independent essay.

Scoring

TOEFL iBT scores range from 0–120 overall, with each section scored 0–30. **For Australian skilled visas (Home Affairs equivalent thresholds):** - Competent English: L 12 / R 13 / W 21 / S 18 - Proficient English: L 24 / R 24 / W 27 / S 23 - Superior English: L 28 / R 29 / W 30 / S 26 Note: TOEFL is not accepted for all Australian visa subclasses. Always verify current Home Affairs requirements before booking.

Preparation tips

TOEFL is accepted by virtually all Australian universities for admissions, but check current Home Affairs policy for visa applications.

The integrated writing and speaking tasks require you to process both reading and listening before responding — practise this multi-step skill specifically.

Unlike IELTS, TOEFL allows you to take notes during the Listening section. Develop efficient note-taking strategies.

Results are typically available online within 4–8 days of testing.

TOEFL scores are valid for 2 years.

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