Is the TOEFL hard for English speakers?

Yes, the TOEFL can be surprisingly challenging even for native English speakers because it tests specific academic English skills, timing, and standardized test strategies, not just general fluency, with sections like timed speaking and note-taking being particular hurdles. While native speakers often excel in Reading and Listening, the rigorous structure, formal vocabulary, and timed writing/speaking tasks require targeted practice to master the test format, making preparation essential for high scores.

How hard is it to pass TOEFL?

Yes, the TOEFL is generally considered a challenging test, even for advanced English speakers, because it assesses specific academic English skills under timed conditions, focusing on structure, vocabulary, and integrated skills (like listening and writing) rather than general fluency, though its difficulty depends heavily on your current proficiency and familiarity with the test format. While the reading and listening can be manageable if you consume English media, the integrated speaking and writing tasks, plus the specific academic vocabulary, often trip people up, making preparation crucial. 

How hard is TOEFL for non-native speakers?

The TOEFL exam is considered one of the most difficult exams, especially for those who are not comfortable with academic English. Conducted by ETS, it is a crucial requirement for international students seeking admission to universities in English-speaking countries like the USA, UK, Canada, and Australia.

Is TOEFL tougher than IELTS?

If you are comfortable with typing and multiple-choice formats, TOEFL may be easier, whereas if you prefer varied question types and human interaction, IELTS may be the better choice. The difficulty level of TOEFL vs. IELTS largely depends on your strengths and test-taking preferences.

Is TOEFL harder than SAT?

For international students in particular, the good news is that the English on the TOEFL is not quite as hard as the English students will find on the SAT or ACT, and improving on the TOEFL will also help students to improve on the harder exams such as the SAT and ACT.

How I got 119/120 on the 2025 TOEFL test

Is it hard to get 90 in TOEFL?

On average, it may take several weeks to a few months of consistent preparation to improve your skills and achieve a score of 90 or above. Creating a study plan and sticking to it can help you effectively manage your preparation time.

Which English test is the hardest?

Cambridge Exams

The Cambridge exam suite is the most difficult English test to understand because it is actually a set of several tests for different skill levels and student profiles.

Do universities prefer TOEFL or IELTS?

While both exams are globally recognized, TOEFL is typically preferred by institutions in the United States, while IELTS is more commonly favored in other countries. TOEFL is more widely accepted and is often preferred by U.S. institutions.

How to pass TOEFL easily?

Acing the TOEFL iBT ® Test: 8 Essential Tips for Success

1. TIP#1: Familiarize yourself with the TOEFL iBT ® test format. ...
2. Tip #3: Practice with the Official TOEFL iBT Free practice test. ...
3. Tip#5: Hone Your Listening Skills. ...
4. Tip#6: Enhance Speaking Fluency. ...
5. Tip#7: Improve Writing Skills. ...
6. Tip#8: Time Management.

Which one is easy, TOEFL or Duolingo?

Unfortunately, there is not a definitive answer. Test takers say that TOEFL uses a lot more high-level, academic vocabulary which makes it more difficult. What is clear is that some people do better on the DET while other people do better on TOEFL. Duolingo collected TOEFL scores from people who also took the DET.

What's the passing score for TOEFL?

The minimum result for TOEFL iBT normally varies from 61 points (for example, Bowling Green State University) to 109 (Harvard). Analysis of TOEFL passing scores for the different universities has showed that the average score for the TOEFL iBT is about 74.2 for students and 82.6 for graduate students.

What is the hardest part of the TOEFL test?

The hardest part of the TOEFL for many test takers is typically the Speaking section. For students in high school, reading is the hardest section, with a mean score of 18.0.

Is 1 month enough for TOEFL?

Preparing for the TOEFL exam can be challenging, but with the right study plan, you can achieve a high score in just 30 days with self-study. In this guide, we provide a detailed TOEFL one-month study plan designed to help you improve your English skills quickly and efficiently.

What happens if I fail TOEFL?

You can repeat the IBT TOEFL exam every 12 days as many times as you want. In this sense, there are no limits. And you can take the exam again, naturally, depending on the time you need to prepare for the exam again.

Which is the 3 toughest exam in the world?

The three toughest exams globally often cited for their extreme difficulty, low pass rates, and high stakes are China's Gaokao (National College Entrance Exam) for its sheer scale and competitiveness, India's UPSC Civil Services Exam for its life-altering potential and minuscule selection, and India's IIT-JEE Advanced (Joint Entrance Exam) for its rigorous engineering entrance criteria, alongside prestigious UK fellowships like the All Souls Prize Exam, with difficulty varying by individual and goals. 

Is TOEFL speaking face-to-face?

The TOEFL Speaking test evaluates a candidate's ability to communicate effectively in academic and campus-based situations. It is part of the TOEFL iBT exam and is conducted entirely on a computer. Unlike face-to-face interviews, responses are recorded and later evaluated by certified examiners.

Which is easier, IELTS or TOEFL?

Neither TOEFL nor IELTS is universally "easier"; it depends on your strengths, as TOEFL suits those comfortable with American English and computer-based tests with multiple-choice questions, while IELTS favors those who prefer varied question types and a direct, face-to-face speaking interview. TOEFL is highly academic and computer-based, with a potentially challenging recorded speaking section, whereas IELTS offers paper/computer options, a broader range of accents in listening, and a real conversation for speaking, making it feel more natural to some. 

How long do TOEFL results take?

When you'll get your scores. Your scores will be available in your ETS account 4–8 days after your test date. The exact date you can expect to receive your official scores will be displayed at the end of your TOEFL iBT test.

Can I retake the TOEFL test?

Taking the TOEFL iBT test is a great way to stand out to admissions officers as an international student. If, however, you didn't reach your score objective the first time around, don't panic – you can retake the TOEFL iBT as often as you'd like.

How rare is 120 in TOEFL?

A score of 120 on the TOEFL is the maximum possible score, meaning it's the rarest and best score, placing you in the 100th percentile (perfect) for all test-takers, indicating exceptional English proficiency, often required for top-tier universities or competitive programs. While not incredibly common, it's a realistic goal for highly proficient non-native speakers, with many scoring in the 100-115 range for excellent results, but 120 signifies absolute mastery.
 

What are common TOEFL mistakes?

“Since then” vs “after that” Subject-Verb agreement with gerunds. Using the definite article before “society” Semicolon Use. “Boring” vs “Bored”

Is B2 considered fluent?

Yes, B2 (Vantage/Upper Intermediate) is widely considered the first level of fluency, allowing for spontaneous, comfortable, and effective communication on a wide range of topics with native speakers without strain, though higher levels like C1/C2 offer even greater nuance and mastery. A B2 speaker can handle complex discussions, express opinions, and manage daily life and work situations, marking them as an independent user of the language, says The Linguist blog.
 

What is A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, C2?

A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, C2 are the six levels of language proficiency defined by the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), indicating a learner's ability from beginner (A1) to mastery (C2) in reading, writing, listening, and speaking, with A=Basic, B=Independent, and C=Proficient users.