What are the changes in the TOEFL 2026?

The TOEFL iBT is changing significantly in January 2026, becoming a shorter, adaptive test with new question types, more relevant content, and a new 1-6 CEFR-aligned scoring scale alongside the traditional score for a more intuitive understanding of English proficiency. Key changes include multistage adaptive Reading/Listening, new Speaking tasks (like simulated interviews), updated Writing tasks, and a focus on real-world academic English, streamlining the experience for test-takers.

Will TOEFL 2026 be easier?

Starting January 2026, the TOEFL iBT exam update will feature multistage adaptive testing that adjusts question difficulty to your skill level. This approach provides a more accurate measure of your English skills while offering a personalized, efficient test aligned with real-world communication needs.

What is the new format for TOEFL iBT 2026?

Starting January 21, 2026, receive four section scores, as well as an overall score, on the 1 – 6 scale. The overall score will be the average of all four sections, rounded to the nearest half band (for example, if the average of a student's section scores is 5.125, they will receive an overall score of 5).

What is the TOEFL Reading format for 2026?

FAQs About the 2026 TOEFL® Reading Section

The updated TOEFL® Reading section includes two passages, each with about 10 questions. Together, they make up 20 total questions that test your comprehension and critical reading skills.

What are the upcoming changes to TOEFL?

New Scoring Scale: The 2026 TOEFL will use a 1-to-6 band system, similar to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). (However, your exam will also include a score out of 120 for easy comparison.) Adaptive Sections: the Reading and Listening Sections are now adaptive.

TOEFL Speaking TIPS for a Perfect Score - 2026 Edition

Is 72 a good TOEFL score?

A TOEFL score of 72 is considered advanced (B2 level) and meets the minimum for many universities, but it's often below the requirements for highly selective or top-tier programs which typically look for 90-100+. While 72 shows strong English proficiency, it's crucial to check your target universities' specific score requirements, as some might need higher overall scores or minimums in individual sections like speaking or writing. 

Is new TOEFL harder?

Reading and Listening Sections of TOEFL Are Now Adaptive

This means that the test will adjust in real-time based on the student's performance. These sections are now “multistage adaptive,” which means everyone starts at the same level. Depending on how the student performs, the sections will get easier or harder.

What is the Writing task for TOEFL 2026?

What's New in the 2026 TOEFL Writing Section

• Build a Sentence: Arrange jumbled words to form a clear, correct sentence.
• Write an Email: Draft a short, organized email based on a realistic situation.
• Write for an Academic Discussion: Respond briefly to a classroom-style post with a clear opinion and supporting ideas.

Is it easy to get 79 in TOEFL?

According to official TOEFL percentiles for all test takers, a TOEFL 79 score falls in around the 38th percentile for all students, placing it just below the "good" threshold.

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.
 

How is the TOEFL scored in 2026?

Important Updates to TOEFL Scoring

Effective January 21, 2026, the TOEFL iBT will use a 1-6 band score scale. The overall score is now the average of all four section scores (Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing). The final score used to be the total score of all four sections.

Is TOEFL 110 a C1?

Understanding TOEFL Score C1 and TOEFL Score B2

If your university or employer asks for a C1 level, you need a TOEFL iBT score between 95 and 109. If they ask for B2, aim for a score between 72 and 94.

How is the TOEFL 2025 structured?

It has four sections: reading, listening, speaking, and writing. The TOEFL exam is meant to examine test takers' reading, listening, writing, and speaking skills in a university environment. There will be no modifications to the TOEFL exam format in 2025.

What is the pattern for the TOEFL 2026?

From 21 January 2026, the TOEFL iBT will become a more adaptive and shorter test, with a new scoring scale. The Reading and Listening sections will use a multistage adaptive design, which shortens exam time and personalises difficulty. Scores will shift from the traditional 0 to 120 scale to a 1.0 to 6.0 band scale.

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.

Is TOEFL 100 a C1?

Yes, a TOEFL iBT score of 100 is solidly in the C1 (Advanced) range on the CEFR scale, typically starting at 95, though some universities may look for C1/C2 level (95+) or even higher for top programs. A score of 95-109 generally maps to C1, indicating advanced proficiency for academic study, while scores above 110 start entering the C2 (Mastery) level.
 

What is the hardest English exam?

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.

Is 94 a bad TOEFL score?

Generally, a TOEFL minimum score of 80-90 is required for undergraduate admissions, while top universities often expect 100+. A good score for graduate programs usually falls between 95 and 110, depending on the institution's requirements.

How to crack TOEFL in 15 days?

Analyze your mistakes and note areas needing special attention.

1. Day 2: Reading Section Deep Dive.
2. Day 5: Writing Foundation.
3. Day 8: Speaking Strategies.
4. Day 9: Writing Practice.
5. Day 10: Full Practice Test.

Is TOEFL writing graded by AI?

You'll type your responses on a computer keyboard. Test time: It should take about 29 minutes to complete the Writing section. Scoring: Writing tasks are scored based on the Writing Scoring Guides (Rubrics) (PDF) by a combination of AI scoring and certified human raters.

How to get 30 on TOEFL writing?

Keep that in mind. To score 30 in the writing section you will need: a properly structured independent essay, with about 400 words, an argument that is on-topic, and perfect grammar and language use. Same for the integrated task... but a bit shorter and with the correct details from both sources.

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.

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.

What if you fail TOEFL?

You are allowed to retake the TOEFL iBT test every 3 days. And there's no limit to how many times you can retake the TOEFL. The real question is “When can I retake the TOEFL?” And that really depends on how long you'll need to study for your TOEFL retake.