TOEFL 2025 Decoded: A Detailed Look at the New Format and Global Acceptance

For Indian students aspiring to study abroad, demonstrating English proficiency is a key part of the admissions process. Among the most widely recognized English language tests globally, the TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language - Internet-Based Test) stands out for its academic focus and wide acceptance.As we enter 2025, there have been a number of key changes and updates to the TOEFL test format, structure, and fee schedule, which candidates must keep in mind.
In 2023, ETS (the organization that administers TOEFL) rolled out major changes to the test structure and experience to make the exam shorter and more efficient. These changes have carried forward into 2025, giving test-takers a more streamlined and less time-consuming testing experience.
Test Duration: The TOEFL iBT is now approximately less than 2 hours—a significant reduction from its earlier 3-hour format.
Writing Section: A new task, called the "Writing for an Academic Discussion", has replaced the previous independent writing task. This task assesses a student’s ability to participate in academic discussions, which aligns better with real classroom scenarios.
Instant Score Preview: After completing the test, candidates can immediately view their unofficial Reading and Listening scores at the test center.
These changes reflect ETS’s goal of improving user experience without compromising the integrity or rigor of the test.
TOEFL iBT is accepted by over 12,500 universities and institutions in more than 160 countries, including major destinations like the United States, Canada, the UK, Australia, and New Zealand.
As of 2025:
100% of universities in the U.S. continue to accept TOEFL.
The UK recognizes TOEFL iBT for all visa and academic purposes.
Canadian institutions favor TOEFL, especially for SDS (Student Direct Stream) applications.
It is also widely accepted in Europe and Asia, making it a flexible option for students with multiple study destinations in mind.
There are currently two primary formats for taking the TOEFL test:
Location: At official test centers or from home (TOEFL iBT Home Edition)
Frequency: Conducted over 170+ times annually.
Duration: Just under 2 hours.
Sections: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing.
Score Range: 0–120 (30 points per section).
Available in select countries including India.
Administered in two sessions: Reading, Listening, and Writing in-person at test centers; Speaking section taken from home within 3 days.
Note: TOEFL Essentials (a shorter, general English test) is still available but is accepted by fewer institutions (around 500 worldwide) and is not recommended for top-tier academic admissions.

These updates make TOEFL one of the most time-efficient language proficiency exams while retaining strong academic rigor.
The cost structure for TOEFL has also been revised. As of 2025, the following applies to Indian test takers:

Students can pay using credit/debit cards, PayPal, and UPI-based payments.
ETS offers TOEFL test dates multiple times every month, across a wide network of test centers in cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Chennai.
Additionally, the TOEFL iBT Home Edition is available 5 days a week (excluding Thursday and Friday), offering the same content and scoring as the test center version.
Score Validity: 2 years from the test date.
Score Reports: You can send your score reports to up to 4 universities free of charge if you select them before the test.
Delivery Time: Scores are typically available within 4 to 8 calendar days after the test date.
No Negative Marking: You earn points only for correct responses, with no penalty for wrong answers.
TOEFL evaluates proficiency across core language skills in academic contexts.
Reading: Analyze 2 passages (10 questions each), requiring inference and vocabulary understanding.
Listening: 3 lectures and 2 conversations. Tests note-taking and comprehension.
Speaking: Includes a personal opinion task and integrated responses based on reading and listening.
Writing: One task integrates reading and listening; the second is a contribution to an academic online discussion forum.
Q: Is TOEFL easier than IELTS or PTE?
A: TOEFL focuses more on academic English and requires solid reading/listening comprehension. It’s preferred by many U.S. institutions but difficulty is subjective.
Q: Can I retake TOEFL?
A: Yes. You can retake it as soon as the next available date.
Q: Is TOEFL accepted for Canada’s SDS program?
A: Yes. TOEFL iBT scores are now accepted for SDS (Student Direct Stream), offering faster visa processing for Indian students.
Q: How early should I register?
A: Register at least 2-3 months in advance to secure your preferred date and location.
The TOEFL test, especially the iBT version, continues to be one of the most trusted and academically rigorous English language assessments in 2025. Whether you plan to study in the U.S., Canada, or other top destinations, TOEFL provides flexibility (in test mode), fairness (no negative marking), and a strong reflection of the English used in real classrooms.
For Indian students who aim for competitive international programs, preparing well for TOEFL can be the first confident step toward their global education journey.