The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is a standardized test specific for testing the English skills of a non-native speaker. Specifically, TOEFL measures an individual’s reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills, things that are important for students to be successful in their chosen field, and in carrying out the needed academic activities in their institution of choice.Â
Generally, TOEFL is used by students to get into an English-speaking educational institution abroad. However, aside from getting into their university of choice, other individuals use their TOEFL scores to increase their chances of getting a scholarship and when applying for a student visa or a work visa.
TOEFL iBT, which is internet-based, can be taken either in test centers or at home. Recently, as an adjustment to the COVID-19 pandemic, test centers for TOEFL exams have implemented health protocols to protect both its students and staff.Â
Which Countries Accept Your TOEFL Scores
According to ETS, TOEFL’s governing body, TOEFL is accepted by over 11,000 educational institutions found in more than 150 countries worldwide.Â
Moreover, aside from English-speaking countries like the US, Canada, Australia, and the UK, it is also being accepted in many of Asia’s non-English speaking countries but has programs in English, such as Japan, Malaysia, China, and Korea. Learn more about the countries that accept TOEFL.Â
AustraliaÂ
In Australia, TOEFL is accepted by 100% of its universities, and the government for those wanting to migrate, app, or work in the country.Â
Aside from a student visa, TOEFL test-takers can also apply for a temporary or permanent visa in Australia, for skilled migration, business and work holidays, and post-study work.Â
New Zealand
New Zealand’s higher educational institutions (HEIs) and migration authorities also accept TOEFL scores. For those who want to study in the country, the score requirement may differ depending on the institution.Â
However, for those wanting to migrate to New Zealand, if they want to get a Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa, they need to have a total score of 79 on their TOEFL test. Also, the test should have been taken within two years before they apply for the visa.Â
Canada
According to ETS, aside from being accepted in all Canadian universities, TOEFL is also the preferred English assessment test for the majority of Canada’s graduate programs. In fact, according to a survey among a hundred and seven admission officers in Canada’s universities, there are more TOEFL scores being sent to Canada’s universities than other English assessment tests combined.Â
UK and Europe
In the UK, TOEFL is accepted by all of its universities, including the Russell Group universities.Â
TOEFL is also accepted in the European Union and the wider Schengen area universities, and according to ETS, it is the preferred English assessment test in France and Germany.Â
United StatesÂ
TOEFL in the US is accepted everywhere. According to ETS, based on a survey of 94 university admissions officers in the US, it is also the preferred choice for 9 out of 10 universities.
The countries discussed above are just some of the prominent countries that will accept your TOEFL score. Due to its popularity, you are sure to discover more countries that use it.Â
Read our other articles here at MSM Unify to learn more about the different language exams students can take, and tips on facing them. To start, check out our article on Managing Anxiety During Exams: Tips for Students