TOEFL is an American test that is widely available throughout the world. The TOEFL test can be taken either in traditional paper form (TOEFL PB), as a computer-based test (TOEFL CB), or as an internet-based test (TOEFL iBT). Applicants are now probably more likely to provide results from the computer-based test.

It is important to note that the paper-based test, the computer test and the internet-based test present scores on different scales. In the paper-based and computer-based versions of the test, assessments of students' speaking and writing are now available through TOEFL: Test of Spoken English (TSE) and Test of Written English (TWE). The TSE is an optional sub-test for candidates. The TWE is optional on the paper-based TOEFL test but an integral part of the Computer-Based TOEFL.

The Test of Written English (TWE) is a 30-minute essay test which is marked on a scale of 1 – 6. It is recommended that you specify a certain grade in Writing (levels 4 and 5 are advisable minimum requirements). We would recommend level 5 Writing for subjects involving essay/examination writing. For an explanation of the writing scoring system, see TOEFL Writing Scoring Guide. The Test of Spoken English (TSE) is a 20 minute taped speech sample. It is marked on a scale of 20-60 and we recommend a minimum score of 50.

The TOEFL Internet-based test tests the four language skills: speaking, listening, reading and writing. It focuses on the English used in academic settings and aims to give better information about a candidate's ability to study in an English-speaking environment. This is a new test and is not yet available in every country.

A comparison of TOEFL scores in the three different formats is available here.

Further information on TOEFL is available on their website.