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TOEFL Exam Syllabus: Comprehensive Guide with Section-Wise Details

Home / Exams Test / TOEFL / TOEFL Exam Syllabus

TOEFL Exam Syllabus

The TOEFL exam is designed to measure the English language proficiency of non-native speakers. It is crucial for students aiming to study or work in English-speaking countries, as it assesses key skills such as Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing. Understanding the detailed syllabus is essential for effective preparation and achieving a high score. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the TOEFL exam syllabus, including section-wise details, exam types, preparation tips, and more.

MSM Unify, a leading overseas education consultant, can assist you in preparing for the TOEFL exam and choosing the best study-abroad programs based on your scores and goals. With a network of over 1,500 campuses and 50,000+ programs in 21 destinations, MSM Unify is your trusted partner in making your study-abroad dreams a reality.

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Section-wise syllabus

TOEFL Reading section

The Reading section tests the ability to understand and analyze academic texts. Candidates must read passages and answer questions that evaluate comprehension, inference, and vocabulary skills.

Description	The Reading section includes 2 passages, each approximately 700 words long, with 10 questions per passage. It assesses your ability to understand and interpret academic texts.
Number of passages	2 passages (approximately 700 words each)
Total questions	20 questions (10 per passage)
Time limit	35 minutes
Question types	Multiple choice, inference, vocabulary, and summarization
Scoring	Based on the number of correct responses, focusing on comprehension and analysis.

TOEFL Listening section

This section evaluates the ability to understand spoken English in academic contexts. It includes lectures and conversations, testing comprehension, detail retention, and speaker intent.

Description	The Listening section includes 3 lectures and 2 conversations. Each lecture lasts 3-5 minutes, with 6 questions per lecture. Each conversation is approximately 3 minutes long, with 5 questions each.
Number of lectures	3 lectures (6 questions each)
Number of conversations	2 conversations (5 questions each)
Total questions	28 questions
Time limit	36 minutes
Question types	Multiple choice, detail matching, inference, and speaker’s attitude
Scoring	Based on the ability to understand and connect information from spoken academic material.

TOEFL Speaking section

The Speaking section assesses the ability to speak clearly and coherently on given topics. It includes independent and integrated tasks, where candidates express opinions and summarize information from reading and listening materials.

Description	The Speaking section consists of 4 tasks. One independent task requires speaking on a familiar topic, while three integrated tasks involve speaking based on reading and listening passages.
Number of tasks	4 tasks (1 independent, 3 integrated)
Time limit	16 minutes
Question types	Independent task (opinion), integrated tasks (read/listen/speak)
Scoring	Based on fluency, coherence, delivery, and language use.

TOEFL Writing section

The Writing section evaluates the ability to produce organized and well-developed written responses. It includes two tasks: one integrated task based on reading and listening, and an independent essay task.

Description	The Writing section includes two tasks. The first is an integrated task requiring candidates to read a passage, listen to a related lecture, and write a summary. The second is an independent essay task.
Number of tasks	2 tasks (1 integrated, 1 independent)
Time limit	50 minutes (20 minutes for integrated, 30 minutes for independent)
Question types	Integrated task (read/listen/write), independent essay (expressing an opinion)
Scoring	Based on clarity, organization, and development of ideas with appropriate language use.

Exam types

The TOEFL exam is available in different formats to accommodate various preferences and testing conditions:

TOEFL iBT (Internet-based test): It is conducted online at designated test centers or at home (TOEFL iBT Home Edition). It includes all four sections: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing.
TOEFL PBT (Paper-based test): It is available in areas without internet access. It includes Reading, Listening, and Writing sections but excludes Speaking.

Feature	TOEFL iBT	TOEFL PBT
Mode	Online	Paper
Sections	Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing	Reading, Listening, Writing
Duration	Approx. 2 hours	Approx. 2.5 hours
Availability	Widely available	Limited regions

Highlights of the exam pattern

The TOEFL iBT test duration has been reduced to approximately 2 hours from the previous 3 hours.

The traditional Independent Writing task has been replaced by the “Writing for an Academic Discussion” task.

The TOEFL exam has no penalty for incorrect answers, encouraging candidates to attempt all questions.

The ETS platform now offers a more intuitive interface for registration, rescheduling, and tracking score status.

Preparation tips

To successfully book and attend the TOEFL exam, candidates need to have the following documents:

Create a study schedule
Allocate time for each section and adhere to a consistent study routine.
Practice with official materials
Use ETS resources for authentic practice tests and sample questions.
Enhance vocabulary
Focus on academic vocabulary frequently found in university texts.
Take mock tests
Simulate exam conditions to build confidence and reduce anxiety.
Seek professional guidance
MSM Unify provides personalized TOEFL preparation support to help you achieve your desired scores.

Conclusion

Understanding the TOEFL syllabus and exam pattern is crucial for effective preparation and achieving high scores. MSM Unify provides comprehensive support and resources to help you excel in your TOEFL journey and reach your study-abroad goals.

With access to over 1,500 campuses and 50,000+ programs across 21 destinations, MSM Unify is your trusted partner in making your educational dreams a reality. Contact MSM Unify today for personalized guidance and support!

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MSM Unify can help you achieve your desired scores through access to preparation resources, mock tests, and expert guidance.

So, connect with these experts to embark on your comprehensive test preparation journey soon!

MSM Unify can help you achieve your desired scores through access to preparation resources, mock tests, and expert guidance.

So, connect with these experts to embark on your comprehensive test preparation journey soon!

FAQs

Got questions?

Find answers here

Q. What is the TOEFL syllabus?

The TOEFL syllabus includes four sections: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing. It assesses academic English skills required for university-level education.

Q. Can I take notes during the Listening section?

Yes, you can take notes during the Listening section to help answer questions accurately.

Q. How is the TOEFL scored?

The TOEFL is scored on a scale of 0-120, with each section contributing 30 points to the total score.

Q. Is TOEFL harder than IELTS?

Difficulty varies based on individual strengths. TOEFL has more integrated tasks, while IELTS offers more straightforward question types.

Q. Can I reschedule my TOEFL test?

Yes, you can reschedule your test up to four days before the scheduled date, but a rescheduling fee applies.

Q. How can I prepare for the Speaking section?

Practice speaking on a variety of topics, record your responses, and get feedback from peers or tutors.

Q. Is there any negative marking in TOEFL?

No, there is no negative marking in the TOEFL exam.

Q. Can I use a dictionary during the test?

No, you cannot use any external aids, including dictionaries, during the test.

Q. What is the registration fee for TOEFL in India?

The registration fee for TOEFL in India is approximately ₹16,900.

Q. How can MSM Unify help with TOEFL preparation?

MSM Unify offers expert guidance, study materials, and personalized support to help you excel in the TOEFL exam and choose the right study-abroad program based on your goals.

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TOEFL Exam Syllabus: Comprehensive Guide with Section-Wise Details

TOEFL Exam Syllabus

Section-wise syllabus

TOEFL Reading section

TOEFL Listening section

TOEFL Speaking section

TOEFL Writing section

Exam types

Highlights of the exam pattern

Preparation tips

Create a study schedule

Practice with official materials

Enhance vocabulary

Take mock tests

Seek professional guidance

Conclusion

TOEFL all pages...

Interested in studying abroad?

MSM Unify can help you achieve your desired scores through access to preparation resources, mock tests, and expert guidance.

FAQs

Got questions?

Find answers here

Q. What is the TOEFL syllabus?

Q. Can I take notes during the Listening section?

Q. How is the TOEFL scored?

Q. Is TOEFL harder than IELTS?

Q. Can I reschedule my TOEFL test?

Q. How can I prepare for the Speaking section?

Q. Is there any negative marking in TOEFL?

Q. Can I use a dictionary during the test?

Q. What is the registration fee for TOEFL in India?

Q. How can MSM Unify help with TOEFL preparation?

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