Registering for TOEFL iBT is a straightforward process through ETS's official website. This guide covers every step, from creating your account to understanding your test day experience.
Step 1: Create an ETS Account
Go to ets.org/toefl and create a free account:
- Enter your name exactly as it appears on your passport
- Use a personal email address (not school or work email)
- Keep your username and password — you will need them to view scores and send them to institutions
Step 2: Choose Your Test Format
| Format | Location | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| TOEFL iBT (Test Centre) | Official ETS centre | Standard format; accepted everywhere |
| TOEFL iBT Home Edition | Your home | Same test; not accepted for UK visa; requires webcam + microphone |
Step 3: Choose Test Date and Location
On the ETS website:
- Select "Register for TOEFL iBT"
- Enter your country and state/city
- Browse available test dates at test centres or home edition
- Available dates are shown in a calendar format
How far ahead to book:
- Major cities: 2–4 weeks minimum
- Smaller cities / countries: 3–6 weeks
- Peak season (May–July, October–December): 6–8 weeks
Step 4: Complete Registration and Pay
Registration fee varies by country:
| Country | Approximate Fee |
|---|---|
| India | $185 – $205 USD |
| Pakistan | $185 – $205 USD |
| Nigeria | $235 USD |
| UK | £175 – £195 |
| USA | $235 USD |
| Canada | $235 – $250 CAD |
| Australia | AUD 335 – AUD 370 |
| UAE | $235 USD |
| Singapore | SGD 320 – SGD 350 |
Fees are set by ETS and may vary. Confirm on the ETS website.
Step 5: ID Requirements
TOEFL requires a valid passport as primary ID:
- Your passport must be valid on the test date
- The name on your registration must exactly match your passport
- National ID cards are generally not accepted at most international test centres
Test Day Structure
| Section | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Reading | 54–72 minutes | 3–4 passages; 10 questions each |
| Listening | 41–57 minutes | 3–4 lectures; 2–3 conversations |
| Break | 10 minutes | Mandatory |
| Speaking | 17 minutes | 4 tasks |
| Writing | 50 minutes | 2 tasks (20 min + 30 min) |
| Total | ~3 hours |
What to bring: Valid passport; no phones or personal items permitted in the test room.
After the Test — Scores
| Score Delivery | Timing |
|---|---|
| Online score report | ~4–8 business days |
| Institutional Score Reports (ISRs) | Sent to institutions 11 business days after test |
| Score validity | 2 years from test date |
Sending Scores to Universities
Free score sends: You designate up to 4 institutions before the test at no extra cost. They receive scores 11 business days after your test.
Additional score sends: $20 USD per institution after the test.
To send scores:
- Log into your ETS account
- Go to "Order Score Reports"
- Search for institutions by name or DI Code
- Pay and confirm
Rescheduling and Cancelling
| Action | Fee | Timing |
|---|---|---|
| Reschedule (more than 4 days before) | $60 USD | Before 12 midnight ET |
| Cancel (more than 4 days before) | Partial refund (~$40 USD) | |
| Cancel (within 4 days) | No refund |
TOEFL MyBest Scores — Important Note
ETS offers MyBest Scores — a superscore combining your best section scores from multiple test dates. However:
- Most universities do not accept MyBest — they require a single-sitting score
- Always check each institution's policy before relying on MyBest
Prepare before you book — Gabble's AI-powered TOEFL Speaking and Writing practice gives you estimated section scores before you register, so you book only when you're ready.