For many people, the dream of studying, working, or living in an English-speaking country begins with the same challenge: proving English proficiency. Among the available tests, the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is one of the most recognized and respected worldwide. It’s accepted by thousands of universities and companies and has become a true passport for those pursuing an academic or professional path abroad.

In this article, you’ll learn what the TOEFL is, how its scoring works, how it differs from other exams, and why it’s so highly valued in international admission processes.

What is the TOEFL?

The TOEFL is a standardized exam that evaluates the English proficiency level of people whose native language is not English. Created by ETS (Educational Testing Service), the test measures a candidate’s ability to understand, read, write, and communicate in English in academic and professional settings.

There are several versions of the exam, the most common being the TOEFL iBT (Internet-Based Test), taken on a computer at authorized test centers. There’s also the TOEFL Essentials, a shorter and more dynamic version, ideal for those seeking a general assessment of their language skills, and the older TOEFL PBT (Paper-Based Test), which is now rarely used.

The main advantage of the TOEFL is its global acceptance: over 12,000 institutions in more than 160 countries use it as a benchmark for admission to university programs, exchange opportunities, and job applications.

Why the TOEFL is important

The importance of the TOEFL goes far beyond being just an English test. It is considered a reliable indicator of real communication ability in academic environments. This means universities and employers trust TOEFL scores to determine whether a candidate will be able to follow lectures, write papers, participate in meetings, and interact with classmates and professors.

In addition, the TOEFL is often a mandatory requirement for admission to undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs. It’s also used by immigration authorities and multinational companies that require proof of English fluency.

A good score on the TOEFL can make the difference between being accepted into a top university or having to reapply. It’s therefore a direct investment in your academic and professional future.

Difference between TOEFL and IELTS

When it comes to English proficiency exams, one inevitable question arises: TOEFL or IELTS?

Although both are widely accepted, they have key differences. The TOEFL is more focused on American English, while the IELTS is based on British English. This can influence your choice depending on the country and institution you’re applying to.

Another distinction lies in the format. The TOEFL iBT is taken entirely on a computer, including the Speaking section, which is recorded and later evaluated by certified examiners. The IELTS, on the other hand, usually includes a face-to-face interview with a human examiner.

In terms of structure, the TOEFL tends to be more objective and standardized, which makes it easier to prepare using official practice materials. For this reason, students who plan to study in the United States often choose the TOEFL, as it aligns more closely with the American academic context.

Test structure and scoring criteria

The TOEFL iBT consists of four sections: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing.

• Reading: measures comprehension of academic texts through multiple-choice questions.
• Listening: assesses the ability to understand conversations, lectures, and discussions in English.
• Speaking: requires candidates to respond to questions and discuss topics aloud, with answers recorded directly on the computer.
• Writing: evaluates the ability to develop coherent, well-structured essays based on readings and audio prompts.
  

Each section is scored from 0 to 30, with a total score range of 0 to 120. Generally, a score above 90 is considered good, while elite universities — such as Harvard, Stanford, or MIT — typically require 100 or higher.

The test is valid for two years, and many institutions recommend submitting a recent score. That’s why planning your preparation in advance is essential.

TOEFL and universities

For higher education institutions, the TOEFL is one of the main admission criteria. Each university sets its own minimum score requirements for undergraduate and graduate programs.

For example, engineering and science programs may demand higher scores in Reading and Listening, while communication and education programs value strong performance in Writing and Speaking.

Beyond admission, some universities use the TOEFL to determine the English level of international students and whether they’ll need to take additional language support courses. In other words, a good score doesn’t just open doors — it can save time and money by exempting you from preparatory English classes within the university.

How to prepare for the TOEFL

Preparing for the TOEFL requires more than studying grammar. It’s important to practice real language use, focusing on reading speed, active listening, and clear, structured responses.

Taking official practice tests, watching academic lectures and videos in English, and reading texts from different fields are all effective ways to get familiar with the test format.

However, the best way to prepare is with specialized guidance.
Lumos Language School is the only English school in Utah accredited to officially administer the TOEFL, offering an exclusive preparation program designed for this exam.
The course helps students master each section of the test through experienced instructors, real simulations, and personalized support — everything needed to achieve their target score.

Conclusion: a decisive step toward your international future

Earning a strong TOEFL score is a crucial step for anyone aiming to study or work in a global environment. More than just an English test, it reflects your ability to live and communicate confidently in another language.

If your goal is to attend an American university, pursue an international graduate degree, or build a career abroad, start preparing now.
👉 Visit the Lumos Language School website to learn more about the TOEFL Preparation Course — developed specifically for students who want real results with the support of the only accredited TOEFL center in Utah.