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New TOEFL format: the sections and question types of the current TOEFL iBT

New TOEFL Format Changes 2026

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The New TOEFL Format Changes 2026 are the biggest update to the TOEFL iBT® test in years. ETS designed them to modernize the test experience, improve fairness, and better match the English that today's students actually use. The new TOEFL format brings all-new reading, listening, writing, and speaking tasks. Only one task stays from the previous test: the Writing for an Academic Discussion task. The Reading and Listening sections now use a multistage adaptive format, which adjusts question difficulty to your performance, so every test taker gets a fair and accurate measure of their English.

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Table Of Contents

  1. New TOEFL Format Changes 2026 at a Glance
  2. TOEFL Reading Changes in 2026
  3. TOEFL Listening Changes in 2026
  4. TOEFL Speaking Changes in 2026
  5. TOEFL Writing Changes in 2026
  6. What Is the New TOEFL Multistage Adaptive Testing?
  7. New Simplified TOEFL Scores: 1-6 Band Scale
  8. ETS to Enhance Fairness and Accessibility
  9. How to Prepare for the New TOEFL Format

New TOEFL Format Changes 2026 at a Glance

The 2026 TOEFL iBT takes about 90 minutes of actual testing time. With check-in, ID checks, and instructions, plan for a total appointment of about 2 hours at the test center. The sections always come in the same order: Reading, Listening, Writing, and Speaking.

Section

New TOEFL Format 2026

Reading

50 questions, about 30 minutes

  • Complete the Words
  • Read in Daily Life
  • Read an Academic Passage (a much shorter passage with fewer questions than before)

New TOEFL Reading Test Guide

Listening

47 questions, about 29 minutes

  • Listen and Choose a Response
  • Listen to a Conversation
  • Listen to an Announcement
  • Listen to an Academic Talk

New TOEFL Listening Test Guide

Writing

12 questions, about 23 minutes

  • Build a Sentence
  • Write an Email
  • Write for an Academic Discussion (kept from the previous test)

New TOEFL Writing Test Guide

Speaking

11 questions, about 8 minutes

  • Listen and Repeat
  • Take an Interview

New TOEFL Speaking Test Guide

120 questions, about 90 minutes of testing time

No Scheduled Breaks Between Sections

You complete all four sections consecutively, with no scheduled breaks between them. The 10-minute break of the older test is gone. Once Reading ends, Listening starts, and Writing and Speaking follow straight after.

For test day, that means two things. First, build the focus to work for 90 minutes without a pause, because Speaking comes last, when you are most tired. Second, practice the sections in the real order, so the switch from one section to the next feels normal and does not cost you time.

TOEFL Reading Changes in 2026

The new Reading section replaces the two long passages of the old test with many short texts. You answer 50 questions in about 30 minutes, with one timer for the whole section, so you decide how to spend your time. The section is adaptive in two stages: how well you do in stage 1 sets the difficulty of stage 2. The texts range from everyday English to the level of a first-year university course, and all answers come from the text itself.

Complete the Words

You see a short academic paragraph of about 80 words in which 10 words are cut in half. You type the missing letters of each word. This task checks spelling, grammar, and how well you follow the meaning of a sentence. Tip: read the whole sentence before you fill a gap, because the word form (plural, past tense, adjective) often depends on the words around it.

TOEFL reading test Complete the Words screen

Complete the Words TOEFL Reading Sample Question
Arthropods succeed on land partly because exoskeletons protect the body and reduce water loss. Biolo compare molting, joi limbs, and sen organs to under how arthropods oc so many habi. Insects, spi, and crustaceans all bel to this very br animal gr. Small size and rapid reproduction often help them respond quickly to change. New measurements and historical evidence often reveal patterns that earlier research could not fully explain. These comparisons help scholars test explanations and connect local evidence to broader systems. Arthropods demonstrate how one body plan can diversify across many environments. Additional evidence from surveys, experiments, and archives can clarify how the process changes over time.

  • spellcheck Answers
    1. gists (Biologists)
    2. nted (jointed)
    3. sory (sensory)
    4. stand (understand)
    5. cupy (occupy)
    6. tats (habitats)
    7. ders (spiders)
    8. ong (belong)
    9. oad (broad)
    10. oup (group)

Complete the Words

Learn how to answer this question in a step-by-step interactive exercise

Read in Daily Life

You read a short, practical text such as a notice, an email, a text message, or a web post, between 50 and 170 words long. Each text usually has 2 multiple-choice questions about details, purpose, or what the writer suggests. Tip: look at who wrote the text and why, because many questions ask what the reader should do next.

TOEFL reading test Read in Daily Life screen

Read in Daily Life TOEFL Reading Sample Question

Upcoming Billing Cycle and Payment Reminders

Important Dates for July 2025 Billing Cycle

The monthly billing cycle for all SecureBank credit accounts will close on July 24, 2025, with automatic payments processed on July 25, 2025 for enrolled customers. To avoid payment failure or late fees, make sure sufficient funds are available in your linked account by 5:00 P.M. on July 24. Customers not enrolled in automatic payments are encouraged to submit their payment manually through our online banking platform, mobile app, or at any branch before the due date.

To review your billing statement, sign in at www.securebank.com. For questions or updates to your payment settings, contact us at billing@securebank.com or call (800) 555-0123.

Thank you for choosing SecureBank.

1. What is the main purpose of this notice?
  1. To announce a new account policy
  2. To remind all customers of the upcoming billing cycle
  3. To confirm individual payments
  4. To promote mobile banking features
2. What action is recommended for customers with automatic payments?
  1. Update their credit limit
  2. Disable payment alerts
  3. Ensure funds are available by July 24
  4. Close their accounts

  • spellcheck Answers

    1. Answer: B

    (B) The correct answer is to remind all customers of the upcoming billing cycle. In paragraph 1 and the heading, "Upcoming Billing Cycle and Payment Reminders," the notice explains that "The monthly billing cycle for all SecureBank credit accounts will close on July 24, 2025, with automatic payments processed on July 25, 2025" and provides instructions about avoiding late fees. These details confirm that the notice’s main purpose is to alert every customer about the upcoming billing cycle and associated payment dates.

    (A) "To announce a new account policy" is incorrect since no new or revised policies are introduced; the text only reiterates existing billing dates and procedures.

    (C) "To confirm individual payments" is incorrect because the notice does not acknowledge receipt of any specific payment; instead, it speaks prospectively about what customers should do before the billing cycle ends.

    (D) "To promote mobile banking features" is incorrect; although the notice mentions the mobile app as one payment option, the document’s focus is not marketing the app but reminding customers of billing deadlines.

    2. Answer: C

    (C) The correct answer is ensure funds are available by July 24. In paragraph 1, the notice states, "To avoid payment failure or late fees, make sure sufficient funds are available in your linked account by 5:00 P.M. on July 24." This directive is specifically aimed at customers whose automatic payments will be processed the next day, indicating the recommended action.

    (A) "Update their credit limit" is incorrect because the notice never advises changing credit limits; it only addresses payment timing and fund availability.

    (B) "Disable payment alerts" is incorrect as the notice does not mention disabling alerts; instead, it emphasizes keeping automatic payments active and funded.

    (D) "Close their accounts" is incorrect since the text nowhere suggests that customers should close their accounts; it focuses on maintaining payments.

Gist Purpose

Learn how to answer question 1 in a step-by-step interactive exercise

Read an Academic Passage

This is the one familiar task, but much shorter than before. The passage is 150 to 400 words on an academic topic, followed by about 5 questions on vocabulary, details, inference, and the passage's purpose. Tip: skim the passage once for its main idea, then go back to the exact sentence each question points to.

TOEFL reading test Read an Academic Passage screen

Read an Academic Passage TOEFL Reading Sample Question

The development of windmills marked an important step in the history of mechanical power. Historical evidence suggests that early wind-driven machines were used for grinding grain, pumping water, and supporting agricultural communities. These devices were especially valuable in regions where flowing water was limited.

Some of the earliest windmills were simple in design. [A] Builders often used wooden frames and cloth sails to catch moving air. [B] However, not all early windmills remained rudimentary. [C] Over time, engineers developed improved gears and stronger towers that allowed mills to work more reliably. [D] These advances increased the range of tasks windmills could perform.

The shift from simple wind-powered structures to more refined machines suggests advances in design, planning, and local engineering knowledge. Better windmills allowed communities to process food more efficiently and manage water with less labor. Recent discoveries have also shown that windmill technology may have spread between regions in more complex ways than researchers once believed.

1. The word “rudimentary” in the passage is closest in meaning to
  1. basic
  2. decorative
  3. fragile
  4. imported
2. According to the passage, all of the following are true about early windmills EXCEPT:
  1. They could help grind grain.
  2. Some used cloth sails.
  3. They were always highly complex from the beginning.
  4. They were valuable where flowing water was limited.
3. What is suggested about later improvements in windmill design?
  1. They made windmills more reliable and useful for more tasks.
  2. They removed the need for sails entirely.
  3. They prevented windmills from spreading between regions.
  4. They made wind power less efficient than before.
4. What have recent discoveries uncovered about windmill technology?
  1. It spread between regions in more complex ways than once believed.
  2. It was used only for decorative buildings.
  3. It depended entirely on metal sails.
  4. It appeared only after steam engines were invented.
5.

There are four locations [▪] in the passage that indicate where the following sentence could be added.

Where would the sentence best fit? Select a location [▪] to add the sentence to the passage.

Some mills could be turned so their sails faced changing wind directions more effectively.

  1. [A]
  2. [B]
  3. [C]
  4. [D]

  • spellcheck Answers

    1. Answer: A

    (A) The correct answer is basic. In the passage, "The development of windmills marked an important step in the history of mechanical power." shows that the word is closest in meaning to "basic".

    (B) decorative is incorrect because that meaning does not fit the way the word is used in the sentence

    (C) fragile is incorrect because that meaning does not fit the way the word is used in the sentence

    (D) imported is incorrect because that meaning does not fit the way the word is used in the sentence

    2. Answer: C

    (C) The correct answer is They were always highly complex from the beginning. This question asks for the choice that is NOT mentioned or supported. The passage gives support for They could help grind grain.; Some used cloth sails.; They were valuable where flowing water was limited., but it does not support "They were always highly complex from the beginning."

    (A) They could help grind grain. is incorrect because the passage does mention this point; However, not all early windmills remained rudimentary.

    (B) Some used cloth sails. is incorrect because the passage does mention this point; However, not all early windmills remained rudimentary.

    (D) They were valuable where flowing water was limited. is incorrect because the passage does mention this point; These devices were especially valuable in regions where flowing water was limited.

    3. Answer: A

    (A) The correct answer is They made windmills more reliable and useful for more tasks. In the passage, "Some of the earliest windmills were simple in design." supports the inference that "They made windmills more reliable and useful for more tasks."

    (B) They removed the need for sails entirely. is incorrect because it is not supported by what the passage implies

    (C) They prevented windmills from spreading between regions. is incorrect because it goes beyond what the passage suggests; the support points instead to Some of the earliest windmills were simple in design.

    (D) They made wind power less efficient than before. is incorrect because it is not supported by what the passage implies

    4. Answer: A

    (A) The correct answer is It spread between regions in more complex ways than once believed. In the passage, "Recent discoveries have also shown that windmill technology may have spread between regions in more complex ways than researchers once believed." directly supports "It spread between regions in more complex ways than once believed."

    (B) It was used only for decorative buildings. is incorrect because the passage does not support that detail

    (C) It depended entirely on metal sails. is incorrect because the passage does not support that detail

    (D) It appeared only after steam engines were invented. is incorrect because the passage does not support that detail

    5. Answer: C

    (C) The correct answer is Position C. This position follows the sentence “However, not all early windmills remained rudimentary,” which clearly introduces a shift toward technological improvements. The added sentence fits perfectly here as a specific example of that improvement, and it smoothly leads into the next sentence about improved gears and stronger towers. The structure becomes: contrast → example → further developments.

    (A) Position A. Too early—this part describes simple windmills. The sentence adds an advanced feature, which contradicts that idea.

    (B) Position B. It comes before “However,” which introduces improvement. Adding the sentence here makes the contrast unclear or repetitive.

    (D) Position D. Too late—the paragraph is summarizing. Adding a specific detail here breaks the general flow.

Vocabulary

Learn how to answer question 1 in a step-by-step interactive exercise

For more sample questions and reading tips, see our TOEFL Reading test guide and the TOEFL reading question types.

TOEFL Listening Changes in 2026

The Listening section now has 47 questions in about 29 minutes, and the long lectures of the old test are replaced by shorter recordings. The section is adaptive: everyone starts with an 18-minute first stage, then gets a second stage of about 7 or 11 minutes, depending on how well the first stage went. Every recording plays only once, and each question has its own timer of 20 or 30 seconds, so you cannot save time for later questions.

TOEFL listening test screen

Listen and Choose a Response

You hear one short sentence or question from a speaker, then choose the best reply from four options. It feels like a quick exchange with a classmate or a staff member. Tip: listen for the purpose of what is said (a request, a complaint, an offer), because the right reply answers that purpose, not just the words.

Listen and Choose a Response TOEFL Listening Sample Question

In the Choose a Response task, you'll listen to a short question or statement and choose the most appropriate response.

TOEFL Listening Choose a Response speaker

  1. It is required for my degree.
  2. Language apps are popular.
  3. Let us practice together sometime.
  4. Have you tried that Spanish restaurant?
  • spellcheck Answer

    Answer: A

    (A) The correct answer is It is required for my degree. This is the only choice that gives a reason for learning Spanish.

    (B) Language apps are popular. is incorrect because it is unrelated to the speaker's reason.

    (C) Let us practice together sometime. is incorrect because it is a suggestion, not the reason for learning the language.

    (D) Have you tried that Spanish restaurant? is incorrect because it is unrelated.

    Transcript

    Why are you learning Spanish?

TOEFL Listening Choose a Response speaker

  1. Yes, I can help you with it.
  2. The keyboard is new.
  3. It is in the top drawer.
  4. That is very expensive.
  • spellcheck Answer

    Answer: A

    (A) The correct answer is Yes, I can help you with it. This is the direct positive response that fits "Can you show me how to use this app?".

    (B) The keyboard is new. is incorrect because it is unrelated.

    (C) It is in the top drawer. is incorrect because it gives a location, not help with the app.

    (D) That is very expensive. is incorrect because it is unrelated.

    Transcript

    Can you show me how to use this app?

TOEFL Listening Choose a Response speaker

  1. On the rack.
  2. It is thirty-five dollars.
  3. The fabric is soft.
  4. Very little time.
  • spellcheck Answer

    Answer: B

    (B) The correct answer is It is thirty-five dollars. This is the only choice that answers the price question in "What is the price of this sweater?".

    (A) On the rack. is incorrect because it gives a location, not a price.

    (C) The fabric is soft. is incorrect because it describes the sweater, not the cost.

    (D) Very little time. is incorrect because it is unrelated.

    Transcript

    What is the price of this sweater?

Listen to a Conversation

You hear a short everyday conversation between two people, for example two students or a student and an employee, and answer questions about it. Questions ask about the main topic, details, and why a speaker does or says something. Tip: note the problem the speakers discuss and the solution they reach.

TOEFL listening test conversation screen

Listen to a Conversation TOEFL Listening Sample Question

In the Listen to a Conversation task, you'll listen to a short conversation and answer 2 questions.

TOEFL Listening conversation between two students
1. Why does the woman need to reprint the posters?
  1. They listed the wrong meeting room
  2. The printer produced only six copies
  3. The posters curled beside an open window
  4. The first print run failed the margin check.
2. What does the man say about the cash box?
  1. It contains money for the printing
  2. The woman will bring it from the library
  3. The cash is stored in a closet.
  4. The treasurer will place it on the table

  • spellcheck Answers

    1. Answer: D

    (D) The first print run failed the margin check. is correct because the woman states, "The copy center sent the first batch back. They said the scan code was sitting right on the border." The first print run failed the margin check.

    (A) They listed the wrong meeting room is incorrect because the ecology lab is only the meeting place. She does not say the posters had the wrong room.

    (B) The printer produced only six copies is incorrect because six is what her student card can pay for now, not why the first batch came back.

    (C) The posters curled beside an open window is incorrect because that happened to last week's posters and is why he will bring clips.

    2. Answer: C

    (C) The cash is stored in a closet. is correct because the man states, "The treasurer left it in the closet with the extra paper, so I will grab it when I set up." The cash box is stored in a closet.

    (A) It contains money for the printing is incorrect because he says six copies are fine for the posters. The money box is for the sign up table, not her printing.

    (B) The woman will bring it from the library is incorrect because she is coming over after printing. He will grab the money box when he sets up.

    (D) The treasurer will place it on the table is incorrect because the treasurer already left it in the closet, and the man will grab it.

    Transcript

    Man: Can you still make the sustainability club meeting later?

    Woman: I think so, but I need to reprint the posters. The copy center sent the first batch back. They said the scan code was sitting right on the border.

    Man: We are gathering at 5:45 in the ecology lab. I can bring table clips. Last week's posters curled near the open window.

    Woman: Great. The library color printer is quick, but my student card has enough credit for only six copies. Do we need the club cash tonight?

    Man: Six is fine for the posters. I still need the money box at the sign up table. The treasurer left it in the closet with the extra paper, so I will grab it when I set up.

    Woman: Perfect. I will come over as soon as the printing finishes.

Reason for action

Learn how to answer question 1 in a step-by-step interactive exercise

Listen to an Announcement

You hear a short announcement, such as a message from a professor or a notice on campus, and answer questions about its purpose and key details. Tip: pay attention to dates, changes, and instructions, because announcements often tell listeners what to do differently.

TOEFL listening test announcement screen

Listen to an Announcement TOEFL Listening Sample Question

In the Listen to an Announcement task, you'll listen to a short announcement and answer 2 questions.

TOEFL Listening announcement speaker
1. Why does the speaker mention independent research projects and conference travel?
  1. To list the topics that will be covered in the workshop
  2. To explain the eligibility requirements for attending
  3. To describe outcomes achieved by previous workshop attendees
  4. To advertise new funding opportunities for the semester
2. What is the main purpose of the announcement?
  1. To announce deadline changes for current grant applications
  2. To describe a new graduate admissions requirement
  3. To invite students to a grant writing workshop
  4. To introduce a visiting professor's research seminar

  • spellcheck Answers

    1. Answer: C

    (C) The correct answer is To describe outcomes achieved by previous workshop attendees.. In the announcement, "Attendees from previous workshops have gone on to secure funding for independent research projects and conference travel." shows why the author or speaker mentions that detail, so "To describe outcomes achieved by previous workshop attendees." is the best explanation of its function.

    (A) To list the topics that will be covered in the workshop. is incorrect because the author or speaker mentions the detail to support a different purpose, not this one

    (B) To explain the eligibility requirements for attending. is incorrect because the author or speaker mentions the detail to support a different purpose, not this one

    (D) To advertise new funding opportunities for the semester. is incorrect because the author or speaker mentions the detail to support a different purpose, not this one

    2. Answer: C

    (C) The correct answer is To invite students to a grant writing workshop.. The announcement as a whole conveys this purpose, as supported by "The graduate school is presenting a grant writing workshop this Wednesday.".

    (A) To announce deadline changes for current grant applications. is incorrect because the overall purpose of the announcement is different from what this choice describes.

    (B) To describe a new graduate admissions requirement. is incorrect because the overall purpose of the announcement is different from what this choice describes.

    (D) To introduce a visiting professor's research seminar. is incorrect because the overall purpose of the announcement is different from what this choice describes.

    Transcript

    Listen to an announcement at a student center.

    Attention all students! The graduate school is presenting a grant writing workshop this Wednesday at two p.m. in the student center conference room. A panel of funded researchers will walk you through the process of writing competitive grant proposals, from identifying funding sources to structuring a persuasive narrative. Attendees from previous workshops have gone on to secure funding for independent research projects and conference travel. All students considering graduate-level research are strongly encouraged to attend.

Function

Learn how to answer question 1 in a step-by-step interactive exercise

Listen to an Academic Talk

You hear a short talk on an academic subject, up to about 250 words, much like a brief part of a class. Questions ask about the main idea, important details, and how the speaker organizes the ideas. Tip: take short notes on the main point and each example, since you hear the talk only once.

Listen to an Academic Talk TOEFL Listening Sample Question

In the Listen to an Academic Talk task, you'll listen to a short academic talk and answer 4 questions.

TOEFL Listening academic talk speaker
1. According to the speaker, what makes neural networks different from traditional programs?
  1. They only process numerical data, not text or images
  2. They learn patterns from data rather than following developer-written rules
  3. They require government certification for every application
  4. They process data faster than any other computing system available today
2. Why does the speaker mention teaching a child to recognize animals?
  1. To describe the physical hardware used in neural network laboratories
  2. To illustrate how neural networks learn patterns from examples rather than explicit rules
  3. To suggest that students should study animal biology before computer science
  4. To explain why printed textbooks are more reliable than digital learning tools
3. What is the talk mainly about?
  1. Why traditional programming is more reliable than all machine learning systems
  2. The complete history of computing from the 1940s to today
  3. Brain-inspired computing systems, their key concepts, and their potential despite challenges
  4. How to build a neural network for personal investment decisions
4. How does the speaker connect deep learning to neural networks' broader impact?
  1. Deep learning proves that neural networks are too complex for any real-world use
  2. Multi-layered processing enables applications like self-driving cars that interpret complex visual information
  3. Deep learning requires more programmers than traditional software development does
  4. Deep learning shows that neural networks only work for image recognition tasks

  • spellcheck Answers

    1. Answer: B

    (B) The correct answer is They learn patterns from data rather than following developer-written rules. The speaker contrasts data-driven learning with explicit rule-writing.

    (A) is incorrect because neural networks process multiple data types. (C) is incorrect because government certification isn't required. (D) is incorrect because processing speed isn't the distinguishing feature.

    2. Answer: B

    (B) The correct answer is To illustrate how neural networks learn patterns from examples rather than explicit rules. The child-learning analogy explains the training process.

    (A) is incorrect because physical hardware isn't described by this analogy. (C) is incorrect because biology study advice isn't the purpose. (D) is incorrect because textbook reliability isn't argued.

    3. Answer: C

    (C) The correct answer is Brain-inspired computing systems, their key concepts, and their potential despite challenges. The talk covers training, deep learning, applications, and black-box concerns.

    (A) is incorrect because traditional programming superiority isn't argued. (B) is incorrect because the full history of computing isn't the scope. (D) is incorrect because personal investment isn't discussed.

    4. Answer: B

    (B) The correct answer is Multi-layered processing enables applications like self-driving cars that interpret complex visual information. The speaker links deep layers to real-time object recognition in autonomous vehicles.

    (A) is incorrect because deep learning demonstrates real capability. (C) is incorrect because programmer requirements aren't the main point. (D) is incorrect because applications extend beyond image recognition.

    Transcript

    Listen to a talk in a class about artificial neural networks.

    Today, we're going to explore artificial neural networks, which are basically computing systems inspired by the human brain that could change how we solve problems in everything from medicine to transportation. Unlike traditional programs, where a developer writes explicit rules for every decision, neural networks learn patterns from data on their own. This makes them fundamentally different from the rule-based software most industries have relied on for decades.

    Take the concept of training, for instance. Training means feeding a neural network massive amounts of data—images, text, numbers—and letting it adjust its internal connections until it can make accurate predictions or classifications. It's like teaching a child to recognize animals by showing them thousands of photos—you don't give them a list of rules about what makes a dog a dog; they just figure out the patterns by seeing enough examples. This pattern-learning ability is what makes neural networks powerful at tasks like image recognition and language translation.

    Another crucial concept is deep learning. Deep learning uses neural networks with many layers—sometimes hundreds—each of which extracts increasingly complex features from the data. The first layers might detect simple edges in an image, while deeper layers combine those edges into shapes, and even deeper layers recognize entire objects. This layered processing is what allows systems like self-driving cars to identify pedestrians, traffic signs, and road markings in real time.

    The potential applications are enormous—medical imaging diagnosis, fraud detection, personalized recommendations, autonomous vehicles. However, neural networks are often called black boxes because it's difficult to understand exactly how they reach their conclusions. The massive computational resources required for training, combined with concerns about bias in training data and lack of explainability, make regulation and transparency critical. Despite these challenges, neural networks remain one of the most transformative technologies in modern computing.

Detail - Academic Talk

Learn how to answer question 1 in a step-by-step interactive exercise

For more sample questions with audio, see our TOEFL Listening test guide and the TOEFL listening question types.

TOEFL Speaking Changes in 2026

Speaking changed the most. The four old tasks and their 17 minutes are gone. The new section has 11 questions in about 8 minutes, split into two parts, and it comes last in the test. There is no reading or note-taking before you speak.

TOEFL speaking test screen

Listen and Repeat

You hear 7 sentences, one at a time, and say each one back exactly as you heard it. The sentences start short and get longer. This task checks pronunciation, rhythm, and how well you hold a sentence in memory. Tip: repeat in meaningful word groups instead of single words, and keep the speaker's stress and intonation.

Listen and Repeat TOEFL Speaking Sample Question

You are learning to use a coffee machine. Listen to your trainer and repeat what he says. Repeat only once.

TOEFL Speaking Listen and Repeat picture

  • spellcheck Answer
    Begin by filling the water chamber with clean water.

Listen to the audio, then click to record what you just heard.

TOEFL Speaking Listen and Repeat picture

  • spellcheck Answer
    Insert a coffee filter into the holder.

Listen to the audio, then click to record what you just heard.

TOEFL Speaking Listen and Repeat picture

  • spellcheck Answer
    Set the timer if you want coffee ready before morning.

Listen to the audio, then click to record what you just heard.

TOEFL Speaking Listen and Repeat picture

  • spellcheck Answer
    Place your mug on the drip tray before brewing starts.

Listen to the audio, then click to record what you just heard.

TOEFL Speaking Listen and Repeat picture

  • spellcheck Answer
    Choose the drink strength you want on the control panel.

Listen to the audio, then click to record what you just heard.

TOEFL Speaking Listen and Repeat picture

  • spellcheck Answer
    Avoid spills by keeping the water tank below the top line.

Listen to the audio, then click to record what you just heard.

TOEFL Speaking Listen and Repeat picture

  • spellcheck Answer
    Clean the coffee maker at least monthly for the best results.

Listen to the audio, then click to record what you just heard.


Take an Interview

An interviewer asks you 4 questions on one theme, and you answer each one for 45 seconds. There is no preparation time, so you start speaking right after the question. Tip: give a direct answer in your first sentence, then support it with one reason and one example from your own life.

Take an Interview TOEFL Speaking Sample Question

You have agreed to take part in a research study about cooking at home. You will have a short online interview with a researcher. The researcher will ask you some questions.

Question 1

  • spellcheck Transcript
    Thank you for participating. Today I'd like to ask about cooking when your schedule changes every week. How do you decide whether a given evening is a cook-at-home night or an eat-out night?
  • Sample Response

    Well, on weeks when my schedule keeps shifting, I try to make the decision during my mid afternoon coffee break. First, I quickly look at my calendar and ask myself how much mental energy I still have after work. If I see an evening meeting or a late gym session, I quietly tell myself that takeout is perfectly fine, and I move on. Conversely, when I notice a free block, I get excited about using up the vegetables in the fridge. In either case, I text my partner so we stay on the same page.

Watch the video question, then click to record your answer.

Question 2

  • spellcheck Transcript
    Great. If you had to cut your grocery budget by twenty percent, would you buy cheaper staples, smaller portions of protein, or fewer specialty items first? Why?
  • Sample Response

    Honestly, if I suddenly needed to shave twenty percent off the grocery bill, I would attack the specialty items first because they are the biggest silent wallet drain. For example, fancy cheeses, imported sauces, and single purpose spices look innocent, but they add up quickly. After trimming those, I would compare unit prices on staples and reach for store brands, though I would still keep whole grains and fresh produce. I would try to leave protein portions almost unchanged since they keep me full and stop me from snacking on more expensive convenience foods later.

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Question 3

  • spellcheck Transcript
    Interesting. Some people film every meal they make; others never share food online. What effect, positive or negative, do you think food content on social media has on how people cook?
  • Sample Response

    Right, so when I think about food videos flooding my feeds, I see a double edged situation. On the positive side, short recipe clips give busy home cooks quick inspiration and demonstrate techniques that used to feel intimidating, like folding dumplings or tempering chocolate. As a result, many people cook more often and waste fewer ingredients. On the negative side, the constant parade of perfectly lit dishes sets unrealistic standards. Some viewers start believing every meal must look restaurant level, which can create guilt and push them toward costly gadgets or unnecessary ingredients.

Watch the video question, then click to record your answer.

Question 4

  • spellcheck Transcript
    Good points. One last question. Should high schools require at least one hands-on cooking course, or is that a poor use of limited class time?
  • Sample Response

    Personally, I think every high school student should experience at least one practical cooking class. For one thing, many teenagers will move out within a few years, and knowing how to plan meals and handle raw food safely is as important as balancing a budget. Moreover, cooking lessons can reinforce biology and chemistry concepts in a tasty way, so the time is not really lost. Admittedly, schedules are crowded, yet a single semester elective or a week long workshop could fit without displacing core academics, and the lifelong benefits would justify the effort.

Watch the video question, then click to record your answer.

Task Fulfillment

Learn how to answer these questions in a step-by-step interactive exercise

For more sample questions and scoring advice, see our TOEFL Speaking test guide and the TOEFL speaking rubric.

TOEFL Writing Changes in 2026

The Writing section now has 12 questions in about 23 minutes. The integrated writing task, where you summarized a reading and a lecture, is removed. Two new tasks join the Academic Discussion task, which is the only task kept from the previous test.

TOEFL writing test screen

Build a Sentence

You see a short exchange where the reply is missing, plus a set of word chunks. You put the chunks in the right order to build a correct reply. There are 10 items in about 6 minutes, and one chunk may not be needed. Tip: find the subject and the main verb first, then place the question words and helpers around them.

Build a Sentence TOEFL Writing Sample Question
TOEFL Writing Build a Sentence speaker I'm thinking about starting a weekly strength routine.
TOEFL Writing Build a Sentence reply it ?
include
any
new exercises
do
will
  • spellcheck Answers
    Will it include any new exercises?

Build a Sentence

Learn how to answer this question in a step-by-step interactive exercise

Write an Email

You read a short situation and write an email that covers each point you are given, for example to explain a problem and ask for help. You have 7 minutes. Tip: answer every point in its own short paragraph, and use a polite tone that fits the person you write to.

Write an Email TOEFL Writing Sample Question
You are helping organize an employee wellness day at your company next month. Before the event, someone needs to confirm a venue, arrange refreshments, and plan activity stations. You want coworkers to volunteer and help with preparation.

Write an email to your coworkers. In your email, do the following:

- Explain what still needs to be organized for the wellness day.
- Suggest a suitable location for the event.
- Ask for volunteers to support planning and event-day tasks.

Write as much as you can and complete the sentences.

Sample Email

Dear All Employees,

I am writing because we have started preparing next month's employee wellness day, and there are several details that still need to be organized. We need help confirming a venue, arranging healthy refreshments, and planning short activity stations such as stretching, stress-management, and team games.

I would like to suggest using the Riverside Activity Center. It has both indoor and outdoor space, enough seating for group sessions, and convenient parking for staff from different office locations.

If you are interested in helping, please let me know. Even volunteering for one part of the event, such as registration or activity support, would be very helpful.

Thank you, and I hope many of you can join the planning team.

Best regards,
Jordan Kim

Task Fulfillment — Email

Learn how to answer this question in a step-by-step interactive exercise

Write for an Academic Discussion

You read a professor's question on a class discussion board and two student replies, then write your own post with your opinion. You have 10 minutes. Tip: state your view clearly, add a new reason the other students did not give, and support it with an example.

Academic Discussion TOEFL Writing Sample Question
Your professor is teaching a class on Money. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.

In your response you should:
- express and support your opinion
- make a contribution to the discussion

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.

Professor

We've been discussing the shift toward cashless payment systems. Some people believe digital payments improve convenience, speed, and security, while others argue they create exclusion risks for people without stable access to banking or technology. What is your opinion on a largely cashless society?

Two posts from students


Paul

I think cashless systems are beneficial. They make transactions faster, reduce theft risk, and help users manage spending through digital records. In many contexts, cashless payments improve efficiency for both customers and businesses.


Sunny

I think cashless systems can be harmful if they become the only option. Not everyone has equal access to smartphones, internet service, or bank accounts. A payment system should remain inclusive, especially for vulnerable groups.

Sample Post

In my opinion, society should move toward mostly digital payment, but it should not remove cash completely. Electronic payment is useful because it leaves a clear trail for taxes and makes it easier for small shops to sell online or at street events without keeping many coins. However, a country also needs a back-up plan. During a power cut, a storm, or a problem with a payment company, people still need to buy food, medicine, and bus tickets. Cash also gives people some privacy for simple daily purchases. For this reason, I support a mixed system: digital payment as the normal choice, with cash protected for emergencies and basic public services.

Task Fulfillment — Discussion

Learn how to answer this question in a step-by-step interactive exercise

For more sample questions and answer structures, see our TOEFL Writing test guide and the TOEFL writing rubric.

What Is the New TOEFL Multistage Adaptive Testing?

The TOEFL Reading and Listening sections use a multistage adaptive format, which means the test adapts to your performance as you go:

  • First stage: every test taker starts with the same set of questions.
  • Second stage: based on your first-stage results, you get either a harder or an easier set of questions. Strong performers see more challenging questions, while others see questions closer to their level.

This approach gives a more accurate measure of your English, because the test fits your skill level.

Benefits of the Adaptive Format

  • Personalized assessment: question difficulty matches your level, so the score reflects your real skills.
  • Shorter test: fewer questions are needed to measure your English accurately.
  • Improved fairness: the content focuses on real-world academic and everyday English, so test takers of every background have an equal chance.

These changes are part of ETS's plan to keep the TOEFL iBT relevant for today's international students.

New Simplified TOEFL Scores: 1-6 Band Scale

Since January 2026, TOEFL iBT scores are reported on a simple 1-6 band scale, along with the familiar 0-120 scale. The band scale lines up with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), so universities and students can read a score more easily. ETS provides training materials to help schools adjust to the new scores.

Faster TOEFL Score Delivery Within 72 Hours

Other improvements include score delivery within 72 hours, better test-center audio with headphones designed by Koss, new official preparation resources, and a redesigned registration process. Together they are ETS's largest investment in the TOEFL iBT so far.

ETS to Enhance Fairness and Accessibility

Another major part of the TOEFL changes in 2026 is a focus on academic authenticity and cultural neutrality. ETS has revised the test content to reflect real academic and everyday situations while reducing cultural bias, so students from every background have a fair chance to succeed.

For more details, read the official announcement: ETS Press Release

How to Prepare for the New TOEFL Format

Prepare for the new TOEFL format with a practice test

Preparing effectively for the new TOEFL requires more than reviewing English skills with older study materials. You need to become comfortable with the updated task types, the short timer for each Listening question, the adaptive Reading and Listening sections, and the demands of completing the 90-minute test without a break. Practicing in the current format from the beginning helps you build the right skills, pacing, and confidence for test day.

BestMyTest gives you that experience. All lessons, practice questions, and simulation tests follow the new TOEFL format, including the adaptive Reading and Listening sections. Instead of being surprised by the test, you can learn how it works, identify what is limiting your score, and improve through focused practice.

play_circle_outlineStart New TOEFL Sample Test

A strong study plan follows a simple cycle: test, review, improve, and retest. Begin with a practice test to establish your TOEFL band score in each section. Review the results to find the question types and English skills that need the most attention, spend the next 5 to 7 days improving those areas, and then take another test to measure your progress. Repeating this cycle turns every practice test into a clear plan for what to study next.

For a complete preparation schedule, see our guide to choosing and using an online TOEFL preparation course.

Tip 1: Practice Every 2026 TOEFL Question Type

Practice every updated Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing task until the instructions and response formats feel familiar. Materials created for the current test help you develop relevant strategies and avoid spending valuable study time on question types that no longer appear.

Tip 2: Review Mistakes and Use AI Tutor

Do not stop after checking whether an answer was right or wrong. Look for the skill behind each recurring mistake—such as vocabulary, grammar, comprehension, or pronunciation—then use targeted AI Tutor exercises to strengthen that skill. Apply what you learn to new TOEFL questions so the same weakness does not continue to lower your score.

Tip 3: Use Speaking and Writing Feedback

Use detailed feedback to understand exactly what is holding back your Speaking and Writing scores. Focus on specific areas such as pronunciation, fluency, grammar, vocabulary, organization, and supporting details. After working on those skills, submit another response and compare the feedback to confirm that your performance is improving.

Tip 4: Use Full-Length Adaptive Practice Tests

Full-length adaptive simulations prepare you for challenges that isolated questions cannot reproduce. They help you learn the testing interface, manage your time, maintain concentration for 90 minutes, and experience how Reading and Listening change after the first stage. Review each score report before taking another test so every simulation guides your next round of study.

Tip 5: Build English Skills With Lessons

Test strategies are useful, but they cannot replace strong English skills. Combine TOEFL practice with lessons in grammar, comprehension, vocabulary, pronunciation, speaking fluency, and writing organization. A stronger foundation makes it easier to respond accurately even when the topic or wording is unfamiliar.

Tip 6: Focus Your Schedule on Weak Areas

Avoid dividing your study time equally when your scores show that some areas need more attention than others. Prioritize the sections and skills with the greatest potential for improvement, then use later practice tests to confirm your progress and refine your schedule. This focused approach helps you make better use of every study session.

More Free Resources for the New TOEFL Format

Guide TOEFL

TOEFL Templates

TOEFL Question Types

Preparazione TOEFL

TOEFL Rubrics

TOEFL Reviews

Vocabolario TOEFL

Apprendimento dell'inglese

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