Why the TOEFL Is One of the Best English Tests for International Students

If you're planning to study in the U.S. (or even in Canada, Australia, or parts of Europe), one of the biggest things you’ll need to show schools is proof of English proficiency. That’s where standardized tests like TOEFL, IELTS, and MET come in. But today, we’re zooming in on one of the most trusted—and widely accepted—English tests out there: the TOEFL.

Whether you're just starting your study abroad journey or narrowing down your test prep options, here's everything you need to know about why the TOEFL might be your best choice.

🧠 What Is TOEFL?

TOEFL stands for the Test of English as a Foreign Language, and it’s designed to measure how well you understand and use English in an academic setting.

It’s most commonly taken in the TOEFL iBT format (Internet-Based Test), which is taken on a computer and includes four sections:

1. Reading – Understand university-level texts

2. Listening – Comprehend lectures and classroom conversations

3. Speaking – Express opinions and respond to academic questions

4. Writing – Write academic essays and summaries

🌎 Why Choose TOEFL?

Here’s why TOEFL stands out from the crowd:

1. Accepted Almost Everywhere

TOEFL is accepted by over 13,500 institutions in more than 160 countries, including nearly 100% of universities in the U.S.. So if your dream school is Harvard, UCLA, NYU, or a community college—TOEFL is probably on their list.

💡 Pro Tip: Even schools in countries like Canada, Australia, the UK, and New Zealand accept TOEFL scores, so you keep your options wide open.

2. Academic English = Real Preparation

TOEFL uses university-style content—lectures, academic vocabulary, campus situations—which makes it perfect if you're heading to a college classroom. It doesn’t just test your English; it gets you ready to use English in real academic life.

📚 Expect to read passages about psychology, astronomy, or art history. You’ll listen to lectures or class discussions. It’s the kind of language you’ll hear every day in college.

3. Fully Computer-Based = Consistency

Unlike some other tests where the speaking section is done face-to-face with an examiner, the TOEFL iBT has you speak into a microphone. This can actually feel less intimidating for many students and ensures consistency—you're graded by certified raters using the same scoring system for everyone.

🎧 Bonus: You can take TOEFL from an official test center or even at home with the TOEFL iBT Home Edition (if it's available in your country).

4. Fast Results + Detailed Feedback

Your TOEFL results are available in 4–8 days, and you’ll get a detailed breakdown of your scores in each section—so you know exactly where you shine and where to improve.

📈 Scores range from 0 to 120 total, with 30 points in each section. Many schools require a total score between 70–100+, depending on the program.

5. Lots of Prep Tools Available

Because TOEFL is so popular, there are tons of free and paid resources out there to help you prep without stress:

💻 Official Resources:

• TOEFL Go! App – Real questions, speaking practice, and more

• ETS Official Guide to TOEFL iBT – Available in PDF or print

• Free Sample Tests on ETS.org

🛠️ Other Helpful Tools:

• Magoosh – Affordable and super helpful video lessons

• TestDen – Simulates the full TOEFL test experience

• Khan Academy – Perfect for brushing up on reading and writing skills

• YouTube Channels – Like Noteful and TST Prep for TOEFL strategies

✨ Is TOEFL Right for You?

Choose TOEFL if you:

✅ Are applying to U.S. colleges or universities
✅ Prefer academic-style English and content
✅ Like the idea of a computer-based, standardized test
✅ Want access to tons of test prep options and practice material
✅ Need a test that's globally accepted and widely respected

🎯 Final Tip

Choosing an English test is a big step—but it doesn’t have to be a stressful one. The TOEFL offers structure, consistency, and the kind of academic focus that prepares you not just for admission—but for success in a real U.S. classroom.

If you're aiming high with your education goals, TOEFL is a smart, strategic move. To learn more, click here.