TOEFL is an internationally accepted test for English language. One can opt for pursuing higher education at the university level in countries including US, UK and Canada, after clearing the entrance exam. The entrance test is conducted in two modes - Internet Based Test (IBT) and Paper Based Test (PBT). Since it is a highly competitive entrance test, TOEFL IBT Test scores are finalized after a complicated procedure. It has different evaluation of marks for each section i.e. reading, listening, writing and speaking. Candidates wishing to appear for the IBT format the entrance test should have thorough understanding of the test scoring procedure. This article will focus on how to understand TOEFL IBT Test scores, according to each section.
Understand Test of English as a Foreign Language Internet Based Test Scoring Process
Listening
- The listening section of the TOEFL IBT has 34-51 tasks on listening, classroom discussions and conversations, then answering questions.
- This section is marked with a score ranging from 0 to 30.
Reading
- The reading section of TOEFL IBT Test is also marked with a score ranging from 0 to 30.
- It has 36-70 tasks, which are based upon reading passages from academic texts and answering questions.
Speaking
- In this section of TOEFL IBT Test, each of six tasks is rated from 0 to 4 and the sum is converted to a scaled score of 0 to 30.
- ETS-certified test scorers evaluate candidates’ responses i.e. how well you develop your topic and deliver your message in English.
Writing
The writing section is generally scored by evaluating the integrated writing task for organization, development, grammar, accuracy, vocabulary and completeness and rating the independent writing essay on overall writing quality, including development, organization, grammar and vocabulary.
In this section, two tasks are rated from 0 to 5 and the sum is converted to a scaled score of 0 to 30.
Scores through human ratings are anonymous to ensure fairness and highest quality.
ERater (automated scoring technology) is used with human ratings to score the independent writing task.