One of the in-demand language proficiency exams is the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language).
And also, the TOEFL is widely used and preferred by most educational organizations, including prominent universities and colleges in the Ivy League Schools.
Moreover, many international institutions such as immigration offices and multinational companies worldwide also accept and recognize this exam as part of their work requirements.
There are two commonly known formats of the TOEFL exam:
- TOEFL iBT (Internet-Based Test)
- TOEFL PBT (Paper-Based Test)
However, the TOEFL iBT is frequently used and preferred by test-takers because of its accessibility and convenience.
While the TOEFL PBT is only offered in those areas where the iBT is not accessible.
When the pandemic hit most countries worldwide, many establishments were forcibly closed due to lockdowns, including the various language exam testing centers.
Due to this current problem, the TOEFL Essentials is gaining popularity because of how easy it is to book and take this exam in the comfort of your home.
Many are confused about the difference between the TOEFL iBT and TOEFL Essentials since both of these language exams can be taken using the computer.
And both are internet-based versions of the TOEFL exam. Are they different? Or are they still the same exam but with other names?
In this article, we will compare the TOEFL iBT and TOEFL Essentials. We will also show you their differences in the exam structure, fees, frequency, availability of testing centers, test scoring, exam requirements, and more.
- What is the TOEFL iBT?
- What is TOEFL Essentials?
- Exam Fees: TOEFL iBT vs. TOEFL Essentials
- Exam Structure: TOEFL iBT vs. TOEFL Essentials
- Exam Frequency: TOEFL iBT vs. TOEFL Essentials
- Scoring Difference: TOEFL iBT vs. TOEFL Essentials
- Test Requirements: TOEFL iBT vs. TOEFL Essentials
- Test Recognition: TOEFL iBT vs. TOEFL Essentials
- Which Is Easier: TOEFL iBT or TOEFL Essentials?
- Comparison Table: Summary of Exam Features between TOEFL iBT vs. TOEFL Essentials
- Additional FAQs — TOEFL Essentials vs TOEFL iBT
What is the TOEFL iBT?
The TOEFL iBT is the internet-based format of the TOEFL exam in which you are to use a computer in taking it.
This English language exam was first released on the market last 2005, and it replaced the TOEFL CBT (Computer-Based Test).
In addition, the TOEFL iBT measures the English language abilities such as reading, listening, speaking, and writing.
The TOEFL iBT is a type of language proficiency exam that is highly academic, which means that most of its test contents are derived from higher education coursework that is commonly encountered at a university or college level.
And it is also favored and one of the top choices of most educational institutions when it comes to language proficiency exams. It is because of its capacity to assess an applicant’s skill in using the English language at a university level.
Consequently, the TOEFL iBT has also been known to measure the English integrated language skills, which helps deliver an accurate assessment of one’s English language abilities.
And also, these English integrated language skills show the individual’s readiness to use the English language in an academic setting.
What is TOEFL Essentials?
Another exam offered by the TOEFL is the TOEFL Essentials Test. It is a standardized language proficiency exam with an innovative and multiadaptive type of test structure.
In addition, this exam was designed to assess primary English language skills, including writing, listening, speaking, and reading.
It also has an additional test section, the Personal Video Statement, a five-minute session given to the test-taker to present one’s ideas and opinions.
The TOEFL Essentials is also known as the shorter format of the TOEFL iBT, wherein it only lasts one hour and 30 minutes.
Even if this is a short version of the TOEFL iBT, it delivers quality and high standard assessment of one’s language abilities.
And because of its multiadaptive test format, it is pretty easy, and it also adjusts to the skill level of the test-taker, making it more manageable and providing an excellent experience to its takers.
Moreover, the TOEFL Essentials was recently launched by the ETS (Educational Testing Center) to make the language exam more accessible to all test-takers worldwide and reach those individuals who cannot easily access the TOEFL testing centers because of the pandemic.
Currently, most of the official TOEFL testing centers located in different countries that are badly hit by the COVID19 are closed.
Most test schedules are postponed because of the lockdowns and strict restrictions imposed by the government.
Exam Fees: TOEFL iBT vs. TOEFL Essentials
The exam fees for both the TOEFL iBT and TOEFL Essentials differ significantly. The standard price for the TOEFL iBT is USD 185, while the TOEFL Essentials cost around USD 100 to USD 120. Note that these exam fees differ per country.
There are additional fees for different services you wish to avail of, such as the reinstatement of canceled scores, additional score reports, score reviews, etc.
And also have an extra charge for late registration, rescheduling, and other services.
The TOEFL Essentials is also noticeably cheaper in pricing than the TOEFL iBT.
For example, the TOEFL iBT standard fee is around USD 185, while the TOEFL Essentials only cost approximately USD 100 to USD 120.
In addition, if you cannot take the exam on your given schedule, you can request a refund for your payment.
Both the TOEFL iBT and TOEFL Essentials accept test cancelations and refunds of fees.
However, you should be eligible and meet all the necessary refund conditions for them to approve your request.
However, for those who will take the TOEFL Essentials, it is essential to note that the exam test scores will not be reviewed and rescored.
The test taker can cancel or report the test scores after taking the exam.
And if you decide to cancel your test score, you can do so. But if you change your mind, it can be reinstated after your request arrives at ETS (Educational Testing Service) within the 60 days starting from your test date.
Unlike the TOEFL iBT, it allows score review for each test section, but you also need to pay the additional charge for it.
And also, we have provided an exam fee comparison table below between the TOEFL iBT and TOEFL Essentials.
Here is a table showing the TOEFL iBT exam fees vs. TOEFL Essentials exam fees.
| Exam Fees | TOEFL iBT | TOEFL Essentials |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Exam Fee | TOEFL iBT – USD 185 Varies per Test-Takers Location/Country | TOEFL Essentials – USD 100 to USD 120 Varies per Test-Takers Location/Country |
| Additional Fees: | Late Registration Fee – USD 40 Rescheduling Fee – USD 60 Reinstatement of canceled scores Fee- USD 20 Additional Score Report Fee – USD 20 Speaking or Writing Score Review Fee- USD 80 Speaking and Writing Test Section Score Review Fee – USD 120 each Returned Personal Check (Paper or Electronic) Fee – USD 20 | Late Registration Fee- USD 20 Rescheduling Fee- USD 30 Reinstatement of canceled scores Fee – USD 20 Additional Score Report Fee- USD 20 |
| Refunds: | Accepts and processes refund for exams fees following certain conditions | Accepts and processes refund for exams fees following certain conditions |
Exam Structure: TOEFL iBT vs. TOEFL Essentials
The TOEFL Essentials and the TOEFL iBT are both internet-based exams and can be taken using computers.
One of the differences between these language exams is that the TOEFL iBT is taken in their official testing centers, while the TOEFL Essentials can be taken in the comfort of your home.
Another key feature of the TOEFL Essentials is the exam duration, which only lasts one hour and 30 minutes.
Thus making it the shorter version of the TOEFL iBT exam, while the TOEFL iBT will take about three to four hours with an additional 30 minutes check-in period at the testing centers.
The TOEFL iBT has four test sections that measure the individual’s English abilities in reading, listening, speaking, and writing skills.
While the TOEFL Essentials also contains four test sections with an additional test section, the Personal Video Statement makes it five test sections in all.
| Test Sections | TOEFL iBT | TOEFL Essentials |
|---|---|---|
| TOEFL Reading Test Section | 30 to 40 test questions | 30 to 45 test questions |
| TOEFL Listening Test Section | 28 to 39 test questions | 30 to 45 test questions |
| TOEFL Speaking Test Section | 4 tasks | three tasks with 19 responses |
| TOEFL Writing Test Section | 2 tasks | 15 to 19 test questions — two tasks |
| Personal Video Statement | None | 2 test questions |
This additional section, the Personal Video Statement in the TOEFL Essentials, is not scored; however, you are still required to complete it when you take the exam.
And for the test scores availability, the TOEFL Essentials presents the unofficial test results after you have finished it. The official test scores or assessment results will be sent to your ETS account six days after taking the exam.
On the other hand, the TOEFL iBT official test scores will be available six to ten days after your scheduled test date and will also be sent to your ETS Account.
Note that the TOEFL exam tests, including TOEFL iBT and TOEFL Essentials official test scores, are both valid for two years.
Here is a table comparing the TOEFL iBT Exam vs. TOEFL Essentials Exam structures.
| Exam Structure | TOEFL iBT | TOEFL Essentials |
|---|---|---|
| Test Duration | 3 to 4 Hours with additional 30 minutes check-in period | 1 hour and 30 minutes |
| Test Version | None | None |
| Test Delivery Mode | Internet-based Test | Internet-based Test |
| Test Content | 100% Academic English Based Contexts | 50% Academic English Based Contexts 50% General English Based Contexts |
| English Skills that are assessed / Test Structure | Four Test Sections/Structure: Reading Writing Listening Speaking | Four Test Sections/Structure: Reading Writing Listening Speaking Additional Test Section: Personal Video Statement(not scored) |
| Test Scores Availability | Approximately ten days | Approximately six days |
| Test Scores Validity | Two years | Two years |
Exam Frequency: TOEFL iBT vs. TOEFL Essentials
The TOEFL iBT offers more than 60 prescheduled tests dates annually for its test-takers. The TOEFL Essentials has one to three days of weekly prescheduled test dates.
In addition, there is a simple registration process for the TOEFL Essentials, making it very convenient and accessible to its test-takers. You can quickly go to their official website and create an account.
Aside from the daily registration schedules offered by the TOEFL Essentials, you can take it directly using the computer you have at home without needing to go to testing centers, unlike for the TOEFL iBT, wherein you are to take the exam there.
However, around 4,500 testing centers are also located in different countries. These testing centers around the world administer the TOEFL iBT, reaching all the potential test-takers of the exam.
Since the TOEFL Essentials was recently launched, it has been officially accepted by 17 countries worldwide.
And also, more universities and colleges now accept and recognize the TOEFL Essentials in exchange for the TOEFL iBT, which requires the test-takers to take it in the testing centers.
Note that the number of countries that recognize the TOEFL Essentials test scores is increasing as of writing this article.
Due to the COVID19 outbreak and lockdowns implemented, many test-takers prefer the TOEFL Essentials Exam because it can be taken home so long as you have a conducive setting and necessary equipment suited for the language exam.
It is also necessary to know the TOEFL test score requirement of the university or college you want to apply to. These institutions have different TOEFL score requirements that they require of their applicants.
Here is a table showing a comprehensive detail of the Duolingo English Test and TOEFL exam frequency.
| Exam Frequency | TOEFL iBT | TOEFL Essentials |
|---|---|---|
| Scheduled Test Days Per Year | More than 60 Prescheduled Test Dates | With available test schedule 1 to 3 days per week |
| Availability of Testing Centers Worldwide | 4500 Testing Centers | No need to go to Testing Centers This exam is available using the internet and can be taken using computers at home. |
| Number of Countries that accept the Exam | Accepted in 190 Countries Worldwide | Accepted in 17 Countries Worldwide |
Scoring Difference: TOEFL iBT vs. TOEFL Essentials
Both the TOEFL iBT and TOEFL Essentials exams use a centralized network and automated AI scoring system in interpreting the overall test score of each exam.
This scoring system of the TOEFL exam provides an accurate and reliable rating devoid of biases from human interactions.
Thus, giving credibility and a high accuracy rate of test results and interpretation. In addition, there is no significant difference in the scoring procedure between the TOEFL iBT and TOEFL Essentials as it follows the standardized scoring system of the TOEFL exam.
However, the only scoring difference between these exams is the different overall scoring and score bands that are used for each test. For example, the TOEFL iBT uses the overall scoring of 120 to 0 points.
All the four test sections in the TOEFL iBT (reading, listening, speaking, and writing) are given a raw score from 0 to 30 each.
On the other hand, the TOEFL Essentials uses the score bands between 0 to 12 points in their scoring system.
Moreover, both the final test scores of the TOEFL iBT and TOEFL Essentials can be interpreted using the CEFR language proficiency scale.
We have provided a table below showing the TOEFL iBT and TOEFL Essentials test scores with their corresponding CEFR scale levels. Note that not all the test sections in this TOEFL language exam are scored using the AI scoring network.
For example, the writing and speaking test sections of the TOEFL iBT and TOEFL Essentials are scored by highly-trained TOEFL professional raters.
However, they still follow a strict scoring system for these test sections to deliver quality and accurate assessment of your test scores.
Generally, the TOEFL exam does not set a passing score for each test section, either a failing one. It means that the test results assess your language proficiency level.
Only the academic institutions provide a minimum TOEFL test score requirement for their admission that you need to achieve to get into the university or college that you are applying for.
We have provided a table showing the scoring scale of the TOEFL iBT vs. TOEFL Essentials scoring scale to show you the difference between the two language exams.
A comparison table shows the scoring scale between TOEFL iBT and TOEFL Essentials.
| TOEFL iBT Test Scores | CEFR Proficiency Level | TOEFL Essentials |
|---|---|---|
| 120 to 114 | C2 Proficient Level | 12 |
| 113 to 95 | C1 Advanced Proficiency Level | 11.5 to 10 |
| 94 to 72 | B2 Upper-Intermediate Proficiency Level | 9.5 to 8 |
| 71 to 42 | B1 Intermediate Proficiency Level | 7.5 to 5 |
| N/A | A2 Elementary Proficiency Level | 4.5 to 3 |
| N/A | A1 Beginner Proficiency Level | 2.5 to 2 |
| N/A | Below A1 | 1.5 to 1 |
Test Requirements: TOEFL iBT vs. TOEFL Essentials
Since the TOEFL Essentials is the shorter version of the TOEFL iBT, they have the same test requirements.
And also, there is no age requirement for these language exams; however, the ETS recommends that test-takers must at least be 17 years above.
Both the TOEFL iBT and TOEFL Essentials test-takers must register for the exam on their official website.
And also have the same required documents, which are a valid passport, any national ID with name, photograph, signature, and other required documents.
Here is a comparison table of the TOEFL iBT and TOEFL Essentials Test Requirements.
| Test Eligibility Requirements | TOEFL iBT | TOEFL Essentials |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Age Requirement | No age requirement for test-takers. However, the ETS recommends that students ages 17; or 11th grade take the TOEFL exam. A parent or guardian is needed for those test-takers below 15 years old and younger. A parent consent letter is also required. | No age requirement for test-takers. However, the ETS recommends ages 17 or 11th grade to take the TOEFL exam. A parent or guardian is needed for those test-takers below 15 years old and younger. A parent consent letter is also required. |
| Which Professions take the test? | Any Profession | Any Profession |
| Documents Required | A valid passport Any national ID with name, photograph, and signature Any Government-issued driver’s license Any national/state/province identity card | A valid passport Any national ID with name, photograph, and signature Any Government-issued driver’s license Any national/state/province identity card |
| How/Where to Register? | You can register for the TOEFL iBT by walk-in at their official testing centers. Or you may register online through their official website by creating an ETS account. You may also register by phone and by mail. | You can register for the TOEFL Essentials by registering online through their official website by creating an ETS account. |
Test Recognition: TOEFL iBT vs. TOEFL Essentials
The TOEFL exam is highly recognized and accepted by most universities and colleges across different countries around the globe.
Since the TOEFL iBT and TOEFL Essentials belong to the TOEFL exams it is widely used and acknowledged by most educational institutions.
For example, the TOEFL iBT and TOEFL Essentials tests are trusted and preferred by the top and prominent academic institutions worldwide including the famous Ivy League Schools.
It is because of the high academic context and university-level English language used in these language exams it is suited for these institutions.
In addition, most of the universities and colleges in the United States highly accept and acknowledged the TOEFL iBT and TOEFL Essentials exams. Aside from that, more countries now recognize these two exams under the TOEFL including Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, the United States, and other English-speaking countries.
The TOEFL iBT and TOEFL Essentials exams are also both acknowledged and trusted by government agencies such as migration offices, multinational companies, and other private sectors.
And also, these two TOEFL exams both consistently deliver a reliable and accurate assessment of your language skills.
Thus, providing a valid English language proficiency certification for all its test-takers.
Which Is Easier: TOEFL iBT or TOEFL Essentials?
The TOEFL iBT is fully academic in terms of its exam context while the TOEFL Essentials contains 50% academic English and 50% general English.
Thus, making the TOEFL Essentials way easier than the TOEFL iBT since it assesses your abilities in using the English language at a higher level.
Moreover, the TOEFL iBT mainly focuses on your academic-based English language abilities while the TOEFL Essentials has a Personal Video Statement, which is an additional test section of the exam.
It is where you are given a chance to share your opinions, express yourself, and show your personality.
The TOEFL Essentials is also a multiadaptive type of exam which means that it adjusts to your proficiency level showcasing your English-language abilities.
In comparison, the TOEFL iBT focuses on your academic and higher level of English skills.
And if you prefer a short language proficiency exam, you can choose the TOEFL Essentials which only lasts for only one hour and a half. While the TOEFL iBT takes about three hours approximately.
Also, you can take the TOEFL Essentials at home given you meet all the requirements.
However, the TOEFL iBT should be taken at a test center. Both exams are delivered via the internet, so it is also convenient in some ways.
Note that these language exams under the TOEFL deliver high-quality and reliable language assessments.
You can either take the TOEFL iBT or TOEFL Essentials. Whichever you find more convenient and fits your preference, you will still receive a trusted English language proficiency certification.
Comparison Table: Summary of Exam Features between TOEFL iBT vs. TOEFL Essentials
These two TOEFL exams are quite similar in some exam features and also differ in some areas such as in the number of test questions, pricing, exam delivery, and more.
However, these two language exams still provide a quality and accurate assessment of your language abilities.
Generally, the TOEFL Essentials is a shorter version of the TOEFL iBT thus making it more convenient compared to the latter. It only takes about an hour and a half for you to finish the TOEFL Essentials.
Nevertheless, the TOEFL Essentials also test the four primary English skills in writing, reading, listening, and speaking. It also has an additional test section (Personal Video Statement) wherein it is not scored that allows you to talk and share your opinions and ideas.
Aside from that, the TOEFL Essentials is not fully academic in terms of exam contents, it also includes general English contexts in its exam.
Unlike, the TOEFL iBT which only focuses on the English academic and university level language abilities.
In addition, you will still receive the same high-quality standard and valid test results of your language proficiency level whether you take the TOEFL iBT or the TOEFL Essentials.
You can check the summary table below for more details on the comparison of the two language proficiency exams.
Here is a comprehensive comparison table for the TOEFL iBT and Essentials Overall Exam Features.
| Exam Key Features | TOEFL iBT | TOEFL Essentials |
|---|---|---|
| Test Fee | Standard Exam Fee: USD 185 Fees vary per Country Worldwide | Standard Exam Fee: USD 100 to USD 120 Fees vary per Country Worldwide |
| Age Requirement for Test Takers | No age requirement | No age requirement |
| Test Registration Process | You can register for the TOEFL iBT by walk-in at their official testing centers. Or you may register online through their official website by creating an ETS account. You may also register by phone and by mail. | You can register for the TOEFL Essentials by registering online through their official website by creating an ETS account. |
| Test Registration Requirements | A valid passport Any national ID with name, photo, and signature Any Government-issued driver’s license Any national/state/province identity card | A valid passport Any national ID with name, photo, and signature Any Government-issued driver’s license Any national/state/province identity card |
| Exam Frequency | More than 60 Prescheduled Test Dates | With available test schedule 1 to 3 days per week |
| Number of Testing Centers Worldwide | 4500 Testing Centers Worldwide | No need to go to Testing Centers The exam is accessible and can be taken using computers at home |
| Number of Countries Where Both Exams are Available | Accepted in 190 Countries Worldwide | Accepted in 17 Countries Worldwide |
| Test Scores Validity | Two years | Two years |
| Overall Scoring Scale Points | Scoring Scale of 120 to 1 point | Band Score of 12 to 0 point |
| Scoring System | Combination of Centralized Scoring Network and AI Scoring System Professional TOEFL raters score some test sections | Combination of Centralized Scoring Network and AI Scoring System Professional TOEFL raters score some test sections |
| CEFR Scale Equivalent | Yes | Yes |
| Test Results Availability | Approximately six to ten days | Approximately six days |
| English Skills that are assessed / Test Structure | Four Test Sections/Structure: Reading Writing Listening Speaking | Four Test Sections/Structure: Reading Writing Listening Speaking Additional Test Section: Personal Video Statement(not scored) |
| Test Content | 100% Academic English Based Contexts | 50% Academic English Based Contexts 50% General English Based Contexts |
| Test Duration | 3 to 4 Hours with additional 30 minutes check-in period | 1 hour and 30 minutes |
| Test Version | None | None |
| Test Delivery Mode | Internet-based Test | Internet-based Test |
| Accepted By Educational Institutions | Yes | Yes |
| Accepted By Government Offices/Migration | Yes | Yes |
| Accepted By Multinational Companies | Yes | Yes |
Additional FAQs — TOEFL Essentials vs TOEFL iBT
Do Universities Accept TOEFL Essentials?
Those universities and colleges in various countries that already recognize and accept the TOEFL exams, such as the TOEFL iBT, also acknowledge the TOEFL Essentials.
And because of the pandemic, many language exams schedules were canceled and put on hold, and many test-takers prefer the TOEFL Essentials Exam since it can be taken at home.
It is also very accessible and has the same standard and quality as any other TOEFL exam.
Which is More Difficult: TOEFL iBT vs. Essentials?
Generally, the TOEFL iBT and TOEFL Essentials measure the English language abilities of an individual.
And the TOEFL iBT is widely known for its high academic context and university level of language used.
On the other hand, the TOEFL Essentials exam contents have 50% academic-based contexts and 50% general English contexts.
If we compare these two exams, the TOEFL iBT is more difficult because it is purely academic and measures one’s language abilities at a high level.
Who is TOEFL Essentials Ideal for?
The TOEFL Essentials is ideal for those who want to take a budget-friendly standardized language proficiency exam in a limited time.
The test only lasts for about 90 minutes and only costs around USD 100 to USD 120, it is perfect for students who want to assess their language proficiency level.
It measures not just one’s academic language abilities but also in general. And also, this exam is widely accepted by universities and colleges worldwide. So you do not have to worry about whether institutions accept it.
The TOEFL Essentials is as reliable and accurate as any other TOEFL exams available.
