TOEFL iBT Home Edition Test Complete Guide

The TOEFL iBT Home Edition allows many test-takers to take the TOEFL Exam in their homes, especially now that some of the testing centers in various countries are closed due to COVID-19. 

This language proficiency exam is widely used and highly trusted by most countries such as the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, and more. It is also used to assess the English language skills of an individual if it is appropriate for a university-level admission. 

More and more test-takers now prefer the TOEFL iBT Home Edition Test because of its convenience and accessibility while giving you trusted and legit language proficiency certification. 

What is the TOEFL iBT Home Edition Test?

TOEFL iBT Home Edition is under the TOEFL iBT, wherein you can take this exam in the comfort of your home. The ETS created this version of the TOEFL iBT to make the exam more accessible to test-takers worldwide, especially during this pandemic. 

This exam is also internet-based and contains the same test questions, sections, structure, and duration as the TOEFL iBT. It also tests all four English language skills, including writing, listening, reading, and speaking. 

In addition, this test is highly accepted and recognized by prominent educational institutions and other organizations worldwide except in Iran. 

Moreover, it also provides a reliable assessment of one’s preparedness to use the English language in different settings, especially in the academic environment, which is needed in the higher education level of coursework. 

TOEFL iBT vs. Home Edition Test: Exam Comparison

The TOEFL iBT is the internet-based test format of the TOEFL exam. And the TOEFL iBT Home Edition is under this exam in which you can take this test using the computer at your home. 

There is no significant difference for both the TOEFL iBT and the Home Edition exam. Both of them contain the same exam format, test contents, and test duration. 

Consequently, these two language proficiency tests measure primary English language skills such as reading, writing, listening, and speaking. It also assesses one’s ability to use and comprehend the English language at the university level.

The TOEFL iBT and Home Edition are highly trusted and widely used in most educational institutions and organizations. It features integrated skills and generates a better assessment of the test-takers English language skills. 

Both exams focus on the individuals using the English language in communication and understanding various contexts. These are primarily encountered in educational institutions where the English language is the medium of instruction.

How Much is the TOEFL iBT Home Edition?

The exam fee for the TOEFL iBT Home Edition is comparable to the TOEFL iBT since it is under it.

Where is the TOEFL iBT Home Edition Accepted?

Since TOEFL iBT Home Edition is under the TOEFL iBT exam, it is trusted and accepted by thousands of educational institutions worldwide are trusted and accepted. 

Some universities and colleges do not specifically list the TOEFL iBT Home Edition as one of the language proficiency exams they accept because it is already under the TOEFL iBT exam. 

However, you should contact them to know if they accept the TOEFL iBT Home Edition or not. Below are some of the universities and colleges in different countries that accept this exam. 

Which Universities and Colleges in the United Kingdom Accept the TOEFL iBT Home Edition?

1. University of Westminster
2. University of Brighton
3. University of Portsmouth
4. University of Plymouth
5. Birkbeck University
6. Birmingham City of University
7. London School of Economics and Political Science
8. Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama
9. Royal Holloway University of London
10. The University of London – Centre for Languages & International Education
11.  Robert Gordon University
12. Warwick University

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Which Universities and Colleges in the United States Accept the TOEFL iBT Home Edition?

1. University of Alabama
2. University of Arizona
3. University of California
4. University of Delaware
5. University of Georgia
6. University of North Georgia
7. The University of Northern Iowa University
8. University of Michigan
9. University of Mississippi
10. University of Montana
11. University of South Carolina
12. University of Oklahoma
13. University of Wisconsin
14. University of Washington
15. Yale University
16. Dalton State University
17. John Hopkins University
18. Boston College
19. Harvard University
20. Missouri State University
21. Kansas State University
22. Standford University
23. Columbia College
24. Sonoma State University
25. Fort Hays State University
26. Missouri State University
27. Miami University
28. Northwestern University
29. Oregon State University
30. Ohio State University
31. Washington State University
32. West Virginia University
33. Princeton University
34. Dartmouth College
35. Fordham University
36. New York University
37. East Carolina University
38. Seattle Central College
39. West Virginia University
40. Saint Martin’s University

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Which Universities and Colleges in Australia Accept the TOEFL iBT Home Edition?

1. University of Canberra
2. University of New South Wales
3. University of Sydney
4. University of Melbourne 
5. University of Southern Queensland
6. University of Western Australia
7. Wollongong University
8. Murdoch University 
9. Curtin University
10. Charles Darwin University
11. Griffith University
12. Edith Cowan University
13. Notre Dame University
14. Federation University
15. Australian National University

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Which Universities and Colleges in Canada Accept the TOEFL iBT Home Edition?

1. Carleton University
2. Georgian College
3. Ontario Institute of Technology
4. Schulich School of Business at York
5. Trent University
6. University of Ottawa
7. Sheridan College
8. McGill University
9. Concordia University
10. University of Saskatchewan
11. University of Toronto
12. Wilfrid Laurier University
13. Ontario College of Arts & Design 
14. Seneca College
15. University of Montreal
16. University of Waterloo

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Which Universities and Colleges in Japan Accept the TOEFL iBT Home Edition?

1. Akita International University
2. Hokkaido University
3. Kyoto University of Advanced Science
4. Meiji University
5. Osaka Dental University
6. Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University
7. Shibaura Institute of Technology
8. SOKENDAI – The Graduate University of Advanced Studies
9. Tohoku University, Graduate School of Medicine
10. Tsukuba University
11. University of Tokyo
12. Yokohama City University

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Which Universities and Colleges in New Zealand Accept the TOEFL iBT Home Edition?

1. Auckland University of Technology
2. University of Canterbury
3. University of Otago
4. University of Waikato
5. Victoria University of Wellington
6. Massey University
7. Nord University
8. Victoria University of Wellington
9. University of Waikato
10. Fjelhaug International University College

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TOEFL iBT Home Edition Test Exam Format

1. Reading Section

The reading section contains three to four 700-words passages. You are tasked to read the passages presented and answer the 30 to 40 test questions that follow after each selection.  

It assesses your ability to read and comprehend complex structured passages, usually used in an academic setting. 

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2. Listening Section 

In the listening section, you are tasked to listen to various lectures and conversations presented. These audio clips usually last for 3 to 5 minutes. There are also questions that you need to answer regarding the audio presented. 

Note that these audio clips will only be played once and cannot be repeated. Moreover, the speakers have different accents, so it is best to listen intently to these audios, and the test allows note-taking. 

Consequently, it assesses your ability to comprehend and synthesize information about these lectures and conversations in English. 

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3. Speaking Section

The speaking section contains two parts, independent speaking, and integrated speaking. The first task for part one is to discuss two familiar topics about real-life situations for a given period. 

And for the second part involves tasks wherein you need to listen to an audio clip and read a selection. The audio clip in this test section has speakers with different accents, and you need to answer the following questions. 

Moreover, it assesses one’s ability to speak the English language effectively in an academic setting. 

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4. Writing Section

In this section, you are tasked to write two essays that must contain examples regarding the topic. And also, you are expected to write it in a concise and well-organized manner and finish it within the given timeframe. 

This section assesses one’s ability to write high-quality essays in English at a university level.

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Scoring for TOEFL iBT Home Edition Test Format

The TOEFL iBT Home Edition scoring is done using their centralized scoring network. All test sections are given a score range between 0 to 30 each.  

Moreover, automated AI scoring and professional TOEFL test raters score both the writing and speaking test sections. And also, a computer scores the listening and reading test sections. 

Thus, you can assure an accurate TOEFL test score without the bias of a human rater. You will receive your score 6 to 8 days after your scheduled test date, and it is valid for two years. 

TOEFL iBT Home Edition Equipment and Exam Area Requirements

Before taking the exam, you need to verify your computer and designated testing area in your home. If you failed to meet the equipment and eligibility requirements set by TOEFL, you could not take the test, and there will be no refund for your payment. 

Below are the requirements for the home equipment and exam area for the Home Edition. 

Exam Area Requirements

• While taking the test, it is required that you are the only one in the room.

• You are not allowed to take the exam in any public place. 

• It is recommended to close all doors in your exam area before taking the exam. 

• Your computer table should be positioned where the door of the room is visible to the proctor. 

• It is also needed that your computer table must be clear from unnecessary items. 

• Food and drinks are not allowed during the test. 

What to Expect With TOEFL iBT Home Edition?

Before taking the TOEFL iBT Home Edition, you need some preparation to do in your home. The ETS also provides some home testing procedures that you need to do before taking the test, and it will ensure a smooth and hassle-free test experience. 

Before Your Test Session

The first thing you need to do is to prepare your testing area. Next, you need to make sure your computer and testing area is conducive for a home-based exam, and all the other things you need are readily available. 

You also need to run the ProctorU® Equipment Check in your computer before your scheduled test time. It will help fix any issues with your computer. Note that you also need to clear and close all the browsers and unnecessary applications for the test. 

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Prepare All Test and Exam Area Requirements

You also need to prepare all the test requirements before the start of your test schedule. Test requirements include passport or any other acceptable ID, cell phone, or handheld mirror for check-in purposes. 

In addition, you also need to make sure your exam area or room is well-lit and quiet. Your exam table should be clear of clutter, and your table should be positioned wherein the door is visible in your camera. 

Note that you should be appropriately dressed, showing your ears and face clearly to the exam proctor. Face masks and wearing jewelry should be avoided. 

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Check-In Process for the TOEFL iBT Home Edition Exam 

The check-in for the exam only takes about 20 minutes. In addition, you should click the start test link from the confirmation email at your scheduled time. However, if you fail to check in within that timeframe, your exam will be canceled without a refund. 

After clicking the start test link, you need to select the start session. And follow the authentication steps given, and your ID name should match the name in your ETS Account. 

In this part, the exam proctor will present the exam rules and check your computer screen for monitoring using a handheld mirror or cell phone. The exam proctor will also ask you to show the view of your exam room. After, the exam proctor will launch the ETS Browser for you to log in. 

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During the TOEFL iBT Home Edition Exam 

It is recommended to follow the rules when taking the exam, and if you violate, your test will be automatically be canceled, and no refund for your exam fee.

Here are some of the rules you should take note of. 

• Using unauthorized materials while taking the test or during the 10-minute break, such as mobile devices, prewritten notes, using textbooks, and other prohibited materials.

• Using recording devices is not allowed.

• No other computer application should be open while taking the test, such as Skype, Zoom, MS Teams, and the likes. 

• You are not allowed to have any other conversations aside from the exam proctor.

• Using headsets is not allowed.

• Unscheduled breaks are not allowed, and you must also strictly follow the 10-minute break given and return on time. 

• While taking the test, the exam proctor will randomly monitor your computer screen and your exam area via your webcam to ensure that you are following all the rules. 

• It is recommended that you are always visible on the camera while taking the test. 

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Troubleshooting Technical Issues

• You need to pass the ProctorU Equipment Check before starting your exam and resolve all the issues that may arise. Failure to do so will lead to the cancelation of your exam. 

• To avoid technical issues, you need to do a test run a day before on your computer using the equipment check provided by the TOEFL. In this way, you can have enough time to resolve any issues regarding your equipment if, in any case, there are. 

• If you encounter technical difficulties before your test starts, you should immediately inform ProctorU via live chat for assistance.  

• While you are interrupted by technical difficulty while taking the test, you should inform your exam proctor to help you with these technical interruptions. 

• If you lose your internet connection in the middle of your exam, you will be reconnected instantly to your exam proctor once your connection is restored. 

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Additional FAQs on the TOEFL iBT Home Edition