What Subjects and Sections Are Included in the TOEFL 2025 Exam?
Planning to study at top universities in the USA, Canada, UK, or Europe in 2025? For Indian students, a strong TOEFL score is often the gateway to globally ranked colleges and scholarships. Knowing the latest TOEFL syllabus is essential for successful application and visa processing.
TOEFL Syllabus 2025: Section-Wise Exam Structure and Pattern
Exam Highlights – 2025
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Conducting Body | ETS |
| Exam Modes | Internet-based Test (iBT), Paper Edition (select locations) |
| Duration | 1 hour 56 minutes (approx. 116 mins) |
| Number of Sections | 4 (Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing) |
| Score Range | 0–120 (30 per section) |
| Validity | 2 years |
| Accepted In | USA, Canada, UK, Australia, Germany, Europe & more |
The TOEFL iBT is the most widely accepted format in 2025, with major updates ensuring shorter test duration, integrated tasks, and faster results. TOEFL is accepted by over 13,000 universities globally.
What is the Updated TOEFL Syllabus for 2025?
- Reading: Academic texts and comprehension
- Listening: Lectures, discussions, and conversations
- Speaking: 4 tasks based on real-life situations
- Writing: 2 academic writing tasks
- New in 2025: Shorter test, integrated tasks, faster scoring
Candidates should prepare for academic and campus-based topics, matching how universities assess English communication and critical thinking skills for international students.
TOEFL 2025: Detailed Section-Wise Syllabus
| Section | Number of Questions/Tasks | Duration | Key Skills Assessed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reading | 20 questions (2 passages) | 35 minutes | Reading academic texts, vocabulary, comprehension, inference |
| Listening | 28 questions (3 lectures, 2 conversations) | 36 minutes | Understanding lectures/discussions (American, British, other accents), connecting information |
| Speaking | 4 tasks | 16 minutes | Expressing personal and academic opinions, summarising, integrated tasks |
| Writing | 2 tasks | 29 minutes | Academic essay writing, summarising, organizing ideas |
Each section is designed to test how well candidates can use English in typical university scenarios. This syllabus remains consistent across iBT and Paper Edition, with only the test delivery method varying.
Section-Wise TOEFL Syllabus 2025 Details
- Reading: Two passages (~700 words each). Test takers must answer 10 questions per passage. Questions cover vocabulary, summarization, inference, identifying author’s purpose, and understanding complex grammatical structures.
- Listening: Three lectures (with discussions), each 3-5 minutes. Two conversations of about 3 minutes each, covering topics like science, business, campus life. Accents range from North America, UK, Australia, and NZ.
- Speaking: Four speaking tasks. Includes one independent (personal opinion), three integrated (combining listening/reading/speaking). Tasks simulate class discussions, campus situations, or academic topics.
- Writing: Two tasks: (1) Integrated—summarise, compare reading and listening inputs (20 mins), (2) Independent—essay on a familiar topic or academic discussion (10 mins). Measured for clarity, cohesion, grammar, and logic.
For more on how TOEFL compares to similar exams, check out the IELTS Exam Guide and PTE Exam Pattern Overview.
Top Global Universities Accepting TOEFL (2025)
| Country | Popular Universities | Minimum TOEFL iBT Score |
|---|---|---|
| USA |
Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Stanford University, Harvard University |
90–110 |
| Canada |
University of Toronto, University of British Columbia, McGill University |
85–100 |
| UK |
University of Oxford, Imperial College London, University of Manchester |
88–100 |
| Germany |
Technical University Munich, RWTH Aachen, Heidelberg University |
80–100 |
| Australia |
University of Melbourne, University of Sydney University of Queensland |
79–100 |
Score requirements vary by course and university, so verify on each university’s site before applying. TOEFL is preferred for MS, MBA, STEM, and research programs.
TOEFL Eligibility and Test Day Requirements (2025)
- No minimum educational qualification required; recommended for Grade 12 pass or bachelor’s students
- Valid passport for identification during test registration and exam day
- Minimum age: 16 years (suggested for undergraduate admission abroad)
- Multiple attempts allowed (3 days between attempts); best for students applying for Fall 2025 and beyond
The exam is open to students from any academic background. See also: GRE Syllabus for 2025 if you are considering graduate programs.
TOEFL Exam Fees & Scholarships (2025 India & Globally)
- India Exam Fee: $205 (approx. ₹17,000 – ₹18,500, depending on currency rates)
- Fee is consistent across iBT and Paper Edition in most countries
- Additional costs: Score reporting (per university), rescheduling, late registration
- Some scholarships for international students and prep funding require valid TOEFL scores
- Top TOEFL scholarships include Fulbright-Nehru, Tata, JN Tata Endowment, and individual university bursaries
Some Indian organizations offer TOEFL preparation support. Review eligibility on official Fellowship/Scholarship portals or university websites for 2025 admissions.
TOEFL and Student Visa: 2025 Policy Updates
- Valid TOEFL score is mandatory for US F-1 visa, Canadian study permit, UK Tier-4 (select universities), Australia, and several EU countries
- Post-study work visa eligibility (USA, Canada, UK, Australia) often depends on university admission, English score, and field of study
- Score quickly available (4–8 days) for use in visa and application processes
Submit your scores early to avoid last-minute visa delays. Check official embassy websites for country-specific visa policies.
How TOEFL Supports Career & Post-Study Work Opportunities
A high TOEFL score not only boosts your admission odds, but also helps with employability and internships in top destinations. Employers value English proficiency in research, business, healthcare, and technology domains.
- Many countries (Canada, UK, Australia, Ireland) allow 1–3 years’ post-study work for graduates from TOEFL-accepting institutions
- Popular job roles for Indian graduates: Technology, Consulting, Healthcare, Research, Management
- TOEFL score recognized by immigration programs in several countries (e.g. skilled migration)
For more on career and earning potential, read: Top 10 Highest Paying Jobs After Studying Abroad
In summary, understanding the current TOEFL syllabus and exam pattern is crucial for Indian students planning global education in 2025. Focus on all four sections—Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing. Strong performance maximizes your admission, scholarship, and visa options in top study destinations worldwide.
FAQs on Complete Guide to the 2025 TOEFL Exam Structure and Syllabus
1. Is TOEFL exam difficult to pass?
The TOEFL exam is considered moderately difficult, mainly testing your ability to use and understand academic English. With regular practice in reading, listening, speaking, and writing and familiarity with the test format, most students can achieve a good score. Success depends on your current English proficiency and preparation level.
2. What is the syllabus of TOEFL?
The TOEFL syllabus includes four sections: Reading (comprehension of academic texts), Listening (understanding lectures and conversations), Speaking (responding to questions and expressing opinions), and Writing (writing essays and short responses). The content evaluates your academic and communication skills relevant to studying in an English-speaking environment.
3. What are the subjects covered in the TOEFL exam?
The TOEFL exam does not have traditional subjects but assesses your skills in English reading, listening, speaking, and writing, often using academic content such as social sciences, natural sciences, and humanities to check understanding and expression in different contexts.
4. What is the curriculum of TOEFL?
The TOEFL curriculum broadly covers:
- Reading: Analysis of academic texts
- Listening: Comprehension of lectures and conversations
- Speaking: Expressing ideas, opinions, and summarizing information
- Writing: Integrated and independent writing tasks
5. What does the TOEFL exam consist of?
The TOEFL exam consists of four main sections: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing. Each section measures a different aspect of English language proficiency. The test lasts around 2 hours and is entirely computer-based for the iBT format.
6. Where can I download the TOEFL syllabus pdf for 2024 or 2025?
The official and updated TOEFL syllabus PDF for 2024 or 2025 is available for download from the ETS TOEFL Official Website (www.ets.org/toefl). Always refer to the latest syllabus to prepare for the most current exam pattern.
7. What is the TOEFL iBT syllabus?
The TOEFL iBT syllabus includes: Reading (passages & questions), Listening (lectures & conversations), Speaking (personal experience and integrated tasks), and Writing (integrated and independent essays). All questions are based on academic and practical university contexts.
8. What is the syllabus for TOEFL ITP and TOEFL Junior?
The TOEFL ITP syllabus covers Listening Comprehension, Structure and Written Expression, and Reading Comprehension. TOEFL Junior is tailored for younger students and includes Listening Comprehension, Language Form & Meaning, and Reading Comprehension.
9. What is the TOEFL eligibility criteria?
There are no strict academic eligibility criteria for the TOEFL exam. It is open to anyone who wants to study or work in an English-speaking environment, but candidates should have at least a high school education level to understand the test content.
10. What is the total marks and duration of the TOEFL exam?
The TOEFL iBT is scored out of 120 marks (30 marks per section). The total test duration is approximately 1 hour 56 minutes. Each section is individually timed: Reading (16-22 min), Listening (35 min), Speaking (16 min), and Writing (29 min).
11. What is the TOEFL exam fee in India?
The TOEFL exam fee in India is around USD 195, but this may vary by location and exchange rates. Check the official ETS TOEFL registration portal for the most current fee before booking your exam.
12. Are there sample papers or free TOEFL practice tests available?
Yes, you can access free TOEFL sample papers and official practice tests on the ETS TOEFL website as well as on educational platforms like Vedantu. Practicing with these resources helps familiarize you with the question pattern and difficulty level.
