What is the difference between TOEFL iBT & TOEFL Essentials
Updated on 11 September, 2023
Mrinal Mandal
Study Abroad Expert
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What is the difference between TOEFL iBT & TOEFL Essentials
Stuck on the TOEFL iBT vs. TOEFL Essentials debate? Both tests have a unique pattern and structure, which make them different from each other. The TOEFL Essentials examination is more affordable and convenient for those preferring smaller tasks, as compared to the more intensive TOEFL iBT examination.
Table of Contents
TOEFL iBT Vs. TOEFL Essentials: Differences
| Parameters | TOEFL iBT | TOEFL Essentials |
| What does the test measure/evaluate? | Is a direct and extensive evaluation of the academic, communicative language prowess of aspirants | Foundational English language proficiency components, indicating how aspirants will operate in both academic and non-academic settings |
| Who is the desired candidate? | Those looking to stand out with their English language abilities in academic environments | Those seeking a quality test which is more engaging and convenient |
| Domain of Language | 100% academic English | 50% academic and 50% general English |
| Test Content | There are chosen tasks which indicate what students are required to excel at in academic environments, integrating all major language abilities | Helps in tracking proficiency as per the abilities of aspirants, based on multi-stage adaptive methodologies |
| Focus | Depth and intensity with longer and more interconnected tasks | Shorter and quicker tasks for a more engaging experience |
| Test Length | Around 3 hours | Approximately 1.5 hours |
| Test Format | Four Sections- Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking | Four Sections- Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking and a five-minute personal video statement (which is not scored) |
| Test Delivery | Taken at home (TOEFL iBT Home Edition) or at a test center | Home-based with the same security and platform technologies as the iBT Home Edition |
Exam pattern for TOEFL iBT & TOEFL Essentials
Here is a brief look at the examination pattern for both these tests:
| Section Name | TOEFL iBT | TOEFL Essentials |
| Reading | 30-40 questions taking 54-72 minutes | 30-45 questions taking 22-33 minutes |
| Listening | 18-24 questions taking 41-57 minutes | 30-45 minutes taking 21-34 minutes |
| Break | Does not apply | There is a 10-minute break |
| Speaking | four questions in 17 minutes | 3 tasks including 19 responses in total. This takes 13 minutes |
| Writing | two questions in 50 minutes | 15-19 questions with two added tasks. This takes 24-30 minutes |
| Personal Task | Does not apply | One 5-minute video |
Exam Fee
The TOEFL iBT requires $185-270 for every test, based on where you take the examination. The TOEFL Essentials fees are around $100-120 across most nations.
Scoring
The scoring scale for TOEFL Essentials is between the bands of 1-12 for every examination section. The overall score is calculated as the average of all sections, rounded off to the closest half-band.
For the TOEFL iBT, the score is given on a 1-120 scale. Every section has a scale of 1-30. The overall score is the sum total of all four section scores. There is no rounding off.
An equivalent table is given below for your perusal:
CEFR level |
TOEFL Essentials |
TOEFL iBT |
| C2 | 12 |
114–120 |
| C1 | 10–11.5 |
95–113 |
| B2 | 8–9.5 |
72–94 |
| B1 | 5–7.5 |
42–71 |
| A2 | 3–4.5 |
N/A |
| A1 | 2–2.5 |
N/A |
| Below A1 | 1–1.5 |
N/A |
Validity
The TOEFL Essentials and TOEFL iBT both have the validity period of two years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, TOEFL iBT or TOEFL Essentials?
Both are different types of examinations. Those more into the academic scenario seeking something comprehensive that intensely evaluates their abilities will go for the TOEFL iBT. Those looking for a quality examination that integrates abilities in general and academic English environments in a shorter and more affordable package may choose TOEFL Essentials.
Do universities accept TOEFL Essentials?
According to ETS reports, TOEFL Essentials is already being accepted by several institutions which already take the TOEFL iBT scores. ETS reports indicate more than 90% of surveyed USA, UK, and Canadian universities are likely to accept TOEFL Essentials test scores for their admissions.
What is a good score in TOEFL essentials?
A good score corresponds to 114-120 in the TOEFL iBT, 12 in TOEFL Essentials, or the highest score. Other good scores include 10-11.5 and 8-9.5 in TOEFL Essentials, equivalent to 95-113 and 72-94 in the TOEFL iBT, respectively.
Which is easier, the TOEFL iBT or the IELTS?
Many test-takers feel that the IELTS is comparatively easier since the TOEFL iBT has a longer essay to write, while it has a tougher reading section than the IELTS examination.
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