TOEFL Exam Eligibility 2024: Know Certain Criteria & Age Limit

When you’re thinking about studying and working in another country, your language skills matter a lot. That’s where the TOEFL exam comes in. It’s like a key that opens doors for your academic journey and is organised by a group called ETS. 

The TOEFL exam is one of the most important English proficiency language tests, evaluating your abilities in Reading, Speaking, Listening, and Writing. Surprisingly, the ETS hasn’t set any strict eligibility requirements to appear for the TOEFL exam.

And guess what? Yet more than 13,000 institutions worldwide in over 200 countries really care about your TOEFL results in popular study-abroad countries such as the US, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and more. If you do well in the TOEFL exam, you’ll have a clear pathway to some of the best universities around the world, particularly in a country where English is the primary language of instruction.

Excel in IELTS with India’s Top Online Coaching

Leap has helped more than 1 Lakh students achieve 7+ IELTS band.

Request a Callback

In this blog, we’re here to share all the important details about TOEFL Exam Eligibility in 2024. We’ll tell you about the age limit and other things you need to know to be eligible for the test.

Why Students Should Take the TOEFL Exam?

If you’re eyeing admission into English-speaking universities, you’re likely aware of their specific criteria for international students. A fundamental requirement is showcasing your English proficiency during the application process. This is where the TOEFL exam steps in – a key component in securing your spot at a foreign university. 

Here’s why it’s a smart move:

1. Global Recognition: The TOEFL exam enjoys worldwide acclaim as a preferred English language proficiency assessment.
2. Long-lasting Validity: Your TOEFL exam score remains valid for a generous span of 2 years.
3. Minimal Eligibility Criteria: Meeting the eligibility for TOEFL exam participation is uncomplicated and undemanding.
4. Multiple Attempts: You have the liberty to take the test multiple times, refining your performance each time.
   
   Read more about What is TOEFL exam used for? Best uses explained 2024

TOEFL Exam Eligibility

Before you take the TOEFL exam, it’s crucial to understand the ins and outs of TOEFL Exam Eligibility. In this section, we’ll walk you through the essential criteria and requirements that determine your eligibility to take this English language assessment.

Whether you’re a student eager to explore new educational opportunities or a professional seeking to enhance your career prospects abroad, mastering the TOEFL eligibility guidelines is your first step toward success. Let’s delve into the details here:

Excel in IELTS with India’s Top Online Coaching

Leap has helped more than 1 Lakh students achieve 7+ IELTS band.

Request a Callback

TOEFL Exam Eligibility: Age Limit

According to ETS, the TOEFL exam holds no age restrictions. This means that if you’re aiming to pursue higher education abroad, regardless of your age, you have the opportunity to prepare for and take this exam. However, there is a general requirement that you should be 18 years or older. If you are younger than 18 years , then your should come along with parents at test centre.

Whether you’re a fresh graduate or someone seeking advanced studies, the doors to your global academic journey are wide open.

If you have passed your 10+2 level of education from a recognised institution, you can apply for the TOEFL exam.

Note: Some institution or countries may have their own age criteria for admission. It’s advisable to check the specific requirements of your desired institution.

TOEFL Exam Eligibility: Qualification Requirements

ETS doesn’t require specific academic qualifications for Indian students to take the TOEFL exam.

While there’s no fixed rule, many foreign universities typically prefer students with at least a 10+2 educational background. When you combine this minimum qualification with a TOEFL certificate, your chances of gaining admission are more.

Explore all countries

Study in Canada

Study in USA

Study in UK

Study in Australia

Study in Ireland

Study in Germany

TOEFL Exam Eligibility Score for Top Universities

TOEFL exam is taken by those students whose first language is not English. So, it becomes important to understand the language requirements of the particular institution you want to apply for. Additionally, the TOEFL exam scores may be required for obtaining a student visa.

Hence, you need to know the score requirements of your preferred university to make sure you meet the eligibility criteria. Generally, a score of 80 -95 is considered good for admission to top universities and colleges.

As we mentioned, there are no specific eligibility guidelines set by the exam conducting authority ETS, but there are some score requirements which may differ depending on the university. 

Here’s the list of top universities, along with their score requirements for the TOEFL exam:

Please note that not all universities accept TOEFL exam scores. It‘s always best to check with your preferred university before applying.

Read more about Which Country Accept TOEFL Exam Score In 2024-25: The Ultimate Guide

Meeting TOEFL Exam Eligibility: Required Documents

When it comes to preparing for the TOEFL Exam, you’ll need to have the right documents in order. Here’s what you should know:

1. Aadhaar Card Acceptance: Currently, ETS is temporarily allowing Aadhaar Cards as a main ID for Indian test-takers. But remember, it has to be the original card – photocopies or printouts won’t work, and you can’t show it on your phone. Test-takers should also be aware that this policy may change in the future, so it’s advisable to check the ETS website regularly for the latest information on ID requirements.

2. Indian Passport: If you have a valid Indian passport with your name, photo, and signature, you’re good to go. However, it’s important to note that the passport should be valid on the day of the test.

3. Age 15 and Younger: If you’re 15 years old or younger, it’s best to have a parent or authorised adult (18 or older) with you. They’ll need to complete and sign a release form at the test centre. Both you and the parent/authorised adult should bring acceptable IDs, or else you won’t be allowed to take the test.

TOEFL Exam Eligibility: Retake

The good news for those considering a TOEFL retake is that there’s no limit to how many times you can participate in the TOEFL exam.

Yet, it’s important to be aware of the TOEFL Exam Eligibility that you can only take the test once within 3 days. You must allow at least 3 days between two consecutive TOEFL exams.

So, if you’re contemplating taking or retaking the TOEFL iBT test, here are some steps you can take to prepare:

1. Enhance your skills.
2. Make use of the TOEFL iBT free practice test.
3. Enroll in the official online TOEFL iBT course.
4. Watch the ETS-approved TOEFL video playlist.
5. Secure your spot by registering for your upcoming test.
6. Know the TOEFL exam eligibility.

Your TOEFL Exam Eligibility allows you the chance to strive for improvement, and these steps will help you make the most of that opportunity.

TOEFL Exam Eligibility for Scholarship

Studying abroad comes with huge investments. But if you are thinking of taking the TOEFL exam, then you should know that you are eligible for scholarships that will help fulfil your dream of studying abroad. 

Here’s the TOEFL exam eligibility for Indian students to avail scholarships:

• The student must be a resident of India.
• He or she must have a valid TOEFL score report.
• Applicant should hold a GPA of 80/100 or 3.0.
• Applicants can apply to only those universities or colleges listed under the TOEFL Destination Search.

There are many scholarships offered by the exam conducting bodies, the TOEFL board, and the ETS for Indian students, each with specific eligibility requirements as mentioned below:

Read more about the TOEFL Scholarship Program In 2024

TOEFL Exam Eligibility: TOEFL iBT Home Edition

With TOEFL iBT Home Edition, you can take the TOEFL iBT test right from the comfort and safety of your home. But here’s the catch: this version is closely monitored, and to proceed with TOEFL iBT Home Edition registration, you need to meet certain requirements.

First and foremost, you’ll need to ensure your system meets the prescribed technical requirements and TOEFL exam eligibility. Plus, creating an appropriate testing environment is essential. 

Let’s dive into the specifics of these requirements:

Equipment requirements

• Desktop or laptop computer only; a tablet or mobile device is not allowed.
• Only one monitor or screen is allowed.
• PC: Windows operating system, version 10 or higher
• MAC: Mac OS X® 10.13 or higher
• browser: Chrome™ or Firefox®
• Only internal or external speakers/microphones are allowed to listen to the proctor; no headsets or earphones are used.
• An inbuilt webcam or a camera is allowed(no external device)
• You need to show a 360-degree view of the room to the proctor.
• Run an equipment check before and on test day.
• All browsers and applications that are not required for the test should be closed.
• Disable any screen-sharing or remote-access software before the test.

Environment and Testing Space Requirements

• Sit in a quiet environment on the test day.
• The test cannot be taken in public spaces such as a park, internet cafe or restaurant.
• The computer and keyboard need to be on a desk or other tabletop surface.
• No eatables(food and drinks) or items(cell phones, cameras, notes, and study materials) are allowed in the test room.
• Sit straight on a chair; you can’t sit on a bed, couch or overstuffed chair.
• Applicant’s ears and face should be clearly visible during the test; no accessories are allowed(headphones, smartwatches, face masks, jewellery, etc.).
• Wear a formal dress code, as you’ll be monitored by a proctor.
• Applicants can take notes during the exam by only using the following devices:
  • one small desktop whiteboard with an erasable marker, no pencil or pen
  • one sheet of paper inside a transparent sheet protector with an erasable marker
• Once the test ends, the applicants need to show the proctor that all notes have been erased.

Read more about TOEFL Online Exam 2024 Made Easy: A Complete Guide

TOEFL Exam Registration 2024

When it comes to signing up for the TOEFL exam eligibility, age is not a limiting factor. Whether you’re a young student or a seasoned professional, as per TOEFL exam eligibility, you’re welcome to register via email, phone, online and offline.

The registration for TOEFL exam is available throughout the year ( 24 hours a day, 7 days a week) at authorised test centres or at home. The TOEFL Academic dates keep changing according to the city you choose for attempting the exam.

Online Registration Method or via the TOEFL Official App

To make the process even smoother, we’ve outlined a step-by-step guide for your online application:

Step 1: Create your profile on the official website of ETS or via the TOEFL Official App.

Step 2: Accurately submit details like email ID, address, name, contact number and other details if asked.

Step 3: Cross-check the details on the passport and provide the same. Make sure that your name and date of birth exactly match with those mentioned on ID document that you will bring to test centre.

Step 4: Provide your location details and choose a date range to find the nearest test centre.

Step 5: Choose the most convenient test date from available dates and test centres near you.

Step 6: Pay the TOEFL application fee(INR 16,900) via any secure online payment platform.

Note: You can’t register for TOEFL iBT Home Edition or Paper Edition through the TOEFL official app. Only appointments for test centre is allowed through app.

Registering by mail

To register for TOEFL exams by mail, you first need to download the application form and fill in all the required information. Then, you need to  send that application form along with the form fee to the address mentioned on the form or to the Gurgaon resource centre given below:

“Prometric,

2nd floor, DLF Infinity Tower – A,

Sector 25,

Phase 2,

DLF City,

Gurgaon,

Haryana – 122002,

India.

Make sure that your completed application form is received at registration centere or Gurgaon resource centre  at least 4 weeks prior to your earliest test date.

Registering by phone

You can also register for the TOEFL exam by phone at +91 124 414 7700.

Here are the steps given to register by phone:

Step 1: Check the registration form and keep all your documents handy before making a phone call.

Step 2: Provide all the details asked during the phone call.

Step 3:Pay fees using a credit/ debit card through directions specified by them.

Step 4: Make sure to register at least 7 days before your test appointment till 5 pm to avoid any late fees charges.

Note:

• It’s advisable to choose a test date 2-3 months prior to the admission deadline to make sure your scores are reported in time.
• Test centres may have limited seats and test dates, so register early. The TOEFL exam registration window opens approximately 6 months prior to test dates.

Also Read: TOEFL Exam 2023: TOEFL Full Form, Registration & Information Guide

TOEFL Exam Self-Preparation Tips

Here are some effective self-preparation tips for the TOEFL exam:

1. Understand the Format: Learn how many sections there are, what each section tests, and the time allotted.
2. Set a Study Schedule: Create a study timetable that suits your routine. Allocate specific time slots for each exam section, focusing on your strengths and weaknesses.
3. Practice Regularly: Consistent practice is key. Work on sample questions, full-length practice tests to build your skills and online resources to boost your confidence.
4. Improve Reading Skills: Read English newspapers, magazines, academic articles, and online resources. This will enhance your comprehension and vocabulary.
5. Listen Actively: Tune in to English podcasts, and watch movies, TV shows, and documentaries without subtitles. This will improve your listening skills and help you understand different accents.
6. Speak and Write: Improve your English speaking and writing skills by practising regularly. Engage in English conversations with friends or by recording yourself. Practice writing essays on various topics to improve your written expression.
7. Use Study Resources: Utilise TOEFL preparation books, online resources, and official practice materials provided by ETS. These resources align closely with the actual test.
8. Time Management: Simulate the real test environment during practice tests by timing yourself for each section. Learn to manage your time effectively.
9. Review and Analyse: Review your answers and analyse your mistakes after each practice test. Focus on understanding why you got certain questions wrong and learn from them.
10. Stay Updated: Keep abreast of any changes or updates to the TOEFL exam eligibility. Regularly check the official ETS website for announcements.
11. Seek Feedback: If possible, have a teacher, tutor, or fluent English speaker review your practice essays and offer feedback.

Also Read: TOEFL Exam Syllabus 2024: Detailed Section Wise Syllabus

So, remember, there’s no age limit or specific school requirements for the TOEFL Exam Eligibility. People who don’t speak English as their first language take this test if they want to study or work in English-speaking countries like the UK, Germany, the USA, and Australia.

If you’re getting ready for this exam, make sure you know these things and start getting ready as soon as you can. Your journey is just beginning, and the more you prepare, the better your chances of success. So, don’t wait – start getting ready for the TOEFL exam now!

At Leap Scholar, we understand the challenges you might face on your TOEFL journey. Our expert team of counsellors boasts over 50 years of collective experience in aiding students with their international education plans.

Secure your spot by scheduling a complimentary counselling session with us today!