Big Changes to TOEFL iBT: What International Students Must Know

Tarang Patel

Study Abroad

30/05/2025

80 Views

Tarang Patel

Study Abroad

30/05/2025

80 Views

ETS introduces major upgrades to the TOEFL iBT exam, including AI-based ID checks, simplified registration, adaptive testing, and dual scoring, reshaping the test experience for international students.

Introduction

ETS, the organization behind the TOEFL iBT exam, is rolling out transformative changes designed to enhance the experience for international test-takers. These include AI-powered identification, an easier registration process, and a multi-stage adaptive testing model, ushering in a new era of exam personalization and security.

For students planning to study abroad, these changes aim to make language testing more efficient, accurate, and student-friendly. If you’re preparing for upcoming exams, now is the perfect time to understand how these updates can benefit you.

Key Enhancements to the TOEFL iBT Exam

1. AI-Powered Identity Verification

One of the most notable upgrades is the integration of AI through ETS’s ENTRUST system. This technology will streamline test-day identity checks, reducing human errors and speeding up the check-in process. It’s a leap forward in secure and stress-free testing.

2. Simplified Registration and Experience

Starting May 30, 2025, the TOEFL iBT Home Edition now offers a simplified registration process and real-time support from in-house proctors trained by ETS. This ensures a consistent and supportive testing environment, an especially welcome change for students testing remotely.

3. Multi-Stage Adaptive Testing Coming in 2026

ETS is set to implement adaptive testing for the Reading and Listening sections in 2026. Based on your performance, the exam will adjust question difficulty in real time, delivering a more accurate assessment of your English proficiency.

4. New Dual Scoring System

In addition to the traditional 0–120 scale, score reports will now feature a 1–6 band scale aligned with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). This helps institutions better understand and compare applicant scores globally.

Why This Matters for International Students

These updates aim to make the TOEFL iBT a smarter, faster, and more inclusive test. For students navigating exams as part of their study abroad journey, these features reduce stress and increase the accuracy of results. Additionally, reducing cultural bias and improving test accessibility makes the process fairer for students from diverse backgrounds.

How a Study Abroad Education Consultant Can Help

As these changes roll out, understanding how to prepare and adapt becomes crucial. A study abroad education consultant can guide you through:

Choosing the right test format (home or in-center)
Registering efficiently under the new process
Preparing strategically for adaptive testing
Interpreting the dual score report for university applications

How My Study Offers Can Support You

At My Study Offers, we stay ahead of the curve so you don’t have to. Our expert counselors offer:

Customized TOEFL prep plans tailored to the new test format
Help with interpreting your scores and using them effectively in your applications
University matching based on updated test requirements
End-to-end support in your study abroad journey

Whether you’re starting your TOEFL prep or nearing test day, My Study Offers is here to help you succeed with confidence.

Conclusion

The TOEFL iBT is evolving to meet the needs of modern test-takers through AI integration, adaptive testing, and a student-first approach. These enhancements make the exam not only more secure but also more tailored to individual strengths. As the education landscape shifts, aligning with expert guidance like My Study Offers ensures you stay one step ahead in your journey abroad.