The TOEFL exam is changing – but why?
Starting in January 2026, the TOEFL exam, a widely used English language proficiency test, will be undergoing some drastic changes.
You might wonder why or how, so here’s some reasons and explanations to help you out.
For anyone somewhat familiar with the current TOEFL, you’ll know it is heavy on high-level academic and somewhat outdated literature. Although shorter than it used to be, it is still over 2 hours long. Possibly one of the most significant issues with the current exam is that you essentially need a B2 level of English to even attempt it due to the content and scoring methods.
So, how will the new TOEFL be presented?
- It is still an online test, and you can take it from home or at a test center.
- The test will be adaptive, adjusting to each student's ability level.
- It is designed in four shorter sections of reading, listening, speaking, and writing.
The content includes more real-life situations, focuses on the modern English that students encounter in daily life, and poses questions in a familiar and understandable way. - The updated score scale (1 - 6 in half-point increments) lines up closer to CEFR, and you can receive your scores after just 72 hours.
For more details and resources, check out this link on the TOEFL website: https://www.ets.org/toefl/test-takers/ibt/about/content.html?version=after-jan-2026
Here at Primavera English we look forward to helping you in the learning process for this important exam.