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6 August 2025

4 minutes read

Can You Take the TOEFL Test Online (TOEFL Online Exam and TOEFL iBT Test Day Tips for Indian Students)?

Dirghayu Kaushik
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Dirghayu Kaushik

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Founder & CEO

Dirghayu Kaushik is the co-founder and CEO of Ambitio. He started this platform because he’s been in your shoes—navigating confusing websites, second-guessing college choices, and trying to make sense of what actually matters in an application. A graduate of IIT BHU, Dirghayu combines personal experience with data-backed guidance to help students apply smarter. Whether it’s choosing the right course, building a standout profile, or writing essays that don’t feel forced, his mission is simple: to make getting into your dream university less overwhelming, and a little more honest.

27 August 2024

4 minutes read

Key Takeaways

  • Can you take the TOEFL test online from anywhere? Yes, through ETS’s Home Edition with live remote proctoring and secure software.
  • Can you take the TOEFL test online with the same validity as center-based tests? Absolutely, scores are equally accepted by universities worldwide.
  • Can you take the TOEFL test online using your home setup? Yes, just meet the equipment requirements and follow all on-screen procedures.

Many Indian students often wonder whether they can take the TOEFL test online, especially with university deadlines around the corner. The short answer is yes. ETS, the official test-maker, offers the TOEFL iBT Home-Edition, which mirrors the in-person test while allowing you to take the test from your home, office or any quiet space that meets equipment requirements.

Can You Take the TOEFL Test Online Worldwide?

Fun fact: The TOEFL iBT Home-Edition is available in nearly every country where the TOEFL iBT is available.

can you take the toefl test online 1

Here’s what you need to know:

  • You may take the TOEFL iBT Home-Edition anywhere with a stable internet connection and quiet environment.
  • The platform used for the test ensures that your screen, audio, and video are visible to the proctor throughout the test.
  • Remote-access software and screen-sharing help enforce rules just like a test center would.
FeatureAvailability
TOEFL iBT Home-EditionAvailable in most countries
Internet RequirementHigh-speed, stable
ProctoringLive remote proctor’s view

What is the TOEFL Exam and TOEFL iBT Test for University and College Admission?

Did you know? Over 11,500 institutions in 160+ countries accept to students to take the TOEFL iBT test, making it a global benchmark for university admissions.

Here’s why students take the test:

SectionPurpose
Reading SectionMeasures ability to read a passage
Listening SectionAssesses listening comprehension
Speaking SectionTests your speaking skills
Writing SectionEvaluates academic writing skills

Is the TOEFL iBT Home Edition Test the Same as the Regular TOEFL?

Fun fact: The Home Edition is identical to the traditional TOEFL test taken at a center, including the speaking section.

Both tests follow the same format, scoring pattern, and are equally accepted by universities.

FeatureTest Center TOEFLTOEFL iBT Home Edition
Test FormatIdenticalIdentical
MonitoringIn-personLive remote proctor
Score ReportsOfficial + UnofficialOfficial + Unofficial
Use for College AdmissionAcceptedAccepted

How to Register for the TOEFL iBT Test at Home?

Here’s a quirky fact: Registration for the TOEFL iBT Home Edition is available 24/7—you can even register at midnight if you want!

To register for a test, follow these:

  • Create or log in to your ETS account to register.
  • Choose a test date and location as “Home Edition”.
  • Complete the procedure and check the confirmation email.
StepDetails
Account CreationThrough official ETS website
Test Date SelectionFlexible calendar view
ConfirmationEmail with full test instructions

How Long is a TOEFL Online Test Session and What are the Qualifying Test Scores?

Here’s something interesting: There’s a 10-minute break between sections to help you recharge before the test resumes.

can you take the toefl test online 2

More key details:

  • The TOEFL iBT lasts approximately 2 hours.
  • Scores range between 0–120, with section-wise split.
  • Most top universities expect scores above 90 for competitive admissions and GPA alignment.
SectionDurationScore Range
Reading~35 minutes0–30
Listening~36 minutes0–30
Speaking~16 minutes0–30
Writing~29 minutes0–30

What are the Equipment Requirements for TOEFL iBT®?

Fun fact: ETS has its own pre-check tool to ensure your setup meets all equipment requirements before test day!

Ensure you have the following:

  • A computer (not mobile devices) with a supported operating system.
  • Functional headset and monitor, no external cameras.
  • Disable screen-capture, reuse of shared testing materials, and prewritten notes or textbooks.
RequirementDetails
Computer TypeDesktop or laptop only
Internet ConnectionWired or strong Wi-Fi
Audio SetupInternal or external headset
Camera & MonitorMust remain on and visible to the proctor

Does TOEFL iBT Have Proctors for Test Takers?

Did you know? The proctor can contact the test taker anytime during the session if rules aren’t followed.

Here’s what to expect on test day:

  • A proctor’s live supervision is in place from start to finish.
  • You may not cancel or pause unless told by the proctor.
  • Test sessions use screen-sharing and remote-access tools.
Monitoring FeaturePurpose
Proctor Live ViewEnsure fairness throughout the test
Screen SharingMonitor activity on your desktop
Communication OptionChat or voice via proctoring software

Conclusion

Indian students can confidently take the TOEFL iBT from home thanks to ETS’s seamless TOEFL Home platform. From equipment checks to proctoring, everything is crafted to mirror a center-based experience.

The test supports your admission documents like your GPA, resume, letter of recommendation, and statement of purpose. Ready to ace your dream university’s language requirement?

Join Ambitio, your all-in-one learning portal, and unlock a world of personalized guidance, test prep, and expert mentorship for TOEFL, IELTS, GRE, SAT, and more!

FAQs

Can you take the TOEFL test online from your bedroom?

If you’re wondering, can you take the TOEFL test online without stepping outside—yes, you can. All you need is a quiet room, reliable internet, and approved equipment.

Can you take the TOEFL test online and still impress top universities?

Yes, can you take the TOEFL test online and send valid scores? Universities treat the online version exactly like the test center one—it’s equally credible.

Can you take the TOEFL test online if your schedule is hectic?

If time is tight and you’re asking, can you take the TOEFL test online at your convenience—the answer is yes. Home Edition slots are flexible and available 24/7.

Can you take the TOEFL test online with tech you already own?

Can you take the TOEFL test online using your own laptop and headset? Absolutely—as long as they meet ETS’s system checks and software requirements.

Can you take the TOEFL test online and still talk to a live proctor?

Yes, can you take the TOEFL test online while monitored? Every test is supervised by a real proctor through screen sharing and webcam from start to finish.

Can you take the TOEFL test online more than once if needed?

If you’re not happy with your score and wonder, can you take the TOEFL test online again —the answer is yes. You can retake it after just 3 days.

Can you take the TOEFL test online and still take a break mid-test?

Surprisingly, yes— can you take the TOEFL test online and pause? A 10-minute break is built into the format to help you stay fresh and focused.
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