Overview of the TOEFL (2026 version)
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Preview of Upcoming 2026 TOEFL Version
Summary
The updated TOEFL exam, launching on January 21, 2026, introduces significant changes aimed at providing a more accurate assessment of English proficiency in academic and daily life contexts.
- The TOEFL iBT measures English usage in real-life academic situations, targeting students and professionals seeking education or work in English-speaking environments.
- The 2026 version shortens the test duration to less than an hour and a half, introduces adaptive reading and listening sections, and incorporates new question types.
- Scoring transitions to a 1-6 band system, aligning with the CEFR, while maintaining the 0-120 scale during a transition period to accommodate institutions.
- Test content now includes a mix of academic texts and everyday materials, with tasks that reflect practical English usage, such as writing emails and participating in discussions.
- The test can be taken at official centers or at home, with identical scoring, and is developed by ETS, emphasizing its departure from previous formats to focus on real-world English proficiency.
Chapters
00:00
Introduction to the New TOEFL
01:09
Who Takes the TOEFL and Why
03:10
What's New in 2026
04:34
Understanding the Test Format
05:23
Taking the Test: Procedures and Scoring
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Where in Magoosh can I study for the new 2026 TOEFL?
A: You can toggle your dashboard to the 2026 version:
1. Go to your main dashboard
2. Near the top is a box that includes the toggle. Click the link there to toggle your dashboard over to the new 2026 TOEFL version.
3. You'll then be able to see all our new lessons, questions, and practice tests! (With more to come in the future!)
Also, if you decide to continue studying for the current TOEFL, you can always toggle your dashboard back to the original version.