Test takers may choose the written TOEFL or a computer-based version, according to Educational Testing Service. Theoretically, the tests should compare equally, but TestMagic.com claims that most people believe the written TOEFL to be easier than the Internet-based one.
The TOEFL is comprised of three main parts: reading, writing and listening. The listening portion has 50 questions based on English as used in North America. The reading section also has 50 questions that test a person's ability to comprehend everyday English material. The writing part has 40 questions over the mechanics of English and a written essay.
In 2002, the average person scored a 220 on the TOEFL (scores range from 17 to 300).
Most colleges and universities require applicants from non-native English speaking countries to take the TOEFL as a requirement for admission or score high enough on the verbal areas of another standardized test, such as SAT.
According to TestMagic.com, TOEFL scores expire after two years and most educational institutions do not accept personal copies of scores.