The TOEFL exam is taken by non-native speakers to gauge English ability when applying to an English-speaking college or university. It is accepted at over 6,000 institutions worldwide.
Students can prepare for the exam by reviewing sample questions, topics and other materials provided by TOEFL (See Resources.)
The traditional paper TOEFL tests consists of a multiple-choice listening, reading and English structure/written expression sections, as well as a writing section.
The Internet test (TOEFL iBT) consists of reading, listening, speaking and writing sections.
Scores on TOEFL tests are valid for two years. After that, the student must take a new test if she wants to submit scores to another institution.