The world is filled with acronyms, but some of them are more important than others. In the world of language and education, the acronym TOEFL is one of the most critical, and one of the most important to understand.

If you are not already familiar with the TOEFL acronym and score, it is time to learn a little bit about it. The more you know about how the TOEFL score is calculated, the easier it will be to get the score you need to secure your personal and professional future.

TOEFL stands for Test of English as a Foreign Language, and the point range runs from 0 to 120. The test itself is divided into four distinct sections, with each section score on a 0 to 30 basis.

Understanding the TOEFL Score

If you want to score well on the TOEFL test, it is important to understand how the test is administered, and how it is scored. For instance, your TOEFL score is based on how well you perform on the individual questions. In order to receive a TOEFL score, the individual taking the test must answer a minimum of one question in the Reading and Listening sections. In addition to those required questions, the individual must also write at least one essay and complete at least one speaking task.

The TOEFL test can be taken online, and when the exam is complete, the applicant will receive four separately scaled section scores, along with a total score. The four separate scores that make up the overall TOEFL score are:

•   The reading section, with a score range of 0 to 30

•   The listening section, with a score range of 0 to 30

•   The speaking section, with a potential range of 0 to 30

•   The writing section, with a range of 0 to 30

•   The total score, ranging from 0 to 120

The numerical score is the most visible, and arguably the most important, part of the TOEFL testing process, but it is not the only part. In addition to their TOEFL scores, test takers will also receive an official report, including professional feedback on their performance. This individualized feedback reflects the performance level of the test taker. More notably, the report will also indicate the types of tasks that can be attempted, based on the score received.

No Passing or Failing Grade

It is important to note that the TOEFL is different from other exams in that there is no passing or failing score. The 0 to 120 point range is important for reference purposes, and a higher score is certainly better than a low one. Even so, it is important to note that individual agencies and educational institutions are free to set their own TOEFL score requirements. This flexibility provides TOEFL test takers with additional options, so a relatively low score is not necessarily cause for alarm. We at Golden Gate Language School can help you understand more about these requirements and prepare you for the exam.

When an individual receives a TOEFL score, that score will be valid for two years following the test date. Those planning to pursue a career in higher education will also be happy to know that there is no limit on the number of times an individual can take the test. The only restriction is that an individual may not take the TOEFL test more than one time within a 12 day period.

That means if you already have a test appointment scheduled, you will not be able to register for a second test within 12 days of the original appointment date. Apart from that restriction, applicants are free to take the TOEFL test as many times as they wish.

If you are worried about the TOEFL test and are not sure about taking it, don’t. Golden Gate Language School has affiliate institutions that will accept you without a TOEFL score. With our Guaranteed Transfer Program you can be confident that you will have a successful college transition even without a TOEFL score.

How the TOEFL Test is Scored

If this is your first time taking the TOEFL test, it is important to understand how the exam is scored. When you answer the questions on the TOEFL, your performance will be assessed by both human raters and an automated scoring system. This combination of human input and machine scoring is designed to provide an accurate and complete picture of your abilities in the four areas covered.

The input of human scorers is particularly important on the writing section of the test. While automated scoring is an important part of the process, the human element is needed to assess the test taker's ability to communicate ideas, demonstrate fluency, and master the linguistic features of the English language. Our school will help you achieve your fluency goals.

The test has been carefully designed to gauge proficiency, and the results of the exam are taken very seriously by educational institutions and organizations around the world. Knowing how the test is scored and the components it contains will make studying for the TOEFL easier, so you can get the score you want the first time.

Improve Your Language Skills

If you are looking for the perfect school to improve your language proficiency and get you ready for TOEFL, you cannot do better than the Golden Gate Language School (GGLS). At GGLS, we specialize in helping students prepare for the TOEFL exam, and our results speak for themselves.

Through our many years of TOEFL training, the Golden Gate Language School (GGLS) has helped thousands of students from China, Brazil, Japan, Korea and Taiwan gain the skills they need to succeed in the exam, and in life. The glowing references our students have provided is further proof that the Golden Gate Language School is the best training resource around.

To learn more about TOEFL and what our school offers contact us right away.

Guaranteed Transfer Program

You can transfer from our school to a community college and even some universities without a TOEFL. Contact us right away to learn more!

If you're a student hoping to study abroad, don't drop American colleges to the bottom of your list. We understand if the current political climate is causing concern, but news reports are often sensationalized. The United States is still very safe for international students, and we'll tell you why.

When you're applying to schools, you should keep in mind that the USA is a huge, diverse country. Inside our 50 states, we have hundreds of upscale universities and colleges. Many of these fine institutions are located in friendly cities with welcoming citizens, peaceful neighbourhoods, and low crime rates.

Indeed, the West Coast is famous for its hospitable spirit towards newcomers. In California, we're especially proud of our multinational heritage, culture, and roots. Our sunny shores also host an impressive array of schools! Keep reading to discover why the Bay Area should be your top place to apply.

Wonderful Reasons to Study in California 

Beloved for picturesque beaches, natural beauty, and energetic lifestyle, California is a whirlwind of vibrant activity. Our major cities, like San Jose, Los Angeles, and Sacramento, are truly exceptional, each offering unique gems to discover. As California residents, we know you'll be happy living anywhere across this state! Here are the top 5 reasons why you should move here for school:

•   Welcoming Spirit: Around the world, Californians have a reputation for their laid back, easygoing approach to life. We're always happy to stop and chat to newcomers. Plus we'll help you on your way if you get lost! Of course, our year-round sunshine makes it difficult to ever be in a bad mood.

•   Celebrate Multiculturalism: Did you know that California is one of the USA's most diverse states? We come in 2nd place after Hawaii! Multiculturalism is celebrated and honored here. We believe that residents of all heritages have lots to offer our united community. Together, we create a beautiful mosaic of cultures, traditions, and histories.

•   Excellent Colleges: Education is a huge priority here. That's why we boast several of the USA's top universities and colleges! UCLA, Stanford University, UC Berkeley, Santa Clara University, and Pomona College all call California home.

If you're looking for a world-class secondary education, getting your degree in California can short-track you to success. With its thriving economy, our state hosts many successful sectors, including Silicon Valley, a robust tech scene, the cutting-edge California Aerospace Industry, and Hollywood's motion picture industry. 

•   Beautiful Weather: Nowhere is perfect, but California sure comes close! Nestled by the Pacific Ocean, our climate is warm and sunny. The temperature rarely dips below 50 degrees. So, you can write your college essays outside--even in the middle of winter! 

•   Lots to See and Do: You'll never get bored living here because California is filled with wonderful things to experience. Outdoor lovers can take advantage of our iconic beaches, which are perfect for swimming and surfing or enjoy nature hikes through the mountains. We also have an abundance of museums, art galleries, and theatres.

California is also known for its award-winning restaurants, which take inspiration from international cuisine to create upscale, flavorful dishes. With plenty of 3rd wave cafés, coffee culture is thriving here too. Needless to say, your study breaks will never be the same again! 

Looking for a Top-Rated Language School?

If you'd like help polishing your English skills, Golden Gate Language School is ready to welcome you. We're conveniently located in the Bay Area's city of Campbell, nearby to San Diego, Silicon Valley, and several top universities.

Since 1979, GGLS's excellent instructors have helped international students reach their English language goals. We specialize in teaching ESL through dynamic, educational lessons, where students learn language skills both inside and outside of the classroom. We look forward to giving you the confidence to succeed!

Call us today at (408) 374-9954 or send us a message here.