What is Coming?
TOEFL iBT Test Updates
From 21st January 2026, the updated TOEFL iBT test delivers even more value, bringing a fairer, more agile, smarter and tailored experience, all while maintaining the trusted academic standards teachers rely on.
Fair
Support equity in the classroom with content that’s inclusive and grounded in ETS research. Content now includes a blend of academic and campus life topics alongside accessible texts to give every student a fair shot at success.
Agile
Teach with greater flexibility using tools that respond to student progress and classroom realities with faster score turnaround, more efficient test-day structure, and content that adapts to diverse abilities, schedules, and teaching styles.
Smart
Support teaching and learning without adding complexity. From booking to results, every step is clearer and more streamlined, so teachers can focus on helping students build skills and confidence, not just prepare for a test.
Tailored
Support individual learners with flexible pathways that adapt in real time to their performance. The test adjusts within key sections to reduce pressure, sustain engagement, and boost confidence throughout the experience. 
Enhanced Test Experience, The Same Credibility
TOEFL iBT enhancements introduce a more student-friendly experience without compromising quality and academic standards. The topics will be more relevant and practical. The academic depth remains intact and is now supplemented with modernized updates and content. The test will continue to be offered both in test centers and at home.
What are the Benefits?
TOEFL iBT updates bring faster scores, a more agile and engaging test experience, and secure at home testing,featuring live human proctor support, making test day less stressful.
Test Evolution Overview
The provided text outlines a comparison table from the TOEFL iBT Updates flyer, detailing changes across Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing sections between the current test and the version starting January 2026. Below is a restructured, readable table mapping Estimated Timing, Number of Items, and Descriptions for each section.
| Section | Current Test | Starting January 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| Reading | 35 minutes 20 items Read passages and respond to questions | 36 minutes 28 items Multistage: Complete the Words, Read in Daily Life, Read an Academic Passage |
| Listening | 36 minutes (implied from sequence) 28 + 4 tasks Answer questions about brief lectures or classroom discussions | 16-29 minutes 35-48 items Multistage: Listen and Choose a Response, Listen to a Conversation, Listen to an Announcement, Listen to an Academic Talk |
| Speaking | About 18-27 minutes + About 8 minutes 4 tasks Talk about a familiar topic and discuss material you read and heard; Read a passage, listen to a recording, type your response | About 18-27 minutes 12 items Listen and Repeat, Take an Interview, Build a Sentence |
| Writing | About 23 minutes + About 18-27 minutes 2 tasks State and support an opinion in an online classroom discussion | About 23 minutes 12 items Write an Email, Write for an Academic Discussion |
Key Observations
Timings show minor adjustments, with Listening becoming more efficient (16-29 minutes vs. longer current). Item counts increase in most sections for the new multistage adaptive format. Descriptions shift toward practical, everyday tasks alongside academic ones, like “Read in Daily Life” and “Write an Email.”
Key Principles
Updates emphasize four core principles grounded in ETS research. Fairness introduces inclusive content blending academic and campus life topics for equitable access. Agility provides faster scores, efficient structures, and adaptable content for varied teaching styles.
Benefits for Teachers
Faster score turnaround and streamlined booking reduce administrative burden. Adaptive sections adjust to student performance, easing pressure and sustaining engagement. At-home testing with live proctoring and test-center options remain available.
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