Introduction of TOEFL Program

The paper-based format of the test continued to be administered on specified dates in some countries, as well as in areas where accessibility to CBT testing centers was a concern. Each form of the current paperbased TOEFL test consists of three separately timed sections; the questions in each section are multiple-choice, with four possible answers or options per question. All responses are gridded on answer sheets that are computer scored. The total test time is approximately two and one-half hours; however, approximately three and one-half hours are needed for a test administration to admit examinees to the testing room, to allow them to enter identifying information on their answer sheets, and to distribute and collect the test materials. Language specialists prepare the material for the TOEFL test. The TOEFL Committee of Examiners establishes overall guidelines for the test content and specifications. All item specifications, questions, and final test forms are reviewed for cultural and racial bias and content appropriateness, according to established ETS procedures.

Section 1 of the test, Listening Comprehension, measures the ability to understand English as it is spoken in North America. The oral features of the language are stressed, and the problems tested include vocabulary and idiomatic expression as well as special grammatical constructions frequently used in spoken English. The stimulus material and oral questions are recorded in standard North American English; the response options are printed in the test books. Candidates with a simulation of the testing experience before the actual administration, previously administered test forms are packaged and made available world wide.

Section 2, Structure and Written Expression, measures recognition of selected structural and grammatical points in standard written English. The language tested is formal, rather than conversational. The topics of the sentences are of a general academic nature so that individuals in specific fields of study or from specific national or linguistic groups have no particular advantage.

Section 3, Reading Comprehension, measures the ability to read and understand short passages that are similar in topic and style to those that students are likely to encounter in North American colleges and universities. Examinees read a variety of short passages on academic subjects and answer several questions about each passage. The questions test information that is stated in or implied by the passage, as well as knowledge of some of the specific words as they are used in the passage. In 2002-03, the paperbased TOEFL test will be administered on these dates. Check the Information Bulletin. Not all centers are open on all
dates.

August 24, 2002
September 14, 2002
October 19, 2002
January 18, 2002
May 10, 2003
The Test of Written English (TWE), a 30-minute
writing test, will be administered with the TOEFL test
on the above dates.

For more information about test preparation products, see the Information Bulletin or www.toefl.org.