When it comes to studying abroad, proficiency in the English language is a must. In this context, TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is a standardized assessment that universities worldwide evaluate as a primary qualification for admission. The testing system is designed and administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS), which also issues the scores. This article provides a comprehensive guide for registering for the TOEFL exam.
Things You Need to Know Before the Registration
Means of Registration
The app, MYTOEFL, is available for free on Apple’s App Store and Google Play for registration. However, registration through the app is only applicable for attending the exam in person at a center. TOEFL iBT (Internet-Based Test) Home Edition or Paper Edition must be registered on the ETS website (www.ets.org).
Test Frequency
The TOEFL iBT exam is held six times a week. Test-takers can participate either by visiting an authorized center or by creating a suitable environment at home. Moreover, the test is administered more than 50 times a year, allowing students to participate as often as they like. However, a retake cannot be scheduled within 12 days of the previous exam.
The Schedules are Changeable
All updated information regarding exam centers and dates is available through an ETS account. These details may change at any time for various reasons, so it's important to regularly check your ETS account to stay updated on the latest appointment statuses. Not all centers may be open on all exam dates.
Setting a Proper Exam Date
Registration opens approximately six months before the test date. Test date slots usually fill up quickly, so it’s advisable to register as soon as possible to secure your preferred date and center. Registering around four months prior to the exam date increases your chances of getting the desired slot.
Exam dates should be chosen so they fall at least 2 to 3 months leading up to the university’s initial application deadline.
Read more: IELTS Practice Tests: 7 Full Free IELTS Mock Tests to Take Online
Registration Fee
Currently, the regular TOEFL online registration fee is USD 205 or approximately BDT 24,093 (USD 1 = BDT 117.52). Regular registration closes seven days ahead of the test. Late registration is accepted but incurs an additional fee of USD 40 (about BDT 4,701), and it closes exactly two days before the exam date.
Necessary Contact Information
For any TOEFL-related issues, including registration, visit https://auto.proctoru.com/chat/ for live chat support. Additionally, there is a phone number for round-the-clock communication: 1-609-771-7100.
Step-by-Step TOEFL Test Registration Procedure for Bangladeshi Applicants
Opening an Account on ETS
The first step before registration is to create an account on the ETS portal. Go directly to www.ets.org/mytoefl. Set up your username, email address, and a few security questions.
Read more: IELTS vs TOEFL: Which is better for study abroad?
A message will be sent to the provided email address with your username and a temporary password. After logging in with these credentials, you will be prompted to change the password. Complete the account creation process by setting a password of your choice.
Providing Relevant Details
Once the account is created, a unique ETS ID will be displayed on your MyTOEFL Home page. On the registration screen, various details, including personal information, will be requested using this ID. It is crucial to accurately fill all fields marked with an asterisk (*).
Ensure that the spelling of your name matches exactly with your passport or National Identity Card (NID). For verification, it is advisable to have your passport and NID card handy while completing the registration form. Once all information is entered, it will be displayed on your profile.
Read more: TOEFL Preparation: Best Free Online Resources, Guidelines, and Mock Test Opportunities
Setting Exam Date and Center
Select your TOEFL center and exam date during this step. The available dates and specific exam centers will be displayed on the screen. Clicking on any center will show the schedule for the selected date.
Adding TOEFL Score Recipients
You can designate up to four educational institutions to receive your TOEFL scores. This must be done by 10 PM on the day before the exam. Each additional institution added thereafter will incur a fee of USD 20 (around BDT 2,351). Once this deadline passes, the names of universities already provided cannot be changed or removed. University codes can be found on the ETS website (www.ets.org/toefl/test-takers/).
Upload Necessary Documents
Upload the required identification documents as specified. Additionally, include a personal mobile number for further contact.
Read more: TOEFL Practice Tests: 7 Full Free TOEFL Mock Tests to Take Online
Payment Method
The most accepted payment methods at ETS include credit and debit cards. Dual-currency cards such as Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover can be used for online payment during registration.
Confirmation Email
Upon successful completion of registration, a confirmation message with the test date and center details will be sent to your ETS account.
Takeaways
So far, we have discussed the sequential steps of the DIY TOEFL registration process from Bangladesh. The process carries significant weight, underscoring the importance of meticulous planning. In particular, determining the proper exam date and center is crucial for adequate preparation and minimizing logistical issues. Additionally, setting the exam time to align with university application deadlines is essential to avoid last-minute stress. In essence, the work plan ensures that the necessary scores are achieved for academic or professional aspirations.
Read more: How to Register for IELTS Exam in Bangladesh