What is the TOEFL Test? Are you planning to pursue a degree within the U.S., Canada, or other English-speaking countries? Then, the TOEFL test will be your best chance to gain access to international education opportunities.
TOEFL is the acronym for the Test of English as a Foreign Language. It evaluates your ability to utilize and comprehend English in a classroom environment. Most universities in the U.S., Canada, the UK, Australia, and some universities in Europe have TOEFL requirements for students who are not native speakers.
If you’re a Nigerian student who wants admission to top universities and colleges worldwide, consider the TOEFL IBT (Internet-Based Test) as one of your top choices. It is widely recognized, simple to learn, and available across Nigeria.
The guide below will cover everything you should know about the TOEFL test in 2025—from its structure to scoring to registration and tips for passing it.
What Is the TOEFL Test?
The TOEFL examination is an internationally based English test for proficiency in the English language developed for ETS (Educational Testing Service). It assesses the proficiency of non-natives in using English for reading, listening, writing, speaking, and reading assignments. The Test is modelled after authentic academic environments, such as class lectures, discussion groups, and writing assignments.
Key Facts About TOEFL:
- Meaning in full Test of English as an International Language
- Administered by: Educational Testing Service (ETS)
- Test type: Internet-based Test (iBT)
- Accepted by over 11500 universities spread across more than 160 countries
- Validity 2 years
Why Take the TOEFL Test?
Here’s the reason TOEFL is the most popular Test for a lot of Nigerian students:
Widely Accepted
More than 90% of universities in the U.S., Canada, the UK, and Australia accept TOEFL scores.
Focus on Academic English
TOEFL is based on practical academic applications, making it ideal for students wishing to attend universities.
Available in Nigeria
Many TOEFL test centres are ETS-approved in Nigeria, making the Test accessible to students nationwide.
Multiple Test Dates
Tests are offered all year long and are available at physical test centres and online through TOEFL Home Edition.
Fast Results
You’ll get your results in 4- 8 days after the Test.
TOEFL iBT Test Format (2025)
The TOEFL IBT test is broken down into four major sections:
Section | Time | Tasks | Score Range |
Reading | 35 minutes | Read 2–3 passages and answer questions | 0–30 |
Listening | 36 minutes | Listen to lectures and conversations | 0–30 |
Speaking | 16 minutes | 4 speaking tasks (1 independent, 3 integrated) | 0–30 |
Writing | 29 minutes | 2 tasks: integrated and independent | 0–30 |
Total Test Time: Around 2 hours
Total Score: 0–120
TOEFL vs IELTS – Which is Better for Nigerians?
Feature | TOEFL | |
Accent Focus | North American | British/Commonwealth |
Format | Internet-based | Paper or Computer-based |
Speaking Section | Computer-recorded | Face-to-face interview |
Acceptance | Widely accepted in U.S. & Canada | Popular in UK & Europe |
Score Range | 0–120 | 1.0–9.0 |
Tips: The TOEFL test is the most suitable alternative for admission to U.S. or Canadian universities. Both are accepted by UK universities.
TOEFL Home Edition in Nigeria
Are you unable to get to an exam centre? ETS offers a TOEFL-iBT home edition. All you require is:
- An efficient computer that has cameras
- Stable internet
- A quiet, private space
- Valid Nigerian international passport
Home Edition Home Edition has the same structure, difficulty, format, and validity as the standard iBT test.
Where to Take the TOEFL in Nigeria (Test Centers)
Here are the approved Test centres for Nigeria:
City | Test Centre | Address |
Abuja | Galaxy Uniprep Centre | No. 3 Al-Khums Close, Off Lingu Crescent, by NNPC Station |
Lagos | French Connection Nigeria Ltd | Landmark Building, Lekki–Epe Expressway |
Port Harcourt | Jephthah Schools Ltd | KM 4 East–West Road, Port Harcourt |
Owerri | SWINTECH Computer Institute | Government House Road, Owerri |
How Much Is the TOEFL Test in Nigeria (2025)?
Test Type | Cost (USD) | Approx. in Naira (₦) |
TOEFL iBT | $195 | ₦285,000–₦310,000 |
Home Edition | $195 | ₦285,000–₦310,000 |
Rescheduling Fee | $60 | ₦90,000–₦100,000 |
Score Reports | $20 per report | ₦30,000–₦35,000 |
Exchange rates can vary, so prices can fluctuate. Always check the official ETS website before making a payment.
How to Register for the TOEFL Test in Nigeria
Use these steps to register for the TOEFL exam:
Step 1: Create an ETS Account
Visit the official ETS website https://www.ets.org/toefl and create an account.
Step 2: Choose a Test Date and Center
Check test dates and choose a test location near your home. Nigerian cities such as Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, Enugu, and Ibadan have test centres.
Step 3: Pay the Registration Fee
The TOEFL iBT cost in Nigeria is approximately $220-USD 250 (approx. N300,000+, based on the exchange rates).
Step 4: Confirmation
After payment, you’ll receive an email confirmation with the date, time, and centre.
TOEFL Score Requirements by Country
Country | Typical TOEFL Score |
USA | 80–100 |
Canada | 90+ |
UK | 80–100 |
Australia | 90+ |
Germany | 80–100 |
Netherlands | 80–100 |
Always verify with the particular school or university to which you’re applying. Some require higher scores.
Study Tips to Prepare for TOEFL
- Understand the Test Format: Practice all four parts of the exam. Use official ETS resources to prepare.
- Practice Listening and Note-Taking: Listen to news, podcasts, and academic videos in English. Write a summary to improve understanding.
- Read Academic Texts: Read articles from websites such as National Geographic, BBC, or academic journals.
- Speak Daily in English: Try speaking before a mirror or with your study partner. Record yourself to monitor how you are progressing.
- Use TOEFL Practice Tests: Utilize official TOEFL prep software or apps on mobile devices to practice in controlled conditions.
- Write Essays Weekly: Practice essay writing using previous TOEFL writing prompts.
How Long is the TOEFL Score Valid?
The TOEFL test score will be valid for two years after the date you took the exam. After that, you’ll have to take the test to see if it is required by the organization or immigration agency.
TOEFL Scholarships and Fee Waivers
ETS provides TOEFL fee reductions and grants to top-performing foreign Students scholarship. You can apply directly via the Official TOEFL Website or consult with the university you plan to attend.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is TOEFL harder than IELTS?
Not really. Both have similar difficulty levels. TOEFL suits people more familiar with American English and computer-based tests.
How long is my TOEFL score valid?
Your score is valid for 2 years from your test date.
Can I retake the TOEFL test?
Yes. You can retake it after 3 days, but not more than once every 3 days.
What’s the minimum TOEFL score for the U.S.?
Most U.S. universities accept 80–100, but top schools may ask for 100+.
Can I use WAEC results instead of TOEFL?
No. WAEC English is not accepted for admission in most U.S. or Canadian universities.
Can I use TOEFL for a UK visa?
Yes, but only if it meets the UKVI Secure English Language Test (SELT) criteria. IELTS UKVI is more commonly accepted.
Can I register for TOEFL without a passport?
No. A valid international passport is required to register and sit for the test in Nigeria.
How do I send TOEFL scores to schools?
You can send 4 free reports when booking your test. Additional reports cost $20 each.
What’s the difference between TOEFL iBT and TOEFL Essentials?
TOEFL iBT is more academic and accepted widely. TOEFL Essentials is shorter and less intense, but not accepted by all universities.
Where can I find TOEFL past questions?
ETS offers sample tests on their official site. Other prep platforms like Magoosh and Kaplan offer past questions too.
Final Thoughts: Should You Take the TOEFL Test?
The TOEFL is an excellent option for Nigerian students interested in international universities, specifically those in the U.S., Canada, Australia, or the UK and Canada. It’s well-known, focuses on academic English, and has become accessible via home test options.
Begin preparing as early as possible, taking practice tests, and registering at least six weeks before the test day. With intense preparation, scoring 90+ is possible, even on the first attempt.