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Author

Josh MacPherson
Head Instructor at TST Prep
Everything You Need to Know: Requirements, Cost, Setup, Scores, and More

The TOEFL iBT® Home Edition is a flexible and convenient option for anyone who wants to take the TOEFL test without going to a test center. In this updated 2025 guide, you’ll find everything you need to succeed: technical setup, cost breakdown by country, registration steps, score information, acceptance policies, comparison with other TOEFL formats, and expert tips for a smooth test day.

Let’s do it!

What Is the TOEFL iBT® Home Edition?

The TOEFL iBT Home Edition is exactly the same test as the traditional TOEFL iBT taken at a test center. It includes the same four sections: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing.

The only difference is where you take the test—from the comfort of your own home.

If you meet all the TOEFL iBT Home Edition requirements, including a quiet test environment and proper equipment, it’s a valid and convenient alternative to in-person testing.

TOEFL Home Edition Requirements & Setup

The TOEFL iBT Home Edition has strict requirements. Let’s break them down:

Technical Requirements for TOEFL at Home

To take the test at home, you’ll need:

  • A Windows or Mac computer (tablets and mobile devices not allowed)
  • A built-in or plug-in webcam
  • A microphone (built-in or external)
  • A stable internet connection (wired recommended)
  • The ETS Secure Test Browser installed
  • A wired power connection (not running on battery)

Before your test day, download the ETS Secure Browser and check it. This is required for the TOEFL iBT Home Edition test.

Room, ID, and Environment Rules

  • A quiet, private room
  • A desk or table that’s clear of any clutter or unauthorized materials
  • Your ID must be valid and government-issued (usually a passport)
  • The room door must be visible to the webcam
  • Your ears and face must remain uncovered
  • You’ll need a small whiteboard or transparent sheet and dry-erase marker for note-taking

Important: You cannot use pen and paper for notes. Note-taking in the TOEFL Home Edition is strictly limited to whiteboards or approved alternatives.

During the Test: Rules & Monitoring

  • No one else may enter the room
  • No headphones or headsets allowed
  • You may not wear jewelry or watches
  • Religious headwear is allowed as long as your ears remain visible
  • You must keep your eyes on the screen—proctors may cancel your test if they suspect cheating

Accessibility Options

ETS offers accommodations for individuals with disabilities, such as extended time, screen magnifiers, and screen readers. These must be requested during registration.

TOEFL Home Edition Price & Registration

TOEFL iBT Home Edition Price by Country

The TOEFL iBT Home Edition costs the same as the test center version. Prices vary depending on your location.

Here are some sample fees (as of early 2025):

  • United States: $270
  • Japan: $245
  • Indonesia: $210
  • India: $205
  • Turkey: $170

For updated TOEFL iBT Home Edition fees, access the ETS site.

How to Register for TOEFL iBT Home Edition

  1. Visit the ETS Registration Page
  2. Log in or create a My TOEFL Home Page account
  3. Choose TOEFL iBT Home Edition
  4. Pick a date and time
  5. Pay the test fee
  6. Download the Secure Test Browser

Need to reschedule? You can manage your registration or book TOEFL iBT Home Edition again using your account.

What Happens on TOEFL Home Test Day?

Test Duration

The TOEFL iBT Home Edition takes about 2 hours to complete. This is slightly shorter than the older version.

TOEFL Home Test Day Checklist

  • Log in 30 minutes early
  • Present your ID to the proctor
  • Show your room and whiteboard setup
  • Start the test using the Secure Browser

TOEFL Home Edition Cheating

You’ll be watched via webcam the entire time. Your behavior is monitored and if anything unusual happens, like someone entering the room, your session could be flagged or canceled.

No breaks are allowed during the exam—not even to go to the bathroom.

TOEFL iBT Home Edition Results & Validity

TOEFL Home Edition Results Time

You’ll receive your TOEFL iBT Home Edition results within 4–8 business days after testing. Log in to your My TOEFL Home Page to view your scores.

You’ll get:

  • A PDF score report
  • A full breakdown of section scores
  • The option to send your scores to institutions

You can also check your TOEFL iBT Home Edition score report for additional breakdowns.

Score Validity & Acceptance

TOEFL iBT Home Edition scores are valid for 2 years and accepted by most universities. For program-specific eligibility, check the ETS Score Acceptance Information.

Note: Some immigration programs, like Canada’s Student Direct Stream (SDS), may not accept the Home Edition.

Scoring Process

TOEFL uses a combination of AI and human raters to assess Speaking and Writing sections.

What’s a Good TOEFL Score?

A good score depends on your goals:

  • 100+ for top universities
  • 80–99 for most graduate programs
  • 60–79 for language prep or undergraduate study

Is the TOEFL Home Edition Accepted Globally

Countries That Accept TOEFL Home Edition

  • United States – Harvard, MIT, NYU
  • Canada – University of Toronto, McGill (varies by program)
  • United Kingdom – University of Oxford, University of Edinburgh
  • Australia – University of Sydney, University of Melbourne (some programs)

Visit the TOEFL Home Edition accepted countries list for more info.

Countries Where It May Not Be Accepted

Some programs do not accept the TOEFL iBT Home Edition:

  • Some German and Dutch universities
  • Canada’s SDS immigration pathway
  • Australia’s healthcare licenses and PR pathways

Always confirm with your institution or immigration authority.

University Acceptance

Not all universities accept the at-home test. Examples that do accept it:

  • Harvard
  • MIT
  • NYU
  • University of Toronto
  • University of Sydney

Some programs may not accept it for student visas—always check your school’s official guidelines.

Preparation & Final Tips for TOEFL at Home

Practice Resources for TOEFL Home Edition

If you’re preparing for TOEFL at home, make sure to complete at least one TOEFL Home Edition practice test. Use an actual timer and simulate test-day conditions.

TOEFL Home Edition Checklist

  1. Valid passport or ID
  2. Whiteboard + dry-erase marker
  3. Quiet room with visible door
  4. Secure Test Browser installed
  5. Webcam and microphone tested
  6. No paper or headphones

Final Thoughts on TOEFL at Home

The TOEFL iBT Home Edition—also known as the TOEFL test at home, TOEFL internet-based test from home, or TOEFL Home Test—offers flexibility, convenience, and wide recognition.

Need prep? Join TST Prep and gain access to expert-level TOEFL study materials.

Good luck, and happy studying!