What is the difference between TOEFL, ITP, IBT and PBT?

1. TOEFL iBT (Internet-Based Test): Mode: Delivered online via the internet. Skills Tested: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing. Score Range: 0–120 (30 points per section). Purpose: Primarily used for university admissions, student visa applications, and work opportunities in English-speaking countries. Format: Integrated tasks that may combine skills (e.g., listening and speaking or reading and writing). Test takers are required to use headphones and microphones for listening and speaking sections. Popularity: This is the most widely used and accepted version of the TOEFL globally 2. TOEFL ITP (Institutional Testing Program): Mode: Paper-based but specific to institutions (not for international admissions). Skills Tested: Listening Comprehension, Structure and Written Expression, and Reading Comprehension. Score Range: 310–677 (depending on the version used). Purpose: Used internally by universities and organizations to assess English proficiency for programs, placements, and other institutional needs. Limitations: Scores are not valid for immigration, university admissions, or external purposes. It is cheaper and more accessible than TOEFL iBT 3. TOEFL PBT (Paper-Based Test): Mode: Conducted on paper. Skills Tested: Listening, Reading, Writing (includes the TWE—Test of Written English), and Structure. Score Range: 310–677 (does not include speaking). Purpose: Used in locations where the internet infrastructure does not support the TOEFL iBT. Current Status: Gradually being phased out in favor of TOEFL iBT. Difference from ITP: TOEFL PBT scores can be used for international admissions, unlike TOEFL ITP. 4. TOEFL Essentials (New Addition): While not part of your query, it's worth noting: Mode: Online, like TOEFL iBT, but shorter (1.5 hours vs. ~3 hours for iBT). Skills Tested: Includes a mix of academic and general English. Score Range: 1–12 per section. Purpose: Less formal than TOEFL iBT but accepted by many institutions. read less