TOEFL Exam Registration Guide: Step-by-Step Process
The TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is one of the most widely accepted English proficiency exams, recognized by over 11,500 institutions across 160+ countries, including the USA, UK, Canada, and Australia. The TOEFL iBT test is conducted more than 60 times a year and is now available in both test center and home editions.
The TOEFL exam registration process is simple and can be completed online through the official ETS website. The current registration fee is approximately $205 (INR 16,900), varying slightly by location. Early booking is highly recommended as test slots fill quickly, especially for popular months like July and August.
Whether you are aiming for a scholarship or university admission, securing your TOEFL test date early ensures smoother application planning. Let’s walk you through the full TOEFL registration process.
TOEFL Eligibility Criteria – Not sure if you can take the TOEFL? Here's who’s eligible to register.
TOEFL Exam Pattern – Before booking your test, take a look at how it’s structured.
How to Register for TOEFL Exam
The TOEFL registration process designed by ETS is user-friendly, ensuring that your focus remains on preparing for the exam. By following the simple steps outlined below, you'll be well on your way to securing your spot in the TOEFL exam.
STEP 1: Create an ETS Account
To start, head to the official ETS TOEFL website and create an account. This account will serve as your portal for all things TOEFL-related, from registration to accessing your scores. It's important to provide accurate personal information to avoid any issues down the line.
STEP 2: Choose Your Test Location and Date
Once your account is set up, you'll need to select the TOEFL test date and test centres that work for you. It's highly recommended to register early as seats at popular test centres fill up quickly. Make sure you choose a date that gives you ample time to prepare, but also consider how long it might take to receive your scores if you're applying to universities with specific deadlines.
Remember, smartness is the key.
STEP 3: Complete the Registration Form
Fill out the registration form with the required details. This will include your personal information, identification details (like your passport number, if required), and test preferences. Double-check everything before submitting to ensure accuracy.
STEP 4: Pay the Exam Fee
To finalize your registration, you'll need to pay the exam fee. The TOEFL test fee can vary depending on your test location, so be sure to review the payment details on the ETS website. It's a good idea to keep a record of the transaction for your reference.
STEP 5: Prepare for Your Test Day
After registration, you'll receive a confirmation email with your test date, location, and other important information. Make sure to print your admission ticket, as you'll need it to enter the test centre. Prepare any other documents (like a valid ID) that you may need on the test day. It's also helpful to familiarize yourself with the test centre's rules and policies to avoid surprises.
Pro Tip: Register Early!
Since thousands of candidates register for the TOEFL exam each year, it's wise to sign up as early as possible. Doing so will increase your chances of securing your preferred test centre and date, giving you peace of mind as you focus on your preparations.
Preparing for the TOEFL? Book a call with Abrosity for proven tips and support at every step!
Things Indian Students Usually Miss During TOEFL Exam Registration
What’s Often Missed | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
Ignoring score report section | You miss the chance to send scores to 4 universities for free |
Not checking Home Edition system requirements | The test may not run properly on your device, leading to disqualification |
Entering nickname or initials instead of full name | Mismatch with passport may block you from entering the exam hall |
Registering with a personal email that’s rarely used | You may miss important ETS alerts or admit card links |
Assuming you’ll get a slot anytime | Test centers fill quickly during peak months (Sep–Jan) |
Skipping the test format comparison | You may choose the wrong format without realizing your university doesn't accept it |
Quick Reminder: Always register using a valid passport, even if you’re taking the Home Edition from home. This is mandatory in India.
TOEFL Registration: Home Edition
The TOEFL iBT Home Edition allows you to take the test from home while maintaining the same test format and security standards. Here is the step-by-step guide for registration and to appear in TOEFL Home Edition:
STEP 1: Create an ETS account on the ETS TOEFL website.
STEP 2: Select "TOEFL iBT Home Edition" and choose your test date.
STEP 3: Pay the registration fee via credit/debit card, PayPal, or e-check.
STEP 4: Download & test the ETS Secure Browser for compatibility.
STEP 5: Log in 30 minutes before the test and complete ID verification with a proctor.
STEP 6: Take the TOEFL test (Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing).
STEP 7: Receive your scores online within 6-10 days and send them to universities.
Guidelines for TOEFL Home Edition:
System Requirements: A Windows or macOS computer/laptop with a stable internet connection, ETS Secure Test Browser, and a functional webcam and microphone. Tablets and mobile devices are not allowed.
Proctoring: The test is monitored live by a proctor via AI-enabled technology to ensure integrity.
Environment Rules: A private, quiet room with a clear desk is mandatory.
Other Methods to Register for the TOEFL Exam
Apart from online registration through the ETS website, there are alternative methods to register for the TOEFL exam:
Register by Phone
Call your Regional Registration Center (RRC) or ETS directly.
Provide your name, ID details, preferred test date, and payment information.
Register at least 2 days before your test date.
Debit/credit card or e-checks are acceptable (regional options may vary).
Register by Mail
Download and complete the TOEFL Registration Form from the ETS website.
Mail the completed form along with payment details to the address mentioned in the form.
Ensure your form reaches ETS at least 4 weeks before your test date.
Debit/credit card, money order, or checks payable to ETS.
Register Through an Authorized Test Center
Visit an official test centre and register in person.
Provide a valid ID and payment.
Get immediate assistance with slot selection and payment.
How Do We Register for TOEFL by Courier?
If you prefer registering for the TOEFL exam by courier, here's how you can do it step by step:
Step 1: Visit the ETS website and download the TOEFL iBT Registration Form.
Step 2: Complete all sections of the form carefully and ensure your details match the ID you will use on test day.
Step 3: Payment can be made via credit card, money order, or a demand draft.
Step 4: Mail the completed form and payment (if applicable) to the address specified in the registration form. Use a reliable courier service to ensure timely delivery.
Step 5: ETS will process your application upon receipt. Once your registration is confirmed, you'll receive an email with your test date and other details.
Important Deadlines
The completed form and payment must reach ETS at least 4 weeks before your preferred test date. If you don't receive a confirmation email within 7-10 days, contact ETS directly.
What You Need Before Starting TOEFL Registration
Before you begin, make sure you have everything ready to complete the process in one go. Most issues during TOEFL exam registration happen due to incomplete or incorrect information.
Checklist: What to Keep Ready
Requirement | Why It’s Important |
|---|---|
Valid passport | This is the only accepted ID in India. Name must match exactly. |
Email and phone number | Needed to receive updates, score info, and your admission ticket |
Preferred test format | Choose between iBT (test center) or Home Edition (system check required) |
Test date and location | Slots fill quickly—especially between September and January |
Payment method | You’ll need an international debit/credit card or PayPal |
For Home Edition test-takers: Run the ETS Secure Test Browser in advance. You’ll also need a quiet room, webcam, and stable internet.
TOEFL Registration Fees
The TOEFL registration fee in India is ₹16,900 for 2025, based on the current exchange rate. This applies to both the TOEFL iBT test and the TOEFL iBT Home Edition.
Additional Costs:
Late Registration Fee: ₹3,300 (approx.).
Rescheduling Fee: ₹5,000 (approx.).
Score Report Fee: ₹1,700 (per additional report sent to institutions).
Payment options include debit/credit cards, net banking, or other methods listed on the ETS website. It's recommended to confirm the exact fee in INR at the time of registration, as it depends on currency exchange rates.
Mode of Payment for TOEFL Exam Registration
To register for the TOEFL exam in India, you can use the following payment methods:
Credit/Debit Cards: Accepted cards include Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover.
Net Banking: Use your bank's online banking services to complete the payment securely.
E-Checks: Pay directly using an electronic check drawn on a U.S. bank account.
PayPal: Make payments through a verified PayPal account.
Demand Draft: For offline registration, you can use a demand draft payable to "ETS-TOEFL" in U.S. dollars, issued by a recognized bank.
These payment methods ensure flexibility for both online and offline registrations. Always verify the available options on the ETS website before making a payment.
TOEFL Registration for Home Edition vs Test Center
ETS offers two ways to take the TOEFL exam: at a test center or from home. You’ll need to choose the format during TOEFL exam registration, and the process slightly differs based on your choice.
Home Edition vs Test Center – What’s Different?
Step | Test Center (TOEFL iBT) | Home Edition |
|---|---|---|
Availability in India | Available in major cities year-round | Available 24/7 – choose from open time slots |
Device/System Check | Not required | Must pass ETS browser check + ProctorU system check |
Testing Environment | Quiet, official test center | Private room with no interruptions |
Monitoring | In-person invigilator | Live remote proctor via webcam |
Rescheduling & Support | Through ETS account or phone | ETS + ProctorU (for technical issues) |
Internet Requirement | Not needed | Must have stable, fast internet (wired preferred) |
Things to Know Before Choosing Home Edition
Only choose this if you have a quiet room, desktop/laptop, webcam, and reliable internet
You must download ETS’s Secure Test Browser and pass a ProctorU tech check
Make sure your university accepts TOEFL Home Edition—some may prefer in-center results
Home Edition is a good option if you live far from a test center or need more flexible scheduling—but it comes with stricter technical requirements.
How to Reschedule or Cancel Your TOEFL Test
Sometimes plans change—whether due to travel, health, or just needing more prep time. ETS allows you to reschedule or cancel your TOEFL exam, but you must do it at least 4 full days before your test date to avoid losing your fee.
You can’t cancel or reschedule by email, regular mail, or directly at the test center. The only valid way to do it is through your ETS account at www.ets.org/mytoefl.
TOEFL Rescheduling & Cancellation Policy
Action | Deadline | Refund / Fee |
|---|---|---|
Reschedule your test | At least 4 full days before test date | ₹5,700 (approx. $69) rescheduling fee applies |
Cancel your test | At least 4 full days before test date | 50% refund of test fee |
Missed the deadline | Less than 4 days before test | No refund; full fee forfeited |
No-show on test day | Did not cancel and didn’t appear | No refund; must register and pay again |
Example: If your test is on Saturday, you must cancel or reschedule by Tuesday (same time zone).
Refund Process
You’ll get 50% of the test fee back if you cancel within the deadline
Refund is processed to the original payment method (credit card, PayPal, etc.)
No cash refunds are given
Refunds are not applicable if:
You didn’t follow proper registration instructions
You failed to show valid ID at the test center
Tip: Always double-check your ID, test format, and date before the 4-day mark. You can log in anytime to change your booking from your ETS dashboard.
What to Do After You’ve Registered
Once your TOEFL exam registration is complete, your actual test prep begins. This phase is just as important as registering—because the right start saves you from test-day confusion and missed deadlines.
Post-Registration Checklist
Action | What to Do |
|---|---|
Check your confirmation | Log into your ETS account and download your admission ticket |
Set up a test-day folder | Keep your passport, ETS emails, and printout (for test center) together |
System check (Home Edition) | Install ETS Secure Test Browser and complete the ProctorU equipment check |
Mark important dates | Add your test date, score release window, and rescheduling deadline to calendar |
Plan your study schedule | Build a week-wise prep plan using official resources and mocks |
