Taking the test at home or at a centre
Taking the TOEFL at home or at a test centre: equipment, room rules, check-in and how to choose.
In this lesson you will
- Compare home and centre testing
- Prepare equipment and room for a home test
- Know typical rules and check-in steps
Learn
TOEFL iBT is offered at test centres and, in many places, at home with online proctoring. Availability varies — check ets.org.
Home test: a suitable computer, reliable internet, webcam, microphone and speaker; a private, quiet room; a clear desk. You typically run an equipment check and show your room and ID to a proctor.
Typical rules: no other people in the room, no phones or notes (except permitted note-taking materials), stay visible on camera. Rules are set by ETS and must be followed exactly.
Choosing: a centre removes technical worries; home saves travel and may offer more dates. Choose what lets you perform calmly — and confirm that your university accepts the format.
Examples
- Before a home test: run the official equipment check days in advance.
- Room: quiet, door closed, desk clear, good lighting.
- Centre: arrive early with the ID you registered with.
Vocabulary
proctor
a person who supervises an exam
equipment check
a test of your computer, camera and microphone
private
without other people
reliable
working consistently
availability
whether something can be booked
Practice
A person who supervises an online exam is a…
Speaking
Explain in 45 seconds whether you would take the test at home or at a centre, and why.
Lesson quiz
Other people may be in the room during a home test.
Review
Key points
- Home vs centre.
- Equipment and room.
- Follow ETS rules.
- Confirm acceptance.
What you learned
- ✓ I can choose a test format.
- ✓ I know how to prepare a home test.
- ✓ I know typical rules.