TOEFL Exam Fee 2025: Registration, Fees & Payment Methods Explained

When planning to take the TOEFL exam, one of the first things you need to understand is the exam fee for TOEFL. The TOEFL, which stands for the Test of English as a Foreign Language, is essential for students aspiring to study in English-speaking countries. The exam helps educational institutions evaluate the English proficiency of international students. However, before registering for the exam, it is crucial to understand the TOEFL examination fees.

What is the TOEFL Exam Fee?

The TOEFL exam fee varies depending on the location of the test centre and the test type. The standard fee for the TOEFL test can range between USD 200 and USD 250 (approximately ₹16,900 and ₹20,000 in India). The TOEFL exam fees in India might slightly differ due to currency conversion rates and additional service charges.

For instance, in India, the TOEFL test cost for the internet-based test (iBT) generally hovers around ₹16,900, which includes your registration fee. However, this price could fluctuate, especially when accounting for local taxes, exchange rates, or specific regional fees. Students should always check the official TOEFL website or their designated test centre for the exact fee applicable.

TOEFL Exam Types Comparison

1. TOEFL iBT (Internet-Based Test) – Primary and Most Accepted

• This is the standard and most widely accepted version of TOEFL.

• Conducted at official test centres on a computer.

• Assesses Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing.

• Accepted by over 11,500 universities, colleges, and institutions worldwide.

• Most countries, including the USA, Canada, the UK, Australia, and many European nations, prefer TOEFL iBT.

Fee Impact:
This version has the standard registration fee (e.g., ₹16,000–₹17,000 in India or $235–$260 in most countries).
All official fees published by ETS are primarily based on TOEFL iBT.

Best for:
Most test-takers choose this version.

2. TOEFL iBT Home Edition

• The format, content, and scoring are the same as TOEFL iBT.

• Taken from home, but under live human proctoring.

• Requires a strong internet connection, a quiet room, a webcam, and specific equipment.

• Accepted by most universities, but some institutions or visa authorities may not accept the Home Edition, so students must verify before booking.

Fee Impact:
The cost is typically the same as the TOEFL iBT, or slightly higher in certain regions due to the use of remote proctoring technology.

Best for:
Test-takers who cannot travel to a test centre or prefer convenience.

3. TOEFL Paper Edition (Limited Availability)

• Offered only in selected countries and limited locations.

• Conducted in two parts:

  • Reading, Listening, and Writing at the test centre (paper format).

  • Speaking at home on a computer within 3 days after the test centre portion.

• The test has the same questions and scoring as TOEFL iBT, but it is less flexible.

Fee Impact:
In some regions, the Paper Edition may be slightly more expensive due to handling and logistics, or not offered at all.

Best for:
Test-takers who prefer paper-based reading and writing, or in regions with limited internet access.

4. TOEFL Essentials (if still applicable in some regions)

• Shorter, lower-cost test.

• Not accepted by all universities.

• Less common and not a replacement for TOEFL iBT.

• This is often used only by a few institutions.

Fee Impact:
Generally cheaper than TOEFL iBT, but fewer universities accept it, so it is not a practical option for most test-takers.

TOEFL Exam Fee by Country (Approximate)

Why TOEFL Exam Fees Differ by Country?

Several factors influence the price of the TOEFL exam across regions:

1. Currency Exchange Rates
The base fee is set in USD, so local fees change with currency value.

2. Local Taxes and Regulatory Charges
Some countries include VAT/GST or test centre fees in the final cost.

3. Test Administration Costs
Operating and maintaining secure test centres may be more expensive in certain regions.

4. Demand and Availability
In high-demand regions, logistical and staffing costs can affect price.

5. Test Format Availability
In some countries, only specific versions (e.g., Paper Edition or Home Edition) are offered, which may change the cost slightly.

Complete TOEFL Cost Breakdown

What’s Included in the TOEFL Exam Fee?

The standard TOEFL test fee covers the following:

1. Registration Fee: This includes the cost of taking the TOEFL exam itself.
   
   
2. Score Reporting: The fee covers sending TOEFL scores to up to four universities or institutions. If you need to send scores to more than four institutions, an additional fee will apply.
   
   
3. Access to TOEFL Preparation Materials: Some fees might include access to limited test prep materials.

Additional Costs You Should Be Aware Of:

While the TOEFL exam price generally covers basic services, there are several additional charges that candidates may incur. These additional costs can include:

1. TOEFL Rescheduling Fee

If you cannot make the test on the scheduled date, you have the option to reschedule. The TOEFL reschedule policy allows you to make changes to your exam date up to four days before your scheduled test. However, no rescheduling is allowed within the last four days before the test. The TOEFL reschedule charges typically range from ₹4,920 to ₹8,200, depending on when you request the change.

2. TOEFL Cancellation Fee

The TOEFL cancellation charges are non-refundable if you decide not to attend the exam. However, if you cancel before the test day, you may be eligible for a partial refund under the TOEFL cancellation refund policy.

3. Additional Score Reports

Sending TOEFL scores to institutions beyond the initial four incurs an additional cost. Each additional score report costs approximately USD 20. These extra reports are useful if you wish to send your scores to more than four universities.

4. Late Registration Fees

If you miss the standard registration deadline, you can still register for the TOEFL, but it will cost you more. The late registration fee is an additional USD 40 to USD 50. Late registrations must be done online and are only allowed up to two days before the organisation date.

Payment Methods for TOEFL Exam Fees

Paying the TOEFL test fee is relatively simple. ETS, the organisation responsible for the TOEFL exam, provides several payment methods for candidates across the globe.

• Credit/Debit Cards: Major international cards like Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are accepted.
  
  
• PayPal: You can use PayPal to make payments directly from your PayPal account.
  
  
• Bank Transfer: In some countries, a direct bank transfer option is available.
  
  
• Checks and Money Orders: These are accepted in certain locations, although this is becoming less common.

Be sure to check the official website of EduVouchers for its current and available payment options in your country.

Maximise your TOEFL savings: Take advantage of EduVouchers' exclusive TOEFL discount code and save up to 15% on your exam fee.

TOEFL Fees for Specific Services

1. TOEFL Home Edition: If you plan to take the TOEFL from home, the TOEFL Home Edition test is similar to the regular test. The price, however, may vary depending on your country’s regulations and fees. The TOEFL test price for the home edition is typically aligned with standard iBT costs, but check with the official website for exact fees in your location.
   
   
2. TOEFL Special Requests: If you require special accommodations during the test, such as extended time for the exam, there may be additional processing fees. These fees are typically charged to cover the extra effort required to tailor arrangements to your specific needs.

How to Pay the TOEFL Exam Fee

Most test-takers pay for TOEFL through the official ETS website. The process is straightforward, but selecting the right options can help you avoid additional charges.

Step 1: Create or log in to your ETS account
Visit ets.org/toefl and sign in. If you’re a new user, create an account with your personal details exactly as they appear on your passport.

Step 2: Choose your test and location
Select the TOEFL exam type (iBT or Home Edition), then choose your country, city, and preferred test centre or online option.

Step 3: Pick your test date and time
Choose an available slot that fits your schedule. Booking early gives more options and avoids late fees.

Step 4: Confirm personal and ID details
Your name must match your passport exactly. Incorrect details can lead to cancellation without a refund.

Step 5: Apply voucher or promo code (if available). You will see a field to enter a voucher or discount code.
If you have purchased a voucher from an authorised partner, enter the code to reduce or fully cover the fee.

Step 6: Select your payment method
ETS accepts:

• Credit or debit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, JCB)

• PayPal

• ETS Voucher

• E-check or bank transfer (in select countries)

Step 7: Review and pay
Check all details, make payment, and submit.

Step 8: Get confirmation
You will receive a confirmation email with your test details, reporting time, and receipt.

TOEFL Fee Waivers, Discounts & Financial Assistance

While the TOEFL is a paid exam, some students may qualify for reduced fees or financial support.

1. TOEFL Fee Reduction Service (Official ETS Program)

• Available only in select countries (mostly the United States).

• Reduces the exam fee by 50%.

• Requires proof of financial need through a school or counsellor.

2. University or Government-based Fee Waivers

• Some universities or scholarship programs reimburse or waive TOEFL fees for eligible applicants.

• This information is often provided to students applying through specific programs or partner institutions.

• Candidates must apply through the institution.

3. Scholarship-based Exam Reimbursement

• Certain scholarships (especially international study grants) cover the cost of English exams.

• Reimbursement is processed after submission of proof (fee receipt or score report).

4. Country-specific Assistance Programs

• Some governments or educational agencies sponsor students to take the TOEFL.

• The availability of these programs varies by region.

How to Save Money on the TOEFL Exam 

TOEFL can become expensive if you add late fees, rescheduling charges, or extra score reports. The following strategies help you reduce total cost:

1. Register early
Avoid the late registration fee (approx. $40) by booking at least one day before the test.

2. Plan your test date carefully
Rescheduling costs $60. Choose a realistic date so you don’t have to change it.

3. Use the 4 free score reports wisely
You can send your scores to four universities for free when you register.
Any additional score report costs $20 per institution—plan to avoid extra charges.

4. Take official mock tests before booking
Practising in advance reduces the need for multiple attempts, thereby avoiding the requirement to pay the full registration fee again.

5. Watch for vouchers, promo codes, or partner discounts
Some authorised platforms or education partners occasionally offer TOEFL vouchers or fee waivers.
ETS also runs promotions in selected regions from time to time.

6. Avoid payment mistakes
A failed or reversed payment may incur an additional $20 returned payment fee; ensure your card or account has sufficient balance.

Conclusion

The cost of the TOEFL test itself can be fairly high when you include all the possible expenses, such as the TOEFL cancellation fee, reschedule fees, and extra score report fees. Still, knowing them in advance will enable you to plan better for the test. Be sure to keep track of the TOEFL cancellation charges, reschedule policy, and other fees to avoid surprises.

Related Article:

• TOEFL Exam Syllabus
• TOEFL Exam Pattern
• TOEFL Accepting Countries and Universities
• TOEFL Preparation Guide