Only your ID is allowed in the testing room, so you’ll need to put your personal belongings, such as a
purse, watch, or cell phone, in either a storage space or a plastic bag under your chair (you’ll only do
this if storage space is unavailable). Sometimes, certain accessories or pieces of clothing, such as
hats, scarves, and jewellery, are not allowed in the testing room. In these cases, you must store the
item with your other belongings.
A test centre administrator (TCA) will take your photograph. This photograph will appear on your computer
at your assigned seat in the testing room and later your official TOEFL score report. The TCA will also
give you pencils and scratch paper as well as headphones and a microphone to use for the Listening,
Speaking, and Writing sections.
Once at your assigned seat, you’ll confirm your identity on your computer (your photograph should
appear on-screen) and then begin the test.
Inside the Test Center:
There will be a digital timer for each section of the test. You’ll get instructions for each
section and reminders to put on your headphones for listening- and speaking-oriented questions.
(You may also simply wear your headphones throughout the test.)
You should expect the testing room to be somewhat noisy. Since other test takers may reach the Speaking section at the same time, you’ll likely hear talking during the test.
If you have a question or problem, raise your hand, and a TCA will come over to help you.
For example, if you run out of scratch paper, you may raise your hand to ask for more. Note that
TCAs cannot answer any questions about test content.
You may use the restroom or take an unscheduled break at any time. However, your test’s clock
will continue to run while you are away. It’s better to use your mandatory 10-minute break after
Listening to go to the restroom and access any food, drinks, or medications you have. You may not
access your phone or other belongings while on break. Furthermore, you may only leave the testing
room if you have received permission from a TCA.
