TOEFL iBT test has completely new scoring scale, highest score is 6 points

(Dan Tri) - From January 2026, the TOEFL iBT test will use a 1-6 scale instead of the current 0-120 scale.

TheEducational Testing Service (ETS) has just updated the test model, content and scoring scale of the TOEFL iBT test.

Accordingly, from January 2026, the TOEFL test will apply the Adaptive Testing model. With this model, the test will adjust the question set according to the actual ability of the candidate during the Reading and Listening test.

This model helps to assess more closely how English is used in an academic environment, through tasks that simulate activities such as group discussions, presenting opinions and processing academic information.

The exam content has been refreshed with modern, international topics that are more accessible to learners from all cultural backgrounds.

Candidates taking the 10th grade exam in Ho Chi Minh City (Photo: Trinh Nguyen).

Along with the change in test questions, the TOEFL iBT test score scale will also change from January 21, 2026.

Specifically, the new scale ranges from 1 to 6, corresponding to the 6 levels of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages ​​(CEFR).

To facilitate a smooth transition, for two years beginning January 21, 2026, TOEFL iBT score reports will simultaneously display both the 1-6 scale and the 0-120 scale.

After this time, score reports will only use the 1-6 scale.

TOEFL iBT is a test designed and developed by the Educational Testing Service (ETS). The test is designed specifically for people who use English as a foreign language to assess their ability to use English comprehensively in 4 skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing in an academic environment.

In Vietnam, the test is authorized to be implemented by IIG Vietnam - National Representative of ETS.

Source: https://dantri.com.vn/giao-duc/bai-thi-toefl-ibt-doi-thang-diem-moi-hoan-toan-cao-nhat-6-diem-20250605145923202.htm