The TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) has long been a globally recognized standard for assessing academic English proficiency, accepted by over 11,000 educational institutions worldwide. Given its importance, any updates to the test format or registration process always draw significant attention, especially from students and parents actively engaged in TOEFL preparation. After the 2023 reform, which shortened the exam duration, experts are now anticipating further positive changes in 2025 to enhance the test-taking experience and improve the accuracy of language assessment.

What Potential Changes Can We Expect for the TOEFL Exam in 2025?

1. A Brief Look Back: Changes Since 2023

The most notable shift came in 2023, when the total TOEFL test time was reduced to under two hours, compared to the previous three hours. This update focused on:

• Shorter Reading and Listening sections

• Streamlined Writing tasks (including the new Writing for Academic Discussion task)

• A simpler and faster registration process

These adjustments aimed to reduce exam fatigue while still maintaining high standards of academic English evaluation.

2. What Might Change in 2025?

While ETS has not officially confirmed any new changes, a few reliable forecasts and leaks have sparked curiosity:

• Shorter Speaking Section: Rumors suggest the Speaking test could become more concise, focusing more on spontaneous responses to real-life academic situations.

• More Detailed Score Reports: The possibility of more specific score breakdowns (especially in Speaking and Writing) would help test-takers better understand their strengths and areas for improvement.

• Smarter Registration Process: Technology upgrades may make the registration process even smoother, with more flexible options for test rescheduling or ID verification.

• AI Integration for Feedback: There's increasing talk about artificial intelligence being used to give faster, more detailed feedback in Writing and Speaking, making TOEFL preparation more focused and effective.

These are only predictions, but they are grounded in ETS’s direction in recent years, as the organization continues to modernize the exam to match global trends in education and testing.

3. Why These Changes Matter for Test-Takers

For students planning to take the TOEFL in the near future, staying updated on potential changes is crucial. Not only can these updates impact test strategy and time management, but they also influence how learners practice English in preparation for real-life academic environments.

Moreover, test-takers with strong TOEFL preparation can better adapt to the format and leverage potential updates to their advantage—especially if the test becomes more skill-focused and less time-consuming.

4. What You Can Do Now

• Follow reliable sources for official updates from ETS.

• Start preparing early to build a strong foundation in all four language skills.

• Simulate real test conditions using the latest practice tests.

• Focus on both TOEFL preparation and everyday opportunities to practice English—in reading, writing, listening, and speaking.

Ready to Prepare for the Future TOEFL?

Join a professional TOEFL preparation course at eClass—a trusted center offering personalized programs both online and offline. At eClass, you’ll experience:

• A customized learning path tailored to your strengths and weaknesses

• Expert teachers and updated practice materials

• A dynamic and motivating environment that inspires you to master English

Whether you’re starting from the basics or aiming for a high score, eClass is here to help you confidently conquer the TOEFL and achieve your academic goals.

Contact eClass today to explore your TOEFL learning journey!

Contact Information

TRI LINH TRADING AND SERVICE CO., LTD

Business Registration Address: 1116A Quang Trung, Ward 8, Go Vap District, Ho Chi Minh City

Office Address: 438 Dien Bien Phu, Ward 10, District 10, Ho Chi Minh City

Phone: 08 9919 6162

Email: info@eclass.edu.vn