History of TOEFL and the Importance of Typing Skills

By Theodore West Published on

Before diving into TOEFL studies, let's take a quick look at the history of the test. How did previous generations take the TOEFL to achieve their study abroad dreams? Let's go through it in chronological order.

TOEFL logo displayed on a computer screen
TOEFL logo displayed on a computer screen
1. Origins (1960s)

The TOEFL, or Test of English as a Foreign Language, was first created in 1964. U.S. universities needed a standardized way to measure the English ability of international students. The test was developed by the Educational Testing Service (ETS), based on research from the Center for Applied Linguistics. The first TOEFL test was administered that same year.

2. The Paper-Based Test (PBT: 1964-1998)
  • The original format was paper-and-pencil, with multiple-choice questions.
  • It tested Listening, Structure (Grammar), and Reading.
  • The maximum score was 677 points.
  • This version was used worldwide for more than 30 years.
3. The Computer-Based Test (CBT: 1998-2005)
  • In 1998, TOEFL switched to a computer-based format.
  • The Writing section was added, replacing the old grammar section.
  • The maximum score became 300 points.
  • The format was more interactive and introduced typing for essays.
4. The Internet-Based Test (iBT: 2005-Present)
  • In 2005, ETS launched the TOEFL iBT (Internet-Based Test).
  • It measures four skills: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing.
  • The total score is 120 points (30 per section).
  • It's taken online at official test centers around the world.
5. Recent Updates (2020s-Present)
  • 2020: Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, ETS introduced the TOEFL iBT Home Edition, allowing students to take the test at home.
  • 2023: Test time was reduced from 3 hours to about 2 hours, making it shorter and more user-friendly.
  • 2025: The TOEFL iBT continues to evolve with AI-assisted scoring and is accepted by over 12,000 institutions in 160+ countries.

The TOEFL started with a simple goal: to improve my score. If you have ever taken the test, you probably know that typing speed is also an essential skill. This blog helps me practice my keyboard typing while sharing my learning journey.

As you may know, the TOEFL requires a solid understanding of academic vocabulary. It is often considered the first gateway to studying at universities in the United States.

However, this blog is not mainly focused on studying abroad. Instead, I view TOEFL preparation as a way to develop the ability to understand academic texts, which also helps broaden my perspectives across different fields. Moreover, the skills gained through TOEFL study can be applied to discussions and general communication.

Therefore, this blog aims to enhance academic awareness, improve communication skills, and strengthen typing proficiency. Many people still overlook the importance of keyboard typing, but I believe it is a fundamental skill in today's digital world.

Season:

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