TOEFL iBT 2026 for Pakistani Students: New Format, 1–6 Score Scale and Fees
If you are planning to study abroad, the TOEFL iBT you may have heard about from friends is no longer the same test. Since January 2026, ETS has run a shorter, partly adaptive TOEFL iBT with a new 1–6 band score. Here is what Pakistani applicants should know before booking.
What changed in the TOEFL iBT
The test now takes roughly 90 minutes instead of about two hours. Reading and Listening are multi-stage adaptive, which means the difficulty of later questions adjusts to how you perform earlier. The Speaking section is much shorter and has two tasks, Listen and Repeat and Take an Interview, while Writing includes Build a Sentence, Write an Email and Write for an Academic Discussion. Reading also adds new task types such as Complete the Words and Read in Daily Life.
The new 1–6 score scale
Instead of the old 0–120 total, each section is now scored from 1 to 6 in half-point steps, and the overall score is the average of the four sections. The bands are aligned with the CEFR framework. According to published guidance, scores are reported in about 72 hours, and during a transition period (through 2028) score reports show both the new band and the legacy 0–120 equivalent. As a rough guide, a band of 4.0–4.5 corresponds to about 72–93 on the old scale and 5.0–5.5 to about 94–113.
Fees for test-takers in Pakistan
TOEFL fees depend on the test location and are paid in US dollars. Third-party fee guides list the Pakistan fee at roughly USD 230, and typical extras include rescheduling (around USD 69), late registration (around USD 49) and additional score reports (around USD 25–29 each). Your ETS account shows the exact amount at checkout, including any taxes and card charges, so always confirm there before paying.
Which scores do universities and visa offices want?
Universities set their own English requirements, and many have not yet published conversions to the new scale. Check each programme page, and ask the admissions office if an old 0–120 requirement has not been updated. For visas, immigration authorities usually accept only specific approved tests: some routes accept TOEFL and others require IELTS or PTE, so match your test to the visa route, not just the university. See our guides on IELTS fees for study visas and PTE Academic in Pakistan to compare options.
Practical steps before you book
- Confirm the accepted tests and minimum scores for your university and your destination visa.
- Check ETS for available test dates and centres in Islamabad, Lahore or Karachi, or whether the at-home option suits you.
- Practise with the new task types, especially the short, unprepared speaking interview and the adaptive Reading and Listening.
- Register early and keep your score validity (two years) in mind so your result does not expire before your visa filing.
Planning study abroad? Read our guides to the UK student visa, the US F-1 student visa and the full list of visa services.
Our Islamabad team can check your university and visa requirements and guide your documents, from test choice to application.
Test formats, fees and scores change often, and visa decisions rest with the relevant government. Always confirm details with ETS, your university and the official visa authority.