Should your child take the TOEFL or TOEFL Jr.?

The TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) and the TOEFL Jr. (Test of English as a Foreign Language for Young Students) are two popular English proficiency tests taken by non-native English speakers. Both tests are used by schools, universities and colleges worldwide to assess the English language skills of international students. But, which test is right for your child? Let’s explore the key differences between the two.

TOEFL Jr.

The test measures a child's ability to read, listen, and speak in English. According to ETS, TOEFL Jr. is intended for students ages 11+, the TOEFL Junior tests are an objective and reliable measure of students’ English-language proficiency. For more information on TOEFL Junior tests, click here. In the context of K-12 admissions, it is mostly used in the context of junior boarding school admissions. We almost never see it as an acceptable test for high school boarding schools admitting international students.

The TOEFL iBT

The TOEFL test measures English skills students must use in an English-speaking academic environment, including reading, listening, speaking, and writing. It is mainly used for Higher Education/University admissions (ages 16+). For more information on the TOEFL IBT test, click here. While it is intended for students 16+, the challenge is that many boarding schools also expect international students to sit the TOEFL, and that may mean the student is only 12 or 13 years old upon taking the test.

Other options

The Duolingo English Test is an online language proficiency test that assesses an individual's English language skills. It measures reading, writing, speaking, and listening abilities in real-time, providing a comprehensive evaluation of English proficiency. The test is designed to be quick and convenient, taking only about an hour to complete, and is accessible from anywhere with an internet connection.

the bottom line

It’s most important to check which tests are required or suggested by the schools that your child is applying to. Have questions? Feel free to reach out!