Edu-leaders

The number of institutions accepting the TOEFL test to evaluate English language proficiency for non-native speakers has crossed 8,000 worldwide, says the Educational Testing Service (ETS).

For more than 45 years, TOEFL has been recognized by the most prestigious institutions around the world, including those in the U.K., Canada, Australia and the U.S., to evaluate the ability of non-native speakers to use and understand English and measure how an individual combines reading, listening, writing and speaking skills.

"We are confident that TOEFL scores provide us with a measure of language ability that we can rely upon, and accepting the test enables us to reach a wider market,” said Katherine Hind, Senior Undergraduate Admissions Manager, Newcastle University.

"TOEFL provides a comprehensive snapshot of a student's ability to succeed in an academic environment," said Dr Mark McKnew, Professor and Interim Director, Office of International Programmes, College of Business and Behavioral Sciences at Clemson University. "Clemson University relies on the TOEFL test as a critical tool for evaluating applicants from around the world."

As the number of institutions accepting the TOEFL test continues to increase, the volume of TOEFL tests administered internationally is on the rise as well. ETS reported a 10% increase in global test volumes for 2010 compared to 2009.

"Students recognize the benefits of the TOEFL test and the convenience of only having to take one English language assessment that is accepted in more than 130 countries," said David Hunt, Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of ETS's Global Division. "The test serves as an international passport offering students the opportunity to meet their educational aspirations and study at nearly any institution around the world."

The TOEFL® Go Anywhere website offers students numerous free resources, including the TOEFL Journey™ programme, to help them prepare for the test. Prospective test takers can view the video – ‘The TOEFL Test: Your Passport to the World’ for more information.