TOEIC® test questions are based on real-life work settings in an international environment (meetings, travel, telephone conversations, etc). The TOEIC® paper and pencil test consists of 200 multiple-choice questions, divided into 2 separately timed sections:

• Listening comprehension – questions based on a variety of recorded statements, questions, and short conversations in English.
  
• Reading – questions based on a variety of materials to be read.

The test lasts approximately 2.5 hours

See examples of questions  that could appear in a TOEIC® test. 

Scores on the TOEIC® test are determined by the number of correct answers on each section, which is then converted into a scale score. Test takers are awarded separate marks for the written and oral comprehension sections, on a scale ranging from 5 to 495 points. The total score possible is hence between 10 and 990 points. ETS statistical procedures used to convert scores to a common scale ensure that similar TOEIC® scores indicate similar levels of English proficiency.

TOEIC certificates  are then awarded to candidates based on their scores. ETS also provides test takers with a can-do table  that can be included with their CV when communicating TOEIC® scores. This grid presents possible scores and the corresponding English skills associated with each; in other words, a picture of what the individual can and cannot do.

The Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR), published in 2001, sets clear standards for evaluating outcomes in an internationally comparable manner. It describes both knowledge and skills in positive “can-do” statements. ETS has mapped TOEIC® scores to the CEF to provide a comparable and standard assessment. Institutions, companies and learners using the CEFR as a reference point can hence compare performance on TOEIC® tests to other tests that have also been mapped to the CEFR.

Provision for test takers with disabilities

ETS Europe can make provisions for:

• Extended testing time
  
• Writer/recorder of answers
  
• Test reader
  
• Alternate test formats:
  
• Audio recording
  
• Braille
  
• Large print
• Listening Comprehension section omitted (for deaf or hard-of-hearing applicants only)

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