TOEFL Eligibility Criteria 2026: Age Limit, Qualification & Score Required

In the new TOEFL format introduced in 2026, the eligibility criteria remain unchanged. The TOEFL continues to have simple and flexible eligibility requirements, allowing students from diverse academic backgrounds to apply. This guide explains the key eligibility conditions you need to meet to register for the TOEFL exam.

Key Highlights:

• The TOEFL exam has no age restrictions, allowing candidates of any age to take the test.
• No educational qualifications are required to appear for the TOEFL, and there is no restriction on academic background.
• Candidates can take the TOEFL multiple times, with a mandatory 3-day gap between consecutive test attempts.
• Testing accommodations for TOEFL candidates with disabilities or health-related needs are also available. 
• The TOEFL has no nationality or citizenship limitations, making it accessible to test-takers worldwide.

TOEFL Eligibility Criteria 2026

The TOEFL iBT format remains accessible, flexible, and inclusive, making it suitable for anyone required to prove their English proficiency for global opportunities. There are no specific eligibility criteria set by ETS for the TOEFL Exam. 

To appear for the TOEFL exam in 2026, you must confirm the following things:

1. Minimum Age Limit

There is no official age limit for the TOEFL exam. However, it is generally taken by students aged 16 and above.

2. Educational Qualification

Candidates should have completed at least a high school-level education (10+2) or equivalent to qualify for the test.

3. Score Requirements

TOEFL does not have a minimum score requirement. It may depend on the institution or organization as applied.

4. Citizenship or Nationality

The TOEFL is open to candidates from all nationalities, as long as they have a valid government-issued ID.

5. Language

It doesn't matter which language you speak; the exam is designed for non-English speakers.

Documents Required for the TOEFL Exam

To register and appear for the TOEFL exam in 2026, you need to have the following documents ready:

• Valid ID Proof: A government-issued identification document, such as a passport, is mandatory. The ID must be valid, original, and not expired.
• TOEFL Registration Confirmation: Keep a printout or digital copy of your registration confirmation for verification at the test centre.
• Passport-Sized Photograph: While not always required, some test centres may ask for recent passport-size photographs.
• Payment Receipt (Additional): You may also carry proof of payment for your exam registration fee as a backup.

Ensure all documents are accurate and match the information provided during registration to avoid any discrepancies on the test day, and you are all set!

Note: Candidates aged 16 or younger should be accompanied by their parents who will be required to complete and sign a release form at the test centre. Both the minor candidate and the parent must present a valid, acceptable ID, or you will not be able to take the test.

TOEFL Eligibility Criteria for Home Edition

The TOEFL iBT Home Edition is a proctored, monitored version of the test designed to be taken from the comfort of your home. To ensure a smooth experience, candidates must meet the following eligibility and setup requirements before appearing for the exam:

1. Age and Education: There is no specific age limit, but it is recommended for candidates aged 16 and above with at least a high school-level education (i.e 10+2).
2. System Requirements: Download and install the ProctorU® Guardian Browser for test-day communication with the proctor.
3. Equipment Requirements:
   • Functional Desktop PC or Laptop: Tablets and mobile devices are not recommended.
   • Speakers: For listening tests, internal or external speakers and microphones are recommended. Avoid using headsets or earphones.
   • Webcam: Built-in or external webcam that can be moved to show a 360-degree view of the room and workspace.
   • Good Internet Connection.
4. Environment and Testing Space:
   • Avoid giving the test in public spaces like parks, cafes, or restaurants.
   • Give the test in a private room and keep doors closed. Position your table and chair so the door is visible on camera.
   • Food, drinks, and unauthorized materials like cell phones and notes are not permitted.
   • Your ears and face must remain visible throughout the test. Religious headwear is allowed if ears remain uncovered.
   • Dress appropriately as your photo will be shared with institutions receiving your scores.
5. For Note-Taking: Note-taking on paper is prohibited for security reasons. You may use: A small desktop whiteboard or a sheet of paper inside a transparent sheet protector with an erasable marker. All notes must be erased in front of the proctor at the end of the test.

For a more detailed explanation of system requirements and other guidelines, you can also visit the ETS official website to ensure you meet all prerequisites for the TOEFL iBT Home Edition.

TOEFL Eligibility for Retaking the Test

ETS allows candidates to retake the TOEFL exam as many times as they like, but remember that you can't take it more than once within 3 days. If you're not satisfied with your first attempt, you can retake the exam to improve your score.

Each re-attempt requires a new registration and payment of the exam fee; however, use the same credentials as your previous registration to maintain consistency.

TOEFL Eligibility Criteria for Disabled Candidates

ETS provides accommodations to ensure that candidates with disabilities or health-related needs have equal access to the TOEFL exam. For the academic year 2026-26, here are the key details you need to know about their eligibility criteria in 2026:

• General Eligibility: There are no specific restrictions for disabled candidates regarding age or educational qualifications to take the TOEFL exam. The usual eligibility criteria apply to all candidates.
• Accommodations Available: ETS offers a variety of accommodations for candidates with disabilities or health-related needs, including technical accommodations, large print, extended time, and breaks. Briefly, it includes the following facilities:
  • Extended testing time with additional breaks.
  • Use of assistive technology like screen magnification or screen readers.
  • Braille, audio or large print versions of test materials.
  • Listening and Speaking sessions are omitted.
  • Use of a specialised reader, writer or sign language interpreter.
  • Assistive listening devices or written instructions.
• How to Apply for Accommodations:
  • Candidates must submit an accommodation request through their registered ETS account.
  • Supporting documentation of the disability or health condition must be provided as part of the application process.
  • Approval for accommodations can take up to 4-6 weeks, so it's recommended to apply well in advance of the intended test date.
• Accessible Testing Locations: ETS ensures that testing centres with accommodations are equipped to support candidates with disabilities. The TOEFL Home Edition also allows for accommodations for eligible candidates.

From the Desk of Yocket

The first step for any exam preparation is understanding the basics, which will help you with everything else. This eligibility guide consolidates all the information you need in one place, ensuring you stay focused on your preparation.

At Yocket Prep, we understand the importance of excelling in the TOEFL exam to help you pursue your dreams of studying abroad. Hence, we are here to guide you through every step of the process and help you stay ahead of the game with a treasure trove of free resources, expert advice, and valuable insights designed to fuel your success.