TOEFL Home Edition India 2026: How to Take TOEFL from Home

Can you take TOEFL from home in India? Absolutely. The TOEFL Home Edition lets you take the exact same new-format TOEFL iBT from your personal computer, monitored by a live human proctor via webcam. The fee is the same (₹16,900), the format is identical to the test-centre version, scores are reported identically, and every university that accepts TOEFL accepts the Home Edition — there is no difference on your score report. For Indian students in Tier 2/3 cities, students with mobility issues, or anyone who simply prefers their own environment, the Home Edition is a game-changer. This guide from EEC's TOEFL experts covers everything you need to know about the TOEFL Home Edition in India in 2026.

What Is the TOEFL Home Edition?

The TOEFL Home Edition is the at-home version of the TOEFL iBT, introduced by ETS during the COVID-19 pandemic and retained permanently due to its popularity. It uses the same test content, the same 1-6 band scoring scale, and the same scoring algorithms as the test-centre version. The only difference is that you take it on your own computer in a private room, monitored by a live proctor from ETS's partner ProctorU through your webcam and microphone. The test takes approximately 2 hours — identical to the new test-centre format.

Universities do not see whether you took the test at a centre or at home — your score report is identical. This has been confirmed by ETS and is accepted by all 12,000+ TOEFL-accepting institutions worldwide, including all US universities, Canadian universities, and German universities. If you prefer an entirely online test with even simpler logistics, see our TOEFL vs Duolingo English Test comparison to evaluate which at-home option suits your needs.

System Requirements for TOEFL Home Edition

Run the ETS equipment check (available on the ETS website) at least 24 hours before your test. This checks your internet speed, webcam, microphone, and browser compatibility. If anything fails, you have time to fix it. Common issues include slow internet, outdated operating systems, and VPN software that interferes with the secure browser. See complete preparation tips.

Room Setup & Environment Rules

Your testing room must be a private, enclosed space — ideally a bedroom or study with a door that can be closed. No other person may be in the room during the test. Your desk must be clear of all materials except your computer, a whiteboard with erasable marker (no paper or notebooks), and a clear water bottle. The proctor will ask you to do a 360-degree room scan with your webcam at the start of the test, so remove any notes, books, posters with text, or secondary devices from visible range.

Your ears must be visible at all times — no earphones, earbuds, headphones, hats, or head coverings (religious head coverings are permitted). Your face must remain visible to the webcam throughout the test. You cannot leave the room during the test, and there is no break between sections (unlike some test-centre policies). Make sure to use the bathroom before starting.

Live Proctor: How It Works

When you start the TOEFL Home Edition, you connect to a live human proctor from ProctorU (ETS's proctoring partner). The proctor verifies your identity by checking your passport via webcam, performs the room scan, and monitors you throughout the test via your webcam and screen sharing. The proctor can see your screen at all times and can communicate with you via a chat box if there is an issue. You can also message the proctor if you experience technical difficulties.

The check-in process typically takes 15-25 minutes before the actual test begins. This includes identity verification, room scan, system check, and rule confirmation. Factor this time into your schedule — if your test is at 10:00 AM, the proctor session starts at 10:00 AM, and the actual test begins around 10:15-10:25 AM. See our exam day guide for more timing details.

TOEFL Home Edition Fee: Same ₹16,900

The TOEFL Home Edition costs exactly the same as the test-centre version: ₹16,900 (approximately US $205). This is a significant advantage — some other tests charge a premium for at-home versions. Your fee includes the full 4-section test, scoring on the new 1-6 band scale, score reports sent to up to 4 universities, your MyBest scores report, and results delivered within 72 hours. Additional score reports (beyond the free 4) cost approximately $20 each.

How to Register for the TOEFL Home Edition

Step 1: Create or log into your ETS account at ets.org/toefl. Step 2: Select "Register for TOEFL iBT Home Edition." Step 3: Choose your preferred date and time — slots are available 24/7, so you can pick a time when you are most alert. Step 4: Add up to 4 free university score recipients. Step 5: Pay ₹16,900 via credit card, debit card, or PayPal. Step 6: Download and install the ETS Secure Test Browser and run the ProctorU equipment check. You will receive a confirmation email with instructions for test day.

Test Day Tips for Home Edition

Before the Test

Close all unnecessary applications on your computer. Restart your computer to clear memory. Ensure your internet is stable — ask family members not to stream video or download large files during your test. Place your passport and whiteboard on your desk. Clear everything else off the desk. Close the room door. Put your phone on silent in another room. Log into the ETS Secure Browser 15 minutes before your scheduled time.

During the Test

Keep your face visible to the webcam at all times. Do not look away from the screen for extended periods — the proctor may flag this. Speak clearly during the Speaking section — your microphone is also your recording device. Use the whiteboard for notes instead of paper. If you experience any technical issue, do not panic — use the chat function to contact the proctor immediately. The proctor can pause the test while you resolve issues.

After the Test

After completing all four sections, you will see a preliminary score estimate on screen (unofficial). You can choose to send or cancel your scores at this point. Official scores are available within 72 hours in your ETS account and sent to your selected universities. Your score report shows the new 1-6 band score and (during the transition period) the old 0-120 equivalent. Understand your score report.

Troubleshooting Common Home Edition Issues

Home Edition vs Test Centre: Which Is Better?

“For students with a stable internet connection and a quiet room, the Home Edition is often the better choice — familiar environment, flexible scheduling, and no travel. But if your internet is unreliable, go to a test centre. Don't risk your score on a shaky connection.”

— Ravi Patel, Senior TOEFL Trainer, EEC

EEC Home Edition Support

EEC offers dedicated Home Edition support for all enrolled TOEFL students. This includes: (1) a full technical setup session where our team checks your computer, internet, webcam, and microphone; (2) a mock proctored test simulating the real experience; (3) a room-setup checklist and walkthrough; and (4) a troubleshooting guide for test day. Our TOEFL coaching at ₹7,500 covers the complete new TOEFL format — whether you take it at home or at a centre.

With 26 centres across Gujarat and online options nationwide, EEC ensures every student has the preparation and support they need. EEC also provides expert coaching for IELTS and PTE Academic if your university accepts multiple English tests — compare your options with our TOEFL vs IELTS guide. Combined with USA, Canada, or Germany admission counselling, EEC is your complete study abroad partner. Book a free consultation today.

EEC offers three modes of TOEFL preparation — Classroom (at 26 centres across Gujarat), Online Live (interactive Zoom sessions with the same expert trainers), and Pre-recorded (self-paced video course with 1-year access) — all at ₹7,500 all-inclusive. Whether you take the TOEFL at a test centre or via Home Edition, EEC's coaching prepares you for the same exam content.

Frequently Asked Questions