TOEFL ITP · LEVEL 1
TOEFL ITP preparation,
section by section.
In short: TOEFL ITP Level 1 is a multiple-choice test of about two hours with 140 questions in three sections: Listening Comprehension, Structure and Written Expression, and Reading Comprehension. Total scores range from 310 to 677. Institutions use it for placement, progress, exit and programme admission.
Updated 26 October 2026 · Sources below
TOEFL ITP Level 1 at a glance
| Section | What you do | Questions | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Listening Comprehension | Short conversations, longer conversations and talks | 50 questions | 35 minutes |
| Structure and Written Expression | Complete the sentence (Structure) and find the incorrect part (Written Expression) | 40 questions | 25 minutes |
| Reading Comprehension | Academic passages: main idea, detail, vocabulary in context, reference and inference | 50 questions | 55 minutes |
Section scores: Listening 31–68, Structure and Written Expression 31–68, Reading 31–67. Total 310–677.
How the TOEFL ITP score works
Each section gets a scaled score. The total is the average of the three section scores multiplied by ten, from 310 to 677. Institutions set their own required scores, so check the number your school or programme asks for.
Why Structure and Written Expression rewards rules
This section is pure grammar under time pressure: 40 questions in 25 minutes. Structure items ask for the option that completes a sentence; Written Expression items ask which underlined part is wrong.
The same patterns come back again and again: subject–verb agreement, participle clauses, inversion after negative openers, parallel structure, verb forms after certain verbs, comparatives and word form. Learn each rule once and you can answer in seconds.
Try a Structure-style question in 10 seconds →How to prepare for the TOEFL ITP
- Set the targetGet the minimum total, and any section minimums, from your institution.
- DiagnoseDo one practice set per section and note which grammar rules and question types cost you points.
- Drill the rulesWork through Structure and Written Expression patterns daily in short sets until the rules feel automatic.
- Read and listen dailyShort academic passages and conversations, checking every wrong answer against the evidence.
- Review on a scheduleBring missed rules, words and questions back after a few days and again a week later.
- Go timedIn the final weeks, practise each section at full length under time.
TOEFL ITP questions
How long is the TOEFL ITP test?
About two hours for Level 1: 35 minutes of Listening Comprehension, 25 minutes of Structure and Written Expression, and 55 minutes of Reading Comprehension.
What is the TOEFL ITP score range?
Level 1 total scores range from 310 to 677. Listening and Structure sections are scored 31–68 and Reading 31–67.
What is the difference between TOEFL ITP and TOEFL iBT?
TOEFL ITP is an institutional, multiple-choice test of listening, grammar and reading, used by schools and programmes for placement and progress. The TOEFL iBT tests all four skills, including writing and speaking, and is widely used for university admission.
How do I improve my Structure and Written Expression score?
Learn the grammar patterns the section tests, practise them in short daily sets, and review every mistake until you can name the rule. Timed practice in the final weeks helps with the 25-minute limit.
Sources
Formats and scores can change. Always confirm the details for your test date with the test maker before you book.
Other guides: IELTS preparation guide · TOEFL iBT preparation guide
Trestle is independent practice by Qoodly. It is not affiliated with, endorsed or approved by ETS or the IELTS partners. TOEFL, TOEFL iBT and TOEFL ITP are registered trademarks of ETS. IELTS is a registered trademark of the British Council, IDP Education and Cambridge University Press & Assessment.