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TOEFL Practice Online Technical Questions

What software do I need to take a test?

Software compatibility is primarily determined by the browser you are using. In order to use this site, you need to use Internet Explorer 5.01 or later. Your computer operating system should be one of the following: Windows 98, Windows NT, Windows 2000, and Windows XP. In addition, you will need Windows Media player to listen to audio files.

The TOEFL iBT Speaking Practice Test also requires the installation of an Audio Browser and requires Internet Explorer 6.0 or later. The audio browser allows you to record yourself speaking during a test, and is only loaded into memory while the test is being delivered. This software does not transfer any information from your machine, nor is it resident in memory when you are not delivering a test.

What hardware do I need to take a test?

In addition to having a computer that supports one of the required browsers, you will need to have a color monitor capable of displaying 800x600 with 32-bit color. For best results, use a 17" or larger monitor that supports 1024x768 resolution.

Will the test work over a dial-up connection?

You can take the test using a dial-up modem, but the performance will be slower. For an optimal experience tests must be taken using a broadband connection, such as DSL or a cable modem. 

I have an Apple Mac. Can I use it with Practice Online?

No, Practice Online does not support the Mac at this time.

I am concerned about my privacy. Do you use cookies?

We value your privacy! Practice Online uses session cookies to track the current test you are taking. Session cookies are deleted from your machine as soon as you close your browser. Although we may collect information through the Practice Test, it will be for research and evaluation purposes only.

Is a Microphone required for this test?

Yes, only for the iBT TOEFL Speaking Practice Test. We recommend using a headset with a non-voice activated microphone.

How do I check the Microphone?

We provide you with an easy tool to check your microphone. Go to the "check system" link on your log-in page.

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Technical Problems

If you are having trouble while accessing this site, please ensure that you are using Internet Explorer 5.01, or later. We have also listed the most common problems below to help you solve your problem.

Some of the symbols in the test are not displaying properly.

This can happen if your browser is configured to support a specific language. From your browser's view menu, select "Encoding->Auto-Select". This is the default setting for the browser. If that does not fix your problem, please contact technical support. Include in your request the type of computer and the browser version you are using.

When I try to start my test, nothing happens.

Check to see if you have a utility installed that blocks pop-up advertisements. These utilities may stop the test window from opening. If you do have a utility installed, either remove it, or turn it off while you are using the site. If you are not sure, hold the control key down when you click to start the test. Many of the utilities will temporarily turn off using this method.

I don't have a pop-up blocker enabled, and my test still won't start.

Dual monitor systems using a laptop LCD panel as an extended desktop will have a problem opening pop-up windows (which is how the test is displayed). You will need to configure the operating system to only have one active video monitor. A symptom of this problem is that the test window will show in the tasks running, but the window cannot be opened. This is an Internet Explorer limitation only.

All my navigation buttons are not appearing or my test is locking up while I am navigating.

If you have anti-virus or firewall software installed on your machine, it may be interfering with the test delivery. This software may be a stand-alone application such as Norton or may be part of your browser. Most of these packages allow you to configure them to allow access to sites you approve as safe.

My test is slow.

If you have a fast Internet connection and questions are taking more than five seconds to load, then verify that you do not have performance problems connecting to other sites. If you believe it is a problem with our site, please let us know by sending a message to technical support.

Only the first page of questions is displayed.

You probably have a caching problem. Make sure that your browser is configured to automatically check the server for the latest page. From the Internet Explorer options menu called "Tools" select "Internet Options." With the "General" tab selected, click the "Settings" button under "Temporary Internet files." Configure the software to automatically check for newer versions of stored pages. This is the default setting for the browser.

I am getting a "Content Advisor" error.

If you use Internet Explorer or AOL, then you will need to disable the content advisor to use the site. This feature is disabled by default.

I cannot find an answer. How do I contact you?

If you cannot find an answer, please contact technical support at This email address is being protected from spam bots, you need Javascript enabled to view it   and we will be happy to assist you.