Study Abroad News for Pakistani Students: What Changed in 2026 (UK, Canada, Australia, USA, NZ)
A one-page briefing on every major rule change affecting Pakistani students this year — with what each one means for your plan.
Key takeaways
- From 21 January 2026 the TOEFL iBT became shorter (roughly 67–85 minutes) with multistage adaptive Reading and Listening.
- Scores are now reported on a 1–6 scale in half-point steps, with the legacy 0–120 scale also shown for a transition period.
- New task types test everyday and academic English more directly.
- Check each university’s requirement — many still list the old 0–120 scores.
TOEFL iBT is the English test most associated with US universities, and it changed substantially in January 2026. If you are planning to study in the USA, Canada or Europe and TOEFL is on your list, here is what you need to know.
What changed
Effective 21 January 2026, ETS introduced a revised TOEFL iBT:
- Shorter: total test time of roughly 67–85 minutes.
- Adaptive Reading and Listening: the test adjusts difficulty to your performance (multistage adaptive).
- New score scale: results are reported on a 1–6 scale in half-point increments, aligned with CEFR levels. For a transition period (about two years), score reports also show the legacy 0–120 scale.
- New task types: tasks such as completing words, building sentences, writing an email and listening-and-repeating are used to test practical language skills.
The four sections now
| Section | What it tests |
|---|---|
| Reading | Everyday texts and academic passages, adaptive |
| Listening | Conversations, announcements and academic talks, adaptive |
| Writing | Sentence building, email writing and academic discussion |
| Speaking | Listening and repeating, and an interview-style response |
Why it matters for you
- Score targets: universities are updating requirements. Some state both scales; others still list legacy scores. Always check the programme page or ask the admissions office.
- Timeline: the shorter format may reduce fatigue, but you still need strong accuracy across all skills.
- Preparation: old practice materials may not match the new tasks. Use updated practice sets.
Choosing between TOEFL, IELTS and others
| If you want… | Consider |
|---|---|
| USA/Canada applications | TOEFL or IELTS |
| UK visa | IELTS for UKVI, PTE UKVI or LanguageCert SELT |
| Fast, computer-only | PTE Academic |
| Cheap admission test | Duolingo (admission only) |
See our full IELTS vs PTE vs Duolingo comparison and the dedicated TOEFL preparation page.
How to prepare in 4–6 weeks
- Take a diagnostic to find your baseline.
- Learn the new task types and timing.
- Practise speaking with recordings and feedback.
- Build writing speed with short emails and academic discussion posts.
- Take full-length adaptive practice tests.
Booking tips for Pakistan
- Check whether you can test at a centre or at home.
- Book early if you have scholarship deadlines.
- Confirm that your score reports will go to every university you plan to apply to.
Need guidance?
Our counsellors confirm which test your target university and visa need, and our team prepares you for the test that fits best. Ask about TOEFL preparation or book free counselling.
Want honest advice on your profile?
Message our counsellors — we will tell you what is realistic and what to fix first.
Frequently asked questions
Is TOEFL harder after the 2026 changes?
It is different rather than harder. The test is shorter and adaptive, so questions adjust to your level. Preparation should focus on the new task types and timing.
How do I convert TOEFL scores to the new scale?
ETS provides score comparison tools and, during the transition, reports both scales. Use university requirements to set your target and confirm which scale they use.
TOEFL or IELTS for the USA?
Most US universities accept both. Choose the format that suits you and check whether your target programmes have a preference.
Abroad In Consultants editorial team. Written by our Islamabad counselling team from official sources and day-to-day experience with Pakistani applicants. Rules change often — please confirm the latest requirements with the official authority or our counsellors before acting. Last reviewed 6 October 2026.
