Question 1

What exactly changed with the TOEFL in 2026?

Accepted Answer

Since January 21, 2026, the TOEFL has a completely new format: it now takes about 90 minutes (instead of 2 hours), scoring is on a 1-6 scale in steps of 0.5 (instead of 0-120), and Reading and Listening are adaptive. The first ten minutes or so determine whether you move to the Harder module (max 6.0) or the Easier one (capped at 4.0). Integrated tasks (read-listen-write) have been removed. Scoring is now mostly automated.

Question 2

How much does it cost to take the TOEFL in Serbia?

Accepted Answer

The base price is around $250 USD. Rush processing is +$49, rescheduling is +$69, an extra score report is +$29. The price includes free score reports to 4 universities. The test is taken in Belgrade (International Academic Center) or in Niš, Novi Sad, and Subotica (less frequent test dates). Home Edition (from home) costs the same and gives identical results.

Question 3

What does each TOEFL score unlock for admission?

Accepted Answer

Achivr's thresholds for students from the region: 85+ unlocks most international bachelor's programs. 95+ opens mid- and higher-ranked master's programs. 100+ is the threshold where scholarships start to open up. 105-110+ unlocks top 100 universities and a real shot at a full scholarship.

Question 4

How much time do you realistically need to prepare?

Accepted Answer

An intensive 4 weeks (10-15h per week) is enough for B2+ candidates who already know the format. A standard 8 weeks (7-10h per week) covers most candidates from B1+ to B2. A comprehensive 12+ weeks is needed when you also need to build the underlying language foundation before working on the format. Group courses rarely cover the new format adequately, since the change only took effect in January 2026.

Question 5

Why is the new TOEFL harder even though it's shorter?

Accepted Answer

Because it's adaptive. Scoring is now mostly automated, and Reading and Listening adjust as you go. The first ten minutes or so determine which path the rest of the test takes, and how high a score you can even earn. If you start poorly, your score ceiling is already capped at around 4.0, no matter how the rest of the test goes. Strategies that worked before January 2026 no longer produce the same result.

Everything about the new TOEFL in 2026.