How the test is scored

     In order to determine the scaled scores, a conversion table is used. Table 2 below is a sample TOEFL conversion table. (THIS TABLE MUST NOT BE USED FOR DETERMINING AN EXAMINEE’S SCORES. IT IS FOR ILLUSTRATION AND EXPLANATION ONLY. The actual conversion table for each form of the test does not calculate scores in “ranges,” but provides a discrete number for each raw score.) After the answer sheet is scanned and the number of correct responses determined for each section, the raw scores (number right) are converted into scaled scores.

Table 2

IIustrative Table – Converted Score Ranges

    The first column in Table 2 gives ranges of raw scores. The second, third, and fourth columns give ranges of converted scores. In the column marked “Raw Score Range,” find the range that includes the raw score for Section 1 on the examinee’s answer sheet. In the column marked Section 1, find the range of converted scores for the corresponding raw score. Write the converted score for Section 1 in the box below. Do the same for the raw scores for Sections 2 and 3.

    For example, find the converted scores for Sections 1, 2 and 3 if the raw scores are 

Section 1: raw score = 28 

Section 2: raw score = 30 

Section 3: raw score = 39     
                   
Add together the lower numbers of the three converted score ranges. --> 48 + 56 + 56 = 160

Next, add the higher numbers of the converted score ranges. ---> 49 + 58 + 58 = 165

The range of the sum of the converted scores for the three sections is 160 – 165.

Now multiply each number in this range by 10/3.

160 x 10/3 = 533.33 = 533

165 x 10/3 = 550.00 = 550

When multiplication by 10/3 results in a decimal value of .33, round down to the nearest whole number. Round up to the next highest whole number if multiplication by 10/3 results in a decimal value of .66.

The total (converted) score range is 533-550.

Taken from ITP Manual for Supervisors, ETS, 2001, p.8.