Since January 2026 the TOEFL has been subject to notable changes that affect test format, item types and scheduling options, according to education-focused reports and guides published this spring. Outlets including Shiksha and U.S. News have compiled guides and updated date lists; students in Jordan and the wider Middle East should treat these updates as material to their application planning rather than minor edits.
What students need to do first is verify the exact changes with official ETS resources. Reports indicate the exam structure and tasks have been revised and that test-delivery windows and centre availability were updated for 2026. These changes can affect preparation strategy: study plans and practice tests designed for the pre-2026 TOEFL may not fully match the new task types or timing, so using current official practice materials is essential.
Timing matters. If you plan to apply for autumn 2026 intake, aim to sit the TOEFL by June–July 2026 so scores arrive before many summer application and scholarship deadlines; applicants for later cycles should check specific program deadlines (some postgraduate and scholarship rounds run through July–September). Also confirm whether your target universities accept the TOEFL Home Edition and whether they require a specific score reporting code or minimum band — many English-taught programs in the region typically request a TOEFL iBT score in the 80–100 range, with more competitive programs asking for 90–100+.
Practical preparation steps: 1) Check the official ETS TOEFL page for the full description of 2026 changes and download any new practice sets. 2) Book an early seat at local test centres or the Home Edition if available; test slots can fill quickly after format updates. 3) Adapt practice to the revised timing and task types, and take at least one full-length practice under timed conditions in the updated format. 4) Consider whether IELTS (which also has announced 2026 updates) or TOEFL is better for your target institutions — check country- and programme-specific policies.
Shatnawi for College Admissions and Academic Consultations can help Jordanian students interpret the new TOEFL format, select test dates, and adjust study plans to current university requirements. Our advisers can also verify which scores your chosen programmes require and assist with registration or practice scheduling. For guidance and to book a planning session contact us via WhatsApp at +962791888699 or visit shatnawiedu.com.