UpdatesTOEFL 2026 Scoring: How to Get 25+ on Writing
Understanding how TOEFL writing is scored gives you a competitive edge. The 2026 format uses different scoring methods for each task type. Here's the complete breakdown of how your responses are evaluated—and exactly what you need to do to reach 25+. (See the visual summary infographic at the end for a quick reference.)
Watch: TOEFL Writing Scoring Explained
Tips and tricks for maximizing your TOEFL writing score
In This Guide
How is TOEFL Writing Scored in 2026?
The TOEFL 2026 writing section uses two different scoring methods depending on the task type[1]. Understanding both is crucial for maximizing your score.
Scoring Methods by Task
Build a Sentence (4-6 items)
Binary scoring: Correct (1) or Incorrect (0). No partial credit.
Write an Email (1 task)
Rubric scoring: 0-5 scale evaluating content, format, tone, and grammar.
Academic Discussion (1 task)
Rubric scoring: 0-5 scale evaluating position, reasoning, engagement, and grammar.
Human + AI Scoring
TOEFL uses a combination of human raters and e-rater (AI) for scoring[3]. Build a Sentence is scored automatically. Email and Discussion tasks receive both human and AI scores, which are combined for final evaluation.
Build a Sentence Scoring
The Build a Sentence task uses dichotomous scoring—each item is either completely correct or incorrect[4]. There's no partial credit for "almost right" answers.
What Makes an Answer Correct?
- Grammatically accurate: Correct subject-verb agreement, word order, modifiers
- Semantically appropriate: The sentence logically answers the context question
- Complete sentence: All required words used in proper positions
| Performance | Items Correct | Impact on Score |
|---|---|---|
| Excellent | 6/6 or 5/6 | Maximum contribution to scaled score |
| Good | 4/6 | Strong contribution |
| Fair | 3/6 | Moderate contribution |
| Poor | 0-2/6 | Minimal contribution, hurts overall score |
For strategies on mastering this task, see our Build a Sentence complete guide.
Write an Email Scoring Rubric
The Write an Email task is scored on a 0-5 rubric evaluating four key dimensions[6]. Here's what each score level requires:
- • All three communicative goals accomplished with specific detail
- • Professional register and tone consistently maintained
- • Clear, logical organization with smooth flow
- • Consistent grammatical accuracy; minor errors only
- • 80-120 words with rich, relevant content
- • All three goals accomplished with adequate detail
- • Generally appropriate professional register
- • Clear organization; mostly logical flow
- • Generally accurate grammar; occasional errors don't impede meaning
- • All goals addressed but with limited development
- • Register somewhat appropriate; tone inconsistent
- • Adequate organization but may lack clarity
- • Some grammatical errors that occasionally impede meaning
- • Some goals addressed or inadequately developed
- • Register/tone often inappropriate
- • Poor organization; ideas don't flow logically
- • Frequent errors that sometimes impede meaning
- • Goals minimally addressed or missing
- • Register/tone inappropriate throughout
- • Disorganized; difficult to follow
- • Numerous errors that frequently impede understanding
Official Rubric: For the complete official ETS Write an Email scoring rubric with detailed criteria for each score level, see our Write an Email guide - Official Scoring Rubric section.
Academic Discussion Scoring Rubric
The Academic Discussion task is also scored on a 0-5 rubric, but with emphasis on peer engagement and argumentation[6]:
| Score | Position & Support | Peer Engagement | Grammar |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | Clear position with strong, well-developed support | Thoughtful engagement with both peers | Consistent control; sophisticated |
| 4 | Clear position with adequate support | Meaningful engagement with at least one peer | Generally accurate; good variety |
| 3 | Position stated with basic support | Some engagement, may be superficial | Adequate; some errors |
| 2 | Position inadequately supported | Minimal or forced engagement | Frequent errors |
| 1 | Position unclear or absent | Little or no engagement | Numerous errors |
Key Insight: Peer Engagement is Critical
Responses that don't reference the other students' points typically score 3 or below, even with excellent grammar. Always mention at least one peer by name.
Official Rubric: For the complete official ETS Academic Discussion scoring rubric with detailed criteria for each score level, see our Academic Discussion guide - Official Scoring Rubric section.
Understanding TOEFL Scoring: Task Scores, Section Scores & the 0-30 Scale
TOEFL writing uses a 3-tier scoring system[2]. Understanding how these tiers connect helps you set realistic targets and know exactly what performance level you need to achieve your goal score.
The 3-Tier Scoring System
Tier 1: Task Scores (0-5)
Each task is scored individually. Build a Sentence items are converted to a 0-5 equivalent based on items correct. Write an Email and Academic Discussion are scored directly on the 0-5 rubric.
Tier 2: Section Score (1-6)
Your task scores are averaged, then converted to a section score on a 1-6 scale. This intermediate score reflects your overall writing proficiency level.
Tier 3: Scaled Score (0-30)
The section score is converted to the final 0-30 scaled score that appears on your score report. This is the score universities see.
Key Formula
Section Score ≈ Task Average + 1 point. For example, if your task average is 4.0, your section score will typically be around 5. This relationship helps you estimate what task-level performance you need.
Score Conversion Examples
| Build a Sentence | Write an Email | Academic Discussion | Task Average (0-5) | Section Score (1-6) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 (5.0) | 4.5 | 4 | 4.5 | 5.5 |
| 10 (5.0) | 2 | 4 | 3.7 | 4.5 |
| 10 (5.0) | 3 | 4 | 4.0 | 5 |
| 8 (4.0) | 3.5 | 3.5 | 3.7 | 4.5 |
Strategic Insight
So if you need a 4.5 section score, aim for a task average around 3.5-4. Strong performance on one or two tasks can compensate for a weaker one. Focus your preparation on tasks where you can make the biggest improvements.
Try the Interactive Calculator
Enter your scores below to see your estimated TOEFL Writing section score in real-time:
TOEFL Writing Score Calculator
Enter your scores to estimate your TOEFL Writing section result
Number of correct answers (0-10)
Rubric score (0-5, decimals allowed)
Rubric score (0-5, decimals allowed)
Your Estimated Score
TOEFL Writing Score (0-30)
Task Average (0-5)
Section Score (1-6)
Minimal ability to express ideas in written English
6 Strategies to Score 25+ on TOEFL Writing
Understanding the scoring rubric is key to achieving a high TOEFL writing score
Perfect your Build a Sentence
Aim for 5-6/6 correct. Practice word order patterns daily. This task is binary—no room for error.
Follow the rubric criteria
Structure your Email and Discussion responses to address every rubric dimension: content, organization, tone, grammar.
Always engage with peers
In Academic Discussion, mention at least one student by name. This is a key scoring criterion often missed.
Use appropriate register
Professional tone for emails (Dear..., Sincerely). Academic tone for discussions. No slang or casual language.
Meet word count targets
Email: 80-120 words. Discussion: 100-150 words. Too short = insufficient development = lower score.
Proofread key sentences
Grammar errors in your opening and closing sentences hurt disproportionately. Check these carefully.
Review our 10 grammar mistakes guide to avoid common errors that cost points.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is TOEFL writing scored in 2026?
Build a Sentence uses binary scoring (correct/incorrect). Write an Email and Academic Discussion use a 0-5 rubric. All scores are combined and converted to a 0-30 scaled score.
Is TOEFL writing scored by humans or computers?
Both. Build a Sentence is scored automatically. Email and Discussion tasks are evaluated by human raters and ETS's e-rater AI system, with scores combined for reliability.
What score do I need for universities?
Most universities require 22-25+ on writing. Top programs may require 25-28+. Check your target school's specific requirements, as they vary.
Can I see my individual task scores?
Your score report shows your overall Writing section score (0-30). Individual task scores are not typically provided, though score descriptors indicate your performance level.
What's the difference between section score (1-6) and the 0-30 scale?
Individual tasks are scored on a 0-5 scale. These three scores are averaged to get your task average, which converts to a section score of 1-6. The section score is then converted to the 0-30 scale for final reporting. For example, a section score of 4.5 roughly equals 22-24 on the 0-30 scale.
Visual Summary: TOEFL Writing Scoring at a Glance
Save or bookmark this infographic for quick reference. It summarizes how your TOEFL writing score is calculated, the scoring criteria, and tips for achieving 25+.
Practice for Your Target Score
Get instant AI feedback on your writing responses. See exactly where you're losing points.
Try PracticeReferences & Further Reading
- TOEFL iBT Test Scores and Score Reports — ETS Official Website (Accessed: December 2025)
- Understanding TOEFL iBT Scores — ETS Score Users Guide (Accessed: December 2025)
- TOEFL iBT Writing Section Scoring Rubrics — ETS TOEFL Preparation (Accessed: December 2025)
- TOEFL iBT Test Content and Structure — ETS Official Website (Accessed: December 2025)
- TOEFL iBT Score Requirements for Universities — ETS Institutions Guide (Accessed: December 2025)
- TOEFL iBT Writing Section Rubrics — ETS Official Writing Rubrics (Accessed: January 2026)
- Understanding TOEFL iBT Scores — ETS Score Understanding Guide (Accessed: January 2026)
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