Simple Vishwakarma Mumbai

From streamlining the registration process to incorporating AI-driven tools like TOEFL est Ready Sachin Jain, ETS Country Manager for India, in an exclusive interaction with The Free Press Journal, shared insights into how ETS is reshaping the TOEFL experiences to meet the evolving needs of test-takers. He also addressed common perceptions about the TOEFL test, its credibility, and its global acceptance. 

FPJ: What new initiatives has ETS introduced for TOEFL test takers?

Sachin Jain: ETS has undertaken a comprehensive review of every aspect of the TOEFL test. Starting with the user experience, we've made significant changes, like reducing the registration process from 27 steps and 30 minutes to just 3 steps and 90 seconds. Another major update is that TOEFL is now the shortest English proficiency test, taking less than two hours in a single sitting.

Additionally, the score reports, which earlier took 10 days, are now delivered in 4 days. We aim to reduce this time further to just 48 hours. Test takers also receive predictive scores for reading and listening immediately after completing the test, giving them a sense of their performance.

FPJ: Why is it important to make the registration process seamless for students taking tests?

Sachin Jain: Registration should not feel like an endurance test. Today's student, especially at 17 or 18 years old, is accustomed to having things done on their phone in a few seconds. A long registration process might feel frustrating and counterproductive. The goal at the end of the day is to focus on how to prepare for and eventually take the test, rather than waste time entering in information. The feedback from the test takers reflected that the registration process needed to be made more streamlined and easier. 

FPJ: How did test-taker feedback shorten the TOEFL test time?

Sachin Jain: The decision was based on the feedback received from the test takers that they were looking for a shorter TOEFL test without trading off validity and fairness. The change came in as a response to their need, and after proper scrutiny, it ensured that there was no trade-off regarding the core objectives of the test. This adjustment reflects the importance of listening to students' feedback.

FPJ: How is ETS addressing the perception that TOEFL is tough?

Sachin Jain: We realised that we hadn’t invested much in test preparation resources. To address this, we’ve launched a free beginner’s guide specifically for South Asia and are introducing an intermediate guide in the next quarter (January–March). All test takers registering for TOEFL will receive this guide free of cost.

We’ve also launched "TOEFL Test Ready," the only AI-driven global test preparation platform. This freemium platform offers free test prep content worth ₹8,000. It personalises tasks based on the user’s target score, skills they want to improve (e.g., speaking and writing), and the timeframe they set for test preparation.

FPJ: What benefits does "TOEFL Test Ready" offer to students?

Sachin Jain: TOEFL Test Ready provides daily, personalised tasks based on the user’s timeline (e.g., 30 or 60 days). The platform offers a mix of free and paid content, with most key resources available for free. Users who prepare with TOEFL Test Ready see a minimum 5-point improvement in their scores.

FPJ: What efforts are being made to support TOEFL trainers?

Sachin Jain: ETS is investing heavily in the trainer ecosystem, especially in areas like Raigad and Aurangabad, where students rely on trainers for guidance. Recently, we conducted a pilot where trainers could take the TOEFL test for free. Trainers scoring 85 received a full refund of their test fee, and those scoring 110+ were rewarded ₹10,000. This initiative helps trainers confidently recommend TOEFL to students, addressing the misconception that TOEFL is difficult.

FPJ: What are you doing to address the perception that TOEFL is only for the US?

Sachin Jain: We are actively working to highlight that TOEFL is accepted by 13,000 universities across 160 countries, not just in the US. It’s also approved for immigration in countries like Australia. Students today apply to multiple universities across different countries, so choosing a test accepted globally is essential. A shorter, cheaper test might limit your options to a single country.

FPJ: How do study visas impact TOEFL success rates?

Sachin Jain: Yes, from anecdotal data, it would be evident that with TOEFL, they get a higher success rate by 90% of getting study visas. TOEFL focuses on four competencies upon which the visa counselors usually look; hence more reliable on the part of visa authorities.

FPJ: How does TOEFL maintain credibility amidst test ban reports?

Sachin Jain: TOEFL has never been banned outright. Even in the case of Australia’s temporary pause on our two-hour test, it was only because they considered it a new test and wanted to review it. We went through the process and got it approved again in May this year. Our credibility matters more than anything else. Australia has reduced the TOEFL score scale. A score of 76 is now considered equivalent to an IELTS 6, which was previously 80. This reflects the comprehensive nature of the TOEFL test.

FPJ: What challenges arose when reducing the TOEFL test duration?

Sachin Jain: One of the biggest challenges came from Australia: they questioned whether the version of the test was shortened but still valid and equitable. They insisted on going through a review process. This meant that, with a test that was substantially the same, more time and effort were required for reassuring universities and visa offices around the world. Somehow, it worked.

FPJ: Will other countries object to the TOEFL duration change?

Sachin Jain: While no new challenges are expected at the moment, every country has its own internal regulations and might raise concerns in the future. These situations often arise from policy changes or local requirements, as seen with Australia’s initial hesitation. However, the test's validity and fairness remain consistent, which should address any potential concerns.

FPJ: What impact do student number caps and visa rejections have?

Sachin Jain: This restriction primarily aims to reduce disguised immigration by students who opt for the study visa as a conduit to work instead of an education. Canada has put a restriction on diploma courses, and Australia has stiffened its rule on visa hopping. On the other hand, students seeking an actual undergraduate or graduate course at a decent college are not restricted in any manner. Genuine students are welcomed.

FPJ: Why are Indian students in high demand globally?

Sachin Jain: Indian students are valued for their skills in technology, innovation, and other knowledge-driven fields that are critical to the economic growth of countries like the U.S. and Canada. These economies thrive on highly skilled professionals in areas like software engineering, biotechnology, and management. Hence, Indian students are welcomed with open arms to pursue education at reputed institutions.