TOEFL 2026: New Writing Tasks Including Emails and Discussion Forums
ETS has announced that the TOEFL iBT will undergo its most significant transformation in years, effective January 21, 2026. The new format replaces the familiar 120-point scoring system with a 1-6 band scale aligned to the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR). Here’s what test-takers need to know to prepare.
New Writing Task Types
The Writing section has been expanded beyond the traditional integrated and independent essays. The 2026 format introduces practical writing tasks: composing brief professional emails, responding to academic discussion forum posts, and synthesizing information from multiple sources into concise summaries. These tasks reflect real-world academic communication skills.
The integrated essay remains but is shorter, and the independent essay has been replaced with a discussion forum response where you engage with other students’ viewpoints on an academic topic.
Prepare with XMocks
XMocks is building comprehensive practice materials specifically designed for the 2026 TOEFL format. Our adaptive practice tests mirror the new section-level adaptation, and our writing and speaking exercises cover all the new task types. Start your preparation today at xmocks.ai and get ready for the new TOEFL with confidence.
