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This credential is accepted by thousands of universities, employers, and government agencies worldwide as a testament to an individual’s ability to communicate effectively in English.
Including your TOEFL score on your resume is a smart way to showcase your qualifications, whether you're applying for a job at an international company or submitting a college application. This guide will show you where and how to position TOEFL details on your resume for maximum impact.
Why TOEFL Matters on a Resume
TOEFL certification holds significant value for both your own language skills and your language skills and proficiency at level and academic and professional endeavors. Its importance stems from its ability to measure your own language skills and proficiency and your language skills more comprehensively. Here are key reasons why TOEFL matters:
Globally Recognized Standard:
- Over 11,000 institutions in 150+ countries accept TOEFL as proof of English proficiency. This includes prestigious universities and top-tier employers.
- Career Versatility: Whether you’re applying for a corporate role or aiming for specialized positions like a Music Teacher, TOEFL demonstrates adaptability and effective communication.
- Employability: Employers in multinational organizations prioritize candidates who can work seamlessly in diverse, English-speaking teams.
By showcasing your TOEFL score on your resume, you’re telling recruiters that you possess both the technical and soft skills needed to thrive in global environments.
Key Places to Mention TOEFL on a Resume
Your TOEFL certification can be strategically included in various sections of your resume depending on its relevance to the job or academic program you’re applying for. Here’s a detailed guide on where and how to position your TOEFL credentials effectively:
1. Profile or Summary Section
The profile or summary section is often the first thing recruiters notice on your resume. This is a great place to highlight your TOEFL certification if English language proficiency is a key qualification for the role. Including TOEFL here can immediately demonstrate your language skills, confidence and ability to work in diverse environments.
How to Include TOEFL in Your Profile:
- Write a concise statement emphasizing your TOEFL score and how it contributes to your professional or academic strengths.
- Use impactful language to highlight your ability to communicate effectively in English and work in multicultural settings.
Example:📌 Tips:
- Tailor this s ection to the job requirements, focusing on roles where strong English communication is essential.
- If you’re a s tudent, mention how TOEFL supports your ability to succeed in academic research or coursework.
2. Education or Certifications Section
This is the most natural place to include your TOEFL certification, particularly if it complements your academic background or professional qualifications. Recruiters and interview and often interview to look here for evidence of your educational achievements, so listing TOEFL prominently ensures it’s noticed.
How to Include TOEFL in Your Education Section:
- Write the full name of the certification: Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL iBT).
- Include your score, the certification date, and the expiration date.
- Place it alongside other certifications or academic qualifications.
Example:Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, University of XYZ (Graduated 2023)
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL iBT), Score: 115/120, Certified May 2023, Valid Until May 2025.
📌 Tips:
- If you have multiple certifications, organize them chronologically or by relevance to the role.
- Mention TOEFL under “Certifications” instead if you have a separate section for this.
3. Skills Section
The other language skills section is ideal for emphasizing specific capabilities language skills that your TOEFL certification validates. This is particularly useful for roles requiring strong English communication skills or international collaboration.
How to Include TOEFL in Your Skills Section:
- Highlight language-specific skills like academic writing, comprehension, or advanced communication.
- Use the term “TOEFL-certified” to add credibility to your listed skills.
Example:- Advanced English Communication (TOEFL-certified, Score: 110/120)
- Proficient in academic and professional writing
- Skilled in interpreting complex written materials
📌 Tips:
- Focus on skills directly applicable to the role, such as business communication for corporate jobs or academic writing for teaching positions.
- Pair TOEFL with other transferable skills like problem-solving or cultural adaptability to create a well-rounded skills section.
4. Languages Section
If your resume includes a dedicated “Languages” section, TOEFL certification fits naturally here. This section is particularly useful for emphasizing bilingual or multilingual language abilities alongside basic English language proficiency.
How to Include TOEFL in Your Languages Section:
- State your level of English proficiency (e.g., Advanced, Fluent, or Native-level).
- Mention your TOEFL score to provide a standardized measure of your skills.
Example:- English: Advanced Proficiency (TOEFL iBT-certified, Score: 115/120)
- Spanish: Native Speaker
- French: Intermediate (DELF B2-certified)
📌 Tips:
- Use recognized proficiency levels like “Advanced,” “Fluent,” or “Proficient” for clarity.
- Include other language certifications, such as IELTS or DELF, if applicable, to demonstrate your overall linguistic capabilities.
How to Format TOEFL Details Effectively
Clear and professional formatting is crucial when adding TOEFL to your resume. Follow these guidelines:
- Use the full form: Always write "Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)."
- Provide relevant details: Include your score, certification date, and expiration date.
- Align formatting: Ensure consistency with other sections of your resume.
Example Format:Certifications
- TOEFL iBT Certification: Score 115/120 – Valid Until May 2025
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While TOEFL is a valuable asset, its misuse on a resume can dilute its impact. Avoid these mistakes:
1. Overemphasis on TOEFL
TOEFL should support your other qualifications, not overshadow them. Strike a balance between showcasing certifications, experience, and basic language skills here.
2. Listing Outdated Scores
TOEFL scores expire after two years. Including an expired score can mislead recruiters.
3. Including Irrelevant Details
Avoid unnecessary information such as preparatory courses or test center names. Focus only on the certification and its relevance to the job.
Examples of Including TOEFL on a Resume
Here are practical examples to illustrate how TOEFL can fit into various sections:
Enhancing Your Resume Beyond TOEFL
While learning TOEFL is a valuable addition to your spoken English language skills and grammar practice,, we suggest complementing learning it with practice with other language skills, and certifications can enhance your resume’s impact and interview process.
- Critical Thinking Skills: Employers prioritize problem-solving abilities. Learn how to highlight these traits with this Critical Thinking Skills Guide.
- Soft Skills: Communication, teamwork, and cultural adaptability are highly valued in international roles.
- Additional Certifications: Industry-specific qualifications or language teaching credentials can further demonstrate expertise.
Conclusion
Including TOEFL on your resume is more than a formality—it’s a strategic step toward showcasing your readiness for international employment opportunities. By placing it thoughtfully and formatting it professionally, you can make a lasting impression on recruiters.
Remember, TOEFL is just one piece of your professional portfolio. Pair it with relevant skills, certifications, and experiences to create and present a well-rounded profile that opens doors to a world of exciting prospects for success in academia and the workplace.
