TOEFL vocabulary: academic words for reading and lectures
CEFR B1–C2
The TOEFL tests the English of university life. This guide shows which vocabulary matters for each section and which free lists to study first.
TOEFL iBT, created by ETS, is an English test accepted by universities in the United States and many other countries. It is taken on a computer, at a test centre or at home.
Its texts and lectures are academic — biology, history, art, psychology — and its conversations are set on campus. Strong academic vocabulary helps in every section. ETS updates the test from time to time, so check the current format and scoring on the official website.
How the exam works
- Reading
- Academic passages and short everyday texts, with questions on meaning, detail and vocabulary in context.
- Listening
- Lectures and campus conversations; you answer questions about main ideas, details and the speaker's attitude.
- Writing
- Tasks that ask you to write clearly and accurately, for example in an academic discussion or an email.
- Speaking
- Short spoken responses recorded on the computer, about familiar topics and academic content.
Topics that come up most
- Natural sciences: biology, geology, astronomy
- History and archaeology
- Art, music and literature
- Psychology and social sciences
- Business and economics
- Campus life: courses, housing, deadlines
Free word lists for this exam
Study these lists in order. Each has 25 words with meanings, example sentences and a short practice.
A four-week vocabulary plan
- Week 1
Learn 10 words a day from the TOEFL list and say each example sentence aloud.
- Week 2
Add the Academic Word List and read one short science article a day.
- Week 3
Study linking words; summarise a lecture video in five sentences.
- Week 4
Review everything due and practise timed reading with the new vocabulary.
Not sure where to start?
Take the free vocabulary level test. In about five minutes you get an estimated CEFR level and the lists to study next.
Questions about this exam
What kind of vocabulary does the TOEFL test?
Mostly academic vocabulary used across subjects — words like analyse, significant, hypothesis — plus the everyday language of campus life.
Is TOEFL vocabulary different from IELTS vocabulary?
They overlap a lot. TOEFL is more strongly academic and North American in setting; IELTS also includes everyday and work situations.
Can WordNest prepare me for the TOEFL?
WordNest helps you learn and remember the vocabulary. It is not a full TOEFL course and is not affiliated with ETS.
WordNest is not affiliated with the exam board. Formats, fees and dates change — always check the official website before you book.
Study exam vocabulary every day
Create a free account, add the lists to your decks and review a few minutes a day with spaced repetition.
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