TOEFL Write for an Academic Discussion (2026): format, tips and an example

By the Suzu team · Updated November 1, 2026 · 1 min read · Facts from ETS

Quick answer

A professor posts a question and two classmates reply. In 10 minutes, you post your own view and support it. ETS suggests at least 100 words. It's scored 0–5.

10 minto write
100+words suggested
0–5score

Read both classmates' posts. Then add something new instead of repeating them.

How to do it well

Say your view firstOne clear sentence: agree, disagree or a middle path.
Give a reason and an exampleA short personal or real-world example works well.
Respond to a classmateName one and say why you agree or what they missed.

Example

Prompt

Professor: Should universities require every student to take a public speaking class?
Maya: Yes. Speaking well helps in every job.
Leo: No. Students should choose classes that fit their goals.

Sample post

I agree with Maya that the class should be required, but for a different reason.^view Many students are nervous about speaking, so they would never choose this class on their own.^reason My friend dreaded presentations, but after one term of short weekly talks, she volunteered to present our group project.^example Leo is right that goals differ, but almost every goal, from lab research to business, means explaining ideas to others.^reply That is why one required class is worth it.

Our own example, written to match ETS's format. It isn't an official test question.

Common mistakes

Repeating a classmate. Add a new reason or example.
No clear position. Readers should know your view after one sentence.
Running out of time. Plan for one minute, write for eight, check for one.

What ETS looks for

ETS scores how well you state and support your view, respond to others, connect your ideas, and your grammar and vocabulary.
No special knowledge is needed. The topics are open questions anyone can answer.

Source: ETS's content and structure page and Updated TOEFL iBT Test Overview.

Questions

How many words for the TOEFL Academic Discussion?

ETS suggests at least 100. Around 120 to 150 well-organized words is a comfortable target.

Do I have to mention a classmate?

It isn't required, but responding to others is part of what ETS scores, so it helps.

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