ETS increases costs of IBT in Europe:

Beginning on January 1 2025 the TOEFL iBT test will cost more in all EU nations according to the Educational Testing Service (ETS). This modification results from modifications to EU laws that mandate Value Added Tax (VAT) be applied according to the customers nation of residence Test-takers in several EU countries will consequently see significant price increases. The TOEFL iBT now costs $50 plus an additional $35 in Germany making the total cost about $324. 

The test fee has increased by $54 (to about $324) in France. The biggest increase is in Sweden where the new fee will be about $350 after an increase of $80. The TOEFL iBT is now more expensive than its rivals as a result of these changes. For example the IELTS Academic and PTE Academic tests are more reasonably priced for test-takers in France where they cost $269 and $270 respectively. We are working hard to comply with the updated regulations while continuing to provide high-quality testing services said an ETS spokesperson, adding that the tax is a new legal requirement. 

To maintain transparency the organization is actively educating test-takers about these modifications.Due to the EUs updated Place of Supply regulations which now designate the customers residence as the point of taxation for specific virtual educational services the VAT application was made. This modification is in line with the OECDs initiatives to combat company profit shifting and base erosion. The importance of affordability for test takers is emphasized by ETS which is dedicated to providing high-quality assessments and services despite the price increase.