I Got a 30 in on AI… But a 19 on Test Day?! 🤯🎙️ Why Your TOEFL Speaking Score Might Be Misleading

shanitoeflyogalove
Apr 4
2 min read

I know that as we practice for the TOEFL exam and continue to get scores like 23 or 24, frustration kicks in. We’ll do anything to get the score we need—using templates, AI grading tools, websites, and even recommendations from friends. However, nothing substitutes human raters and ETS’s official scoring, even with all the amazing AI developments.

Recently, some of my students have been confused about their TOEFL Speaking scores. They get a 30 from an AI scoring tool, but on test day, they end up with a 19 or 25. This inconsistency is why I wanted to write this article.

No, AI-based TOEFL Speaking scoring tools (like BestMyTest, SpeechRater, or other TOEFL AI graders) are not 100% accurate compared to ETS’s official scoring.

While AI tools can offer feedback on pronunciation, fluency, and grammar, they cannot fully replicate ETS’s human rater + AI scoring system. Here’s why:

1️⃣ ETS Uses a Unique AI + Human Rater System

TOEFL Speaking responses are scored by both human raters and AI.
AI tools available online do not use ETS’s official algorithm, so their scoring may not match TOEFL standards.

2️⃣ AI Overemphasizes Pronunciation & Fluency

AI often rewards fast, clear speech, even if the answer lacks structure or key details.
ETS scores content, coherence, and task fulfillment, not just how fast or smooth you speak.

3️⃣ AI Doesn’t Fully Understand Complex Grammar & Idea Development

AI may over-penalize small grammar mistakes but miss bigger structural issues.
ETS evaluates grammar complexity, logic, and development of ideas, which AI tools struggle to assess accurately.

4️⃣ AI Cannot Measure Task Fulfillment

ETS human raters check if you fully answer the question and develop ideas clearly.
AI tools don’t always detect missing details or weak argumentation.

✅ Should You Use AI for TOEFL Speaking Practice?

Yes! But only as a practice tool—not as a replacement for ETS scoring.

✔️ Use AI tools for checking fluency, pronunciation, and basic grammar.

❌ Do not trust AI for predicting your TOEFL Speaking score.

❌ AI scores cannot tell you if you’re ready for the real exam.

📌 The Best Way to Get an Accurate TOEFL Speaking Score

🔹 Take an official TOEFL practice test from ETS.

🔹 Use the TOEFL Speaking rubrics to evaluate your responses manu

ally.

🔹 Work with an experienced TOEFL tutor (like me!) for personalized feedback.

🔹 Compare your responses with ETS sample answers to see if they meet the official standards.

If you’re over-relying on AI for Speaking scores, remember: only ETS’s official test and human raters can give you an accurate score prediction. AI is helpful for practice, but it should never be your final score estimate.

Warmest Regards,

Prof. Shani Atkins

Founder of Atkins Tutoring & Energy Center, LLC