The TOEFL is a Test Of English As A Foreign Language, and it evaluates the ability of an individual to use and understand the English language as it’s read, written, heard, and spoken in the university classroom setting.  It give you, as well as the colleges and universities at which English is the primary language of instruction, the confidence that language will not be a barrier to your success.   Because it measures a combination of skills, you’ll be asked to demonstrate a variety of skills together.  For example, you may read a passage or listen to a lecture, and then write about what you learned.  This comprehensive exam is required by many institutions only if you are an international student or are not a permanent resident of the United States, AND English is not your first language.   As with all entrance requirements, check with your college or university to see what their preferences are.