How does the Analytical Writing section differ from the TOEFL® Test of Written English (TWE)?
The TOEFL® and GRE® analytical writing measures are very different. The TOEFL TWE is not designed to measure higher levels of thinking and analytical writing, but centers instead on command of English vocabulary, grammar, spelling, and syntax. Therefore, scores on the two tests are not at all comparable. Because the TOEFL test emphasizes fundamental writing skills, the TOEFL score can supplement an analytical writing score by helping faculty determine whether a low score on the GRE analytical writing measure is due to lack of familiarity with English or lack of ability to produce and analyze logical arguments.
The TOEFL Test of Written English (TWE) and the GRE® Analytical Writing measure are very different. The TWE is not designed to measure higher levels of thinking and analytical writing, but focuses instead on command of English vocabulary, grammar, spelling, and syntax. Therefore, scores on the two tests are not at all comparable. Because the TOEFL test emphasizes fundamental writing skills, the TOEFL score can supplement an Analytical Writing score by helping faculty determine whether a low score on the GRE Analytical Writing measure is due to lack of familiarity with English or lack of ability to produce and analyze logical arguments. Information regarding test scores and international examinees is available in the TOEFL Test and Score Data Summary.
