Choosing the right TOEFL test center can significantly impact your exam performance. Factors such as location, transportation, facilities, and testing environment all play a crucial role. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve compiled a detailed review of the ten best TOEFL test centers in Beijing, based on equipment quality, proctoring style, and overall testing experience.

1. National Education Examinations Authority (ETS China Headquarters)

Address: Intersection of Shangdi 6th Street and Chuangye Road (formerly Luneng Technology Building)

Transportation: Take Line 13 to Shangdi Station, then transfer to Bus 521 or Zhuan 28 to Shangdi 6th Street East Station.

Test Center Details:

  • Equipment: Relatively new computers.
  • Keyboard & Mouse: Flat keyboard placed on the desk; some users report discomfort.
  • Noise Isolation: Average headphone noise cancellation. Pencils and mechanical pencils provided.
  • Proctoring: Strict adherence to ETS standards. Surveillance cameras in the waiting area. Prohibits writing during the speaking section. Proctors are friendly and help ease test-taker anxiety.

Note: Arrive early and follow the check-in sequence. Late arrivals exceeding 5 minutes will not be admitted.

2. Higher Education Press (Madian Test Center)

Address: No. 4 Dewai Street, Xicheng District

Transportation: Buses 731, Yuntong 201, Yuntong 104, 671, or 345 to Madian Station.

Accommodation: Nearby hotels available.

Test Center Details:

  • Equipment: High-quality computers with 17-inch Dell monitors.
  • Keyboard & Mouse: Comfortable ergonomic design.
  • Headphones: Large ear cups with average noise isolation.
  • Partitions: Frosted hard plastic dividers; seating is relatively close.
  • Proctoring: Relaxed atmosphere with courteous proctors.

Note: Three test rooms (C, D, E). Room C is more crowded. Air-conditioned. Three scratch papers provided (refillable). Check-in starts at 8:30 AM.

3. Ritan High School (Closed in 2014)

Former Address: Experimental Building, 5th Floor, Room 501, Guanghua Xili 4, Chaoyang District

Note: This center is no longer operational but was previously favored for its embassy-area location and accessibility.

4. Peking University Test Center

Address: Room 1258W, Computer Center, Science Building No. 1, No. 5 Yiheyuan Road, Haidian District

Transportation: Multiple bus routes or Line 4 to Peking University East Gate Station.

Test Center Details:

  • Equipment: Smooth-running Lenovo desktops with LCD monitors.
  • Keyboard & Mouse: Comfortable for typing.
  • Headphones: Average audio quality.
  • Partitions: No dividers, but spaced seating.
  • Proctoring: Friendly and lenient.

Note: Small test rooms (10–15 test-takers). Scratch paper refills allowed. Metal detectors at the entrance.

5. BRS (Beijing Royal School) Test Center

Address: No. 11 Wangfu Street, Beiqijia Town, Changping District

Test Center Details:

  • Equipment: New Dell 19-inch widescreen monitors.
  • Keyboard & Mouse: Dell 8115 keyboard (no wrist rest).
  • Headphones: Clear audio with good microphone sensitivity.
  • Partitions: High dividers for privacy.
  • Proctoring: Helpful staff; moderate supervision.

Note: Snacks and drinks provided during breaks. Five test rooms (70–80 seats each). Templates allowed during breaks.

6. Private Huijia School Test Center

Address: 2nd Floor, Animation Building, Huijia Vocational College, Chuangxin Road 20, Changping District

Test Center Details:

  • Equipment: Lenovo monitors and peripherals.
  • Headphones: Koss-branded with good isolation.
  • Proctoring: Strict rules against writing during breaks.

Note: Remote location but well-maintained facilities.

7. Beijing Foreign Studies University Test Center

Address: No. 19 North Xisanhuan Road, Haidian District

Test Center Details:

  • Equipment: Older computers with 18-inch monitors.
  • Headphones: High-quality Koss headphones.
  • Partitions: Narrow spacing with foam-reinforced dividers.
  • Proctoring: Friendly and accommodating.

8. Diplomatic Personnel Service Bureau Test Center

Address: Room 509, 3 Sanlitun Xiliu Street, Chaoyang District

Test Center Details:

  • Headphones: Subpar noise cancellation.
  • Proctoring: Strict monitoring; no watches allowed.

9. Beijing Normal University Affiliated Experimental High School

Address: North of the intersection west of Minzu Cultural Palace

Test Center Details:

  • Proctoring: Rigorous supervision.
  • Environment: Quiet location in the school’s lab building.

10. Beijing International Studies University Test Center

Address: No. 1 Dingfuzhuang Nanli, Chaoyang District

Test Center Details:

  • Equipment: New computers with LCD monitors.
  • Headphones: Koss over-ear headphones with excellent clarity.
  • Partitions: Individual cubicles.
  • Proctoring: Relaxed and supportive.

Final Considerations

When selecting a TOEFL test center, prioritize factors such as proximity, comfort, and proctoring style. This guide aims to help you identify the best option for your needs, ensuring optimal conditions for test-day success.