Tips for Successful TOEFL Preparation

The TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) test evaluates someone’s English language proficiency. Organized by the Educational Testing Service (ETS), this test covers five important stages: listening, reading, sentence structure and written expression, speaking, and writing.

Thorough preparation is essential to face the TOEFL test, especially if you aspire to work or study abroad. Here are important tips for preparing yourself for the TOEFL test to achieve the highest scores.

Read also: TOEFL Courses Jakarta: Improving English Proficiency for Academic Purposes

Tips for Successful TOEFL Preparation

1. Take TOEFL Preparation Classes

One effective step to achieve the maximum score on the TOEFL test is by taking preparation courses. While you can study independently at home, taking courses has several advantages that cannot be ignored.

Preparation courses, allow you to obtain relevant test content and lessons. Additionally, the course schedule will help you stay more organized in your studies. Direct interaction with experienced tutors or classmates is also a valuable addition. Although courses require financial investment, with determination and maximum effort, you will achieve satisfactory scores.

For those of you who still don’t know the required TOEFL scores at several top universities worldwide, which might be some of the universities you’re considering, you can see required TOEFL Score.

2. Consistency in Learning

Practice makes perfect. Whatever you’re learning, consistency in practice is the key to mastering it. The same applies to TOEFL test preparation. You need to study with discipline and consistency to achieve high scores.

A daily or weekly study schedule is something you could make. For example, focus on grammar on the first day, improve reading skills on the second day, and so on. Allocate at least 1 hour every day for studying. Not only study, but also allocate time for solving practice questions. Imagine you’re taking the TOEFL test while doing these exercises. This approach will help you be more serious and effective in utilizing study time.

3. Rich Vocabulary, Solid Grammar

Expanding your vocabulary and improving your understanding of grammar are keys to conquering TOEFL questions. Why is that? When facing the reading session, you will encounter various texts like news or articles that might use vocabulary you haven’t encountered before.

Grammar also plays an important role when facing the writing session. Good grammar helps connect every word in your sentence. Proper grammar usage is also evaluated in writing.

Additionally, the listening and reading sessions are integral parts of the TOEFL test. Questions usually consist of news or articles that might use different vocabulary from everyday English.

Therefore, it’s recommended to read more news, articles, and English literature. Note down and understand the definitions and usage of those words. Try forming sentences using those words according to the applicable grammar rules.

In essence, don’t just rely on memorization. Study and deeply understand the usage of words and grammar rules.

4. Practice Skimming or Speed Reading

TOEFL test preparation also requires practicing speed reading. During the exam, limited time forces you to read quickly. Therefore, skimming skills (finding main information) need to be practiced.

Skimming is a method of quickly reading to find the essence of a text. By mastering this technique, your reading time will be more efficient.

Read also: IELTS vs TOEFL: Choosing the Right Exam

5. Get Used to Listening to English

Apart from the reading and writing stages, the TOEFL exam also includes listening. In this stage, you will listen to conversations or explanations in English and answer related questions.

This listening stage might be challenging if you’re not accustomed to listening to native English speakers. Accent variations can make understanding difficult.

To succeed in this stage, it’s important to familiarize your ear with the sound of English. Watch English-language movies, podcasts, or music videos. With this practice, you will become more accustomed to accent variations and conversation content in English.

Want to become fluent in English but still confused about where to start learning? Well, you can begin by watching movies. Here are some movie recommendations that you can watch while learning English. Recommended movies for Learning English!

6. Practice Speaking with a Partner

Having a partner is crucial to improve speaking skills. If you’re taking a course, the tutor will be your learning partner.

If you’re not taking a course, you can practice speaking with friends who are proficient in English. Moreover, recording conversations with yourself can also be helpful.

7. Organize Key Points in the Writing Test

The writing test requires a considerable amount of time. Besides honing grammar, you need to manage your time well while writing. One trick is to create key points before writing.

With these key points, you’ll have a guide on what to write. This approach will help save time and make your writing more structured and easily understood.

Read also: TOEFL Preparation: The Complete Guide to Success in the TOEFL Exam

Type of TOEFL Exams

TOEFL exams are divided into two types, namely the Internet Based Test (IBT) and the Institutional Testing Program (ITP). Here is an explanation of each type of exam:

TOEFL IBT (Internet Based Test)

Internet Based Test (IBT) is a type of TOEFL exam conducted online using an internet connection. IBT is a new technology that replaces the Paper Based Test (PBT) and Computer Based Test (CBT). This type of exam can be referred to as the latest generation of TOEFL or Next Generation TOEFL.

Initially, the Educational Testing Service (ETS) introduced the IBT exam in 2005. In Indonesia, this exam was introduced in 2006. Besides ETS, other official institutions may also conduct this exam.

TOEFL IBT can be used for various purposes, ranging from university admissions, both domestically and internationally, to seeking employment in international companies.

TOEFL ITP (Institutional Testing Program)

TOEFL Institutional Testing Program (ITP) is a type of exam that still uses paper in its administration. This means that exam participants must fill out answer sheets with pencils.

ITP exams are organized by non-profit institutions in the United States in Jakarta, serving as the main organizers in the country. TOEFL ITP certificates are issued by ETS in Princeton, New Jersey, USA.

TOEFL ITP is usually used to measure individual abilities, continue education domestically, or apply for jobs. Sometimes, it is also used for scholarship applications, but usually only in the selection phase. If selected, scholarship providers usually request TOEFL IBT scores.

Read also: List and Fees of the Five Recommended Places to Take the TOEFL Test

Differences between TOEFL IBT and ITP

Although both are official exams, there are some differences between TOEFL IBT and ITP. Here are some of the differences:

Purpose and Function

• TOEFL IBT can be used to apply to various types of institutions, both domestically and internationally, including international companies, and for international scholarship applications.

• Meanwhile, TOEFL ITP is usually used to measure individual abilities, pursue education domestically, and seek employment.

Exam Type

• As the name suggests, the TOEFL Internet Based Test (IBT) is conducted online using a computer and an internet connection. The IBT exam covers all skills, including reading, writing, listening, and speaking.

• On the other hand, the TOEFL ITP exam still uses paper in its administration. However, it is possible that ITP may be conducted online or with remote proctoring. The ITP exam includes listening skills, structure and written expression, and reading comprehension.

Prepare yourself for the TOEFL iBT ecam and improve your English skills with the crucial online tests with high score as a goal, here.

Exam Duration

• The exam duration can vary depending on the administering institution. However, TOEFL IBT typically includes a maximum of 72 minutes for reading, 57 minutes for listening, 17 minutes for speaking, and 50 minutes for writing. There is usually a 10-minute break between these sessions. So, overall, the IBT exam takes about 3.5 hours.

• Meanwhile, TOEFL ITP includes 35 minutes for listening comprehension, 25 minutes for structure and written expression, and 55 minutes for reading comprehension.

Validity Period

Both types of TOEFL exams have the same validity period. According to the Educational Testing Service (ETS), TOEFL ITP and IBT scores are internationally recognized for two years from the date of the exam.

Cost and Fees

TOEFL IBT is much more expensive than TOEFL ITP. Generally, the cost of the ITP exam ranges from Rp400,000 to Rp600,000, while the cost of the IBT exam can reach Rp2.9 million.

Scoring

Both types of TOEFL exams do not deduct points for incorrect answers. However, there is separate scoring for the speaking and writing sections in the TOEFL IBT exam. The TOEFL IBT score range is 0 to 120, with separate scores for listening (0-30), speaking (0-30), reading (0-30), and writing (0-30). Meanwhile, the total score for TOEFL ITP ranges from 330 to 667 for all exam sections.

Required TOEFL Score  and find out the TOEFL scores expected by top universities abroad.

On the journey to success in the TOEFL test, there are several important tips that can assist test-takers in achieving their desired scores. Understanding the test structure and question formats, practicing listening, reading, speaking, and writing skills in English, as well as developing effective strategies for each test section, are crucial aspects that cannot be overlooked. Utilizing high-quality learning resources such as official guidebooks and reputable online sources can enhance preparation and confidence. Additionally, maintaining a consistent study schedule, practicing with practice questions, and seeking feedback from experts or mentors are valuable steps toward achieving optimal results.

It’s important to remember that thorough and persistent preparation is the key to succeeding in the TOEFL test. This not only improves test scores but also equips individuals with a profound English language proficiency that can be applied across various academic and professional contexts in the future. By following the tips and steps outlined in this article, prospective TOEFL test-takers are expected to approach the exam confidently and achieve remarkable accomplishments.

By implementing these seven tips, you’ll be ready to face the TOEFL test with confidence. Stay motivated in your studies, and may this information be beneficial!

FAQs

How do I register for the TOEFL exam?

You can register online through the official TOEFL website or contact designated registration centers. You’ll need to choose a location, date, and exam time according to availability.

What is the maximum TOEFL score?

The maximum score for TOEFL is 120, with each section being scored from 0 to 30.

How can I prepare for the Listening and Reading sections?

You can consistently practice listening and reading English materials. Listening to news, podcasts, and watching movies or TV shows in English can help enhance your skills.

How do I prepare for the Speaking section?

You can practice by recording yourself speaking about various topics. Try answering questions spontaneously and focus on pronunciation and sentence structure.

How do I prepare for the Writing section?

Practicing writing essays on various topics will help you prepare for this section. Make sure to have a well-structured introduction, body, and conclusion.

Are there recommended learning resources?

There are many learning resources available, including official TOEFL guidebooks, online courses, and English learning apps.

How many retakes are allowed for the TOEFL exam?

The TOEFL exam can be taken as many times as you’d like, but there is a gap in between each try. Make sure to review the TOEFL official website’s re-registration rules.

How long are TOEFL exam results valid?

TOEFL results generally remain valid for 2 years. After that, you’ll need to retake the exam if your results have expired.

Well, now you know what you need to prepare. Let’s start your TOEFL preparation to achieve a score that meets the requirements of your target universities. There are many online practice tests available on the internet, but still feeling confused? Join us now!