Tips on Excelling the TOEFL Exam

TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is widely used to measure the English language proficiency of non-native English speakers who plan to enroll in universities in the United States. Here are three tips that provide more information about the test, as well as advices that test-takers should not overlook:

Know the Game Plan!
First and foremost, you should familiarize yourself with the TOEFL format, so that you’d know what to expect without encountering unwanted ‘surprises’ that would potentially increase your stress level on your test day. The Internet-based Test (iBT) is gradually replacing the traditional paper-based test. The TOEFL iBT test is scored on a scale of 0 to 120 points, composing four sections (Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing) with a scaled score from 0 to 30 each. It is also important to know the expected score of your ‘dream schools.’ The minimum score for most colleges is 60, while some of the most prestige universities usually look for a score of 100 or above from their candidates.

Practice Makes Perfect!
After setting a goal for yourself on the TOEFL test, make sure you do numerous practice tests. Not only does that allow you to be more accustomed to the test format, you can also manage to complete the questions within the time limit. It is also important to make sure you answer all questions; eliminate the impossible choices and make an educated guess because you always have a 25% chance of getting the correct answer. Some test-takers also think that it could be helpful to practice your typing skills. As you will be taking the entire test on a computer, you will be required to type your essays on a computer. It would leave you more time for planning and organizing your essay if you do not need to worry about the speed and accuracy of your typing.

Make Yourself Comfortable!
Sometimes the most challenging part of TOEFL is not the test itself, but the time required to take it. It could be energy-draining as the test could take up your whole morning. With that said, make sure you have ample sleep the night before the test (in other words, don’t even try to cram for the test!). There will be a short break in the middle of the test, so feel free to bring some light snacks and water to keep yourself energized during the test.

Above all, I believe that there’s no secret to success. It is the result of determination, diligence, and discipline!